Smoking
Although most Chinese women like a man not to smoke, this practice is still quite common. Men happily go about their business with a cigarette hanging from their lips in just about every line of work.
In social circles you will more than likely be offered cigarettes – this could be from colleagues in the lift, a complete stranger on a bus or most likely, at the dinner table (before, during and after courses).
There’s no shame or dishonour in declining a smoke should one be offered, but you’ll do much better to accept one, as in China, someone’s generosity shouldn’t usually be questioned or refused. That's if you smoke of course. If you don't smoke then just say 'Wǒ bù chōuyān, xièxiè' - ('I don't smoke, thank you').
Smoking has been stamped out across China many times over but it still persists. Nowadays, in major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai it is increasingly common to have smoke-free restaurants and bars, sometimes. But in all other cities, towns and villages, smoking is as regular as drinking some tea. This is especially so when playing a street game or attending some kind of special function or festival.
You can also offer one to any women, as an increasing number of girls do smoke nowadays among young people in particular, although it is still mainly a male habit.
Cigarettes are dirt cheap. The cheapest is as low as 5RMB. The more expensive ones tend to be 50RMB or so. As a benchmark, most people in all cities go for the local smokes of choice typically costing 20-30RMB. Cigars are more difficult to find and are usually not sold in local alcohol/cigarette shops.
Never smoke on public transport. Ask a taxi driver if you can or can't smoke (if they say no, respect that) and if you pass through airport security, you must give up your lighter (there's always a lighter bin there)!
