TALLINN - Now that winter is in full swing, it is the best time of the year to truly appreciate spending time in a warm and cozy locale. After Christmas holidays is a time when not much is happening 's the night life feels a bit empty and most people are still recovering from the holidays and getting into their work schedules.
What could be better than relaxing in good company and having a pleasant after-dinner chat? This week's proposal is to spend some quality time lying down on pillows surrounded by the aromatic fog of a water pipe.
There are many discussions about the harm of smoking, and some claim that the water pipe is even more dangerous than other forms of nicotine consumption. Well, life in general is not absolutely healthy either, and considering the "fresh" air of big cities that we breathe in every day, a good hookah after a busy day will not cause any harm.
The main difference between a water-pipe and cigarettes is the tobacco used 's wet and sticky, it might be similar to the jam your grandmother used to make. After smoking, the tobacco does not turn to ashes like a cigarette, it simply dries out.
Sweet smoke consists of 95 percent water steam, thus it does not dry the throat and quickly dissolves into the air. Most of the harmful substances are cleaned by the water and filter, leaving only an incomparably pungent aroma.
There are not many places in Tallinn where it is possible to enjoy this Eastern tradition, but here are a few of the best of them.
First of all, of course, is the famous Hookah House 's a place, as can be seen from the name, designed for smoking water pipes. Light, comfortable red couches with big pillows and low tables make it possible to completely forget about life's worries. The back room has only huge pillows on the floor, which can be arranged according to taste and number of people, a great solution for large parties.
The big advantage of this place compared to others is that it serves delicious food. Its specialty is Indian cuisine, which matches with an after dinner water pipe like nothing else. Even those who are not hungry should consider ordering the traditional Indian bread, Naan, with cheese or garlic.
Then take a warm tea and choose from the prepared combinations of tobacco. Recommended is caramel with mango, accompanied by a hint of strawberry - delicious.
For a light taste of Turkish traditions, head up to Bosporus, a popular restaurant. In this special atmosphere, one can enjoy a filling dinner with an outstanding meat dish, followed up by a water pipe. Music and a thematically decorated interior will make visitors feel like they are in Istanbul, even if just for one evening.
The most modern place 's and the most popular among youth 's to enjoy the sweet puff is a lounge aptly named "Popular." Located in the very heart of the Old Town, the place has a minimalist design within a medieval cave.
Popular's specialty is water pipes only; it is not possible to get food there at all. However, it is possible to order a great coffee and enjoy chocolate-mint tobacco, together with a long and slow conversation.
Enjoy these long cold evenings, they can actually be very pleasant and warming.
