Layne Cronin's idea of relaxation is one imported from the Middle East: smoking flavored Al Fakher tobacco from an elaborate water pipe at a hookah lounge. Once only found in urban areas and ethnic enclaves, the social practice has slowly been embraced in the suburbs.
"The atmosphere is really relaxing after a day of work," said Cronin, 24, of Sayreville. "You just hang out and chill with people."
Since discovering hookah lounges three years ago -- and they are all over New Jersey these days -- Cronin experiments with different tobacco flavors a few times a week. Her favorite is the "manager's special" at Mist Hookah Lounge in North Brunswick, which has names such as "On Vacation" and "Lip Smacker."
"It has a really powerful taste to them. It's just really good," she said.
