Lately, I have been receiving more and more messages from friends studying and traveling in various time zones that read something like this: “Hi Hussein, where is the best place to have shisha in [insert city here]?” During my past two and a half years at NYU Abu Dhabi, I have combined my love of travel with my passion for shisha in search of the best shisha all over the world. On some trips, I even bring my own pipe and supplies so that fantastic shisha can be had in the most hard-to-reach scenic places. As a result of these shisha-laden adventures, I can typically provide an answer to the messages I receive from my shisha-seeking friends. But for all those who could use a reference in the future, here is my list of the best shisha places across five sites in the university's global network.

Tche Tche – Khalidiya, behind Corniche Tower

This indoor café is tucked between residential buildings in Khalidiya, opposite Shish Shawerma. They make the best shisha in Abu Dhabi, hands down. It’s a quiet spot, popular with couples and people on laptops. Try their lemon-mint.

Rotana Café - 2587 Steinway St, Astoria, Queens

An Egyptian café open 24/7 in the heart of Astoria’s Arab quarter. It is far from being the most appealing establishment from the outside, but their shisha is worth the 35-minute trip to Queens from Lower Manhattan. It is particularly popular with older men in the afternoon, when Arab music is played, and younger people in the evening, when hip-hop takes over. If ordering a shisha with mint in it, ask them to make it for you in a grapefruit.

Courtesy of Hussein Karzoumi

Dar Marrakesh - 422 Edgware Road

This is a lively spot on Edgeware that is great for food, drinks and shisha. It is a popular place for groups and their bar makes it a great alternative to a night out at one of London’s many clubs. Be prepared for a unique mix of sometimes laughable music choices. I recommend the lamb tagine followed by a fruity shisha.

Courtesy of Dar Marrakesh

Sahara Cafe - 12 rue de l'Eperon, Saint-Michel/Odéon

I only stumbled onto this secluded café by following the smell of shisha from Boulevard Saint-Germain, but I was glad I did. It is a cozy place that seems to be filled with regulars. The Lebanese owner was very friendly and even gave my friend and I a ride home at the end of the evening. Perfect for a rainy Paris evening — go for the double apple.

The café is very hard to find, so here is a picture I took of the outside so I could find it again:

Courtesy of Hussein Karzoumi

Barbarossa Restaurant and Lounge – People’s Square Park

This is a quiet spot for drinks and shisha in a terrific location, perfect for when Shanghai’s sprawling metropolis becomes overwhelming. Its location right along the lake in People’s Park allows for tranquil green views from spring to fall. The interior is nicely decorated in a Moroccan style and dimly lit for a calm ambience. The menu is towards the pricier side, but definitely worth it for a group of friends.

Courtesy of Barbarossa Restaurant and Lounge