Have you ever wondered what the deal is with cigars? Do you know how to light one? Is there a special way to smoke one? You're not supposed to inhale it, right? What should you do with a cigar? These are only some of the questions that a newcomer to cigars might have, and if they are questions you have, then read on, the answers are provided in the short newcomer's guide below.

How to Light a Cigar

The most fundamental part of enjoying a cigar is properly lighting it. To properly light a cigar, you need clippers that are specially made to snip the edge off of the end you're going to put in your mouth, the head. After doing this, you can light the cigar, but not with just any old lighter. Cigars should be lit with a wood match, preferably a cedar one. Cigarette lighters leave a unsavory odor and taste on the foot of a cigar that might stick around and ruin the experience. If you absolutely don't have a wooden match, you can use a butane lighter, which will leave only a minimal odor. Once you have your clipped head and match ready, strike the match and hold the foot of the cigar over the flame, drawing at the same time. You should try to avoid touching the cigar with the fire directly. Once the cigar is lit, you are ready to smoke it.

Smoking: Dos and Don'ts

While smoking your cigar, resist the urge to knock the ashes off. Just set the foot over an ashtray and let the ashes fall off naturally. This will save you from knocking the "cherry" at the end and having to re-light. You also shouldn't smoke a cigar all the way down. If you smoke a cigar to a nub, even a cigar of the highest quality, it will get bitter at the end and ruin the experience. And finally, hold a cigar between your thumb and your forefinger; otherwise you will mark yourself as a newbie, or simply someone who lacks taste.

Just Relax!

Don't be in a hurry when you're smoking a cigar. Cigars are meant to be a relaxing, calm smoking experience. This comes from their very structure and design. So when you are smoking one, savor it. The best time to do so is after you've eaten, perhaps with a nice tumbler of scotch or brandy. Sip your drink, and puff the cigar, but don't inhale completely. Cigar smoke is not supposed to enter your lungs, and if it does it can be harmful to your health. Inhaling deeply doesn't improve the flavor anyway. Finally, smoke with friends. While it may seem silly, a good cigar becomes a great cigar when smoked in the company of friends, and a great cigar, well, becomes phenomenal.