Do you want to start in the world of hookah? Between the equipment you need to acquire, the various brands, the budget, and the lighting methods, it can be confusing. This quick tutorial and its video will help you.
First of all, it is obviously necessary to have a hookah. It is best to buy one online or in a specialized shop. To start, it is not necessary to invest in an expensive hookah, but rather to take an entry-level device. Here are the other necessary items:
Aluminum or a heating system (Kaloud, Brohood...)
Water
Charcoal (preferably natural)
Hookah tobacco or hookah stones
A puncher
Optional: fruits, ice cubes, food coloring, etc.
Preparation steps
Fill the hookah vase about 2/3 full with water. This is the time to add ice cubes if you want a more "fresh" experience, or pieces of fruit, food coloring, etc. Be careful, the water should never exceed 2/3 of the vase, otherwise it may rise through the stem!
Fill the bowl with tobacco, but not too much: filling three-quarters of the bowl will be more than enough. Otherwise, the tobacco may burn or be wasted. Another alternative: hookah stones that do not contain tobacco and therefore no nicotine.
Cover the bowl with a sheet of aluminum, stretching it over the edges. Poke holes in the foil with a needle or toothpick if you do not have a hookah puncher. The smaller and more spaced out the holes, the more satisfying the experience will be. Another alternative: heating systems (Kaloud, Brohood…).
Assembling and Tasting
Close the hookah by screwing the top part onto the vase, then place the hoses while making sure everything is airtight. Light the charcoal by holding it with tongs and heating it with a source of heat (lighter, match, charcoal igniter…). Place it on the bowl and wait 1 to 2 minutes. Take several gentle puffs, then enjoy! After your session, remember to clean your hookah.