I never thought I would become a smoker. As a child, I was always taught that cigarettes were bad for you and that they could even kill you. However, as I grew older and started university, I found myself constantly surrounded by friends who smoked. Eventually, I gave in to the temptation and picked up my first cigarette.
At first, the act of smoking was just something I did to fit in with my friends. But soon, it became a habit. I would smoke when I was stressed, when I was happy, or simply just out of boredom. Before I knew it, I was a regular smoker, and I didn’t even realize how much it was affecting me.
But when I moved to the United Kingdom for work, I realized just how different the cigarette culture is here compared to where I grew up. The prevalence of smoking in the UK is much higher than in my home country, and the ways in which cigarettes are sold and marketed are also quite different. In this article, I want to take a closer look at the world of cigarettes in the UK and share some of my thoughts and experiences as a smoker living here.
The first thing that I noticed when I arrived in the UK is that cigarettes are readily available everywhere. Unlike my home country where cigarettes are only sold in designated shops, in the UK they are sold in every convenience store, supermarket, and even gas stations. This easy access to cigarettes makes it incredibly convenient for smokers to continue their habit, and even makes it tempting for non-smokers to pick up a pack.
Another thing that struck me as different in the UK was the variety of cigarette brands available. In my home country, there are only a handful of popular brands, but in the UK, there are countless options. From well-known brands like Marlboro and Camel to lesser-known ones like Mayfair and Richmond, smokers here have a wide range of choices. This variety also extends to the different types of cigarettes, such as menthol, light, and even flavored cigarettes. This variety and availability may be a testament to the popularity of smoking in the UK, but it also poses a challenge for those trying to quit. With so many options readily available, it’s easy for a smoker to just switch to a different brand instead of quitting altogether.
One thing that I find interesting about cigarettes in the UK is the packaging. Unlike in my home country where cigarettes come in plain packaging with graphic warnings, cigarettes in the UK are still sold in branded packs. While the government has introduced stricter packaging regulations in recent years, such as covering the majority of the pack with graphic health warnings, the branding and distinctive packaging of each brand is still allowed. Personally, I find this enticing packaging to be a major factor in my continued smoking. The colorful and eye-catching designs on each pack make it difficult for me to resist buying a pack, even though I know the dangers of smoking.
In terms of cost, I have to admit that cigarettes in the UK are significantly more expensive than in my home country. On average, a pack of 20 cigarettes can cost around £10, compared to the equivalent of around £5 in my home country. This price difference is mainly due to heavy taxes and regulations placed on cigarettes in the UK. While this may seem like a deterrent for smokers, it has not had a significant impact on my habit. With the addictive nature of smoking, I have found myself prioritizing buying a pack of cigarettes over other expenses.
The smoking ban that was introduced in the UK in 2007 is also worth mentioning. As a smoker, I have to admit that I was initially quite annoyed by the ban, but I have since come to appreciate it. Before the ban, smoking was allowed in most indoor places, such as bars and restaurants. This made it difficult for non-smokers to avoid second-hand smoke. Now, with the ban in place, I find myself smoking less in public places, which I believe is more considerate to those around me. However, the ban has also led to the rise of designated smoking areas, where smokers can gather and smoke together. While this does keep the smoke away from non-smokers, it also creates more opportunities for me to socialize and smoke with fellow smokers.
Despite the numerous regulations and restrictions on smoking in the UK, the number of smokers has remained relatively stable over the years. This may be due to the smoking culture that is deeply embedded in British society. From the popular pastime of smoking in pubs to the rebellious association that cigarettes have, smoking has become almost synonymous with British identity. Even among my group of friends, who are mostly non-smokers, there is still a certain level of acceptance and even a hint of admiration for those who smoke.
In conclusion, my experience as a smoker in the UK has been eye-opening. The easy accessibility, variety of brands, enticing packaging, and smoking culture make it a challenge for someone trying to quit. While the government has implemented various measures to discourage smoking, such as the smoking ban and high taxes, these have not been effective in decreasing the number of smokers. As for me, I am well aware of the health risks of smoking, but for now, I am content to enjoy my occasional cigarette, while also trying to be mindful and respectful of those around me.