Water pipes also known as bongs are used for smocking tobacco, cannabis etc.The appearance and construction of a bong / water pipe looks like a hookah (hukkah)Water pipe smokers believe that the water in the bongs container traps the particles and also the water cooling effect of the smoke, will not harm the mouth, throat and lungs of the smoker. Though the traditional bongs were made with bamboo etc, the modern versions beautifully made are available in acrylic, ceramic and fused glass. Some locals make use and throw bongs with bamboo and coconut. Multi-chambered bongs are also available.Again there are many varieties available world over. But we have to look is its quality. Some companies use borocil glass and hence we can be rest assured. Since borocil glass is used at high temperatures while manufacturing, the products are not easily breakable while traveling etc.We can find more than one type of bong. You can find bongs with "added features" likeIce Bong, Vaporizer bong Bubblers, Shottie, g-bong/plunger etc.An ICE Bong allows you to add small ice cubes to keep the water cool.A Bubbler is a small bong where the stem is internal and the bowl is at the very topA vaporizer-bong, or "vapor-bong," uses a box-type vaporizer or heat gun to heat up the substance that is being smoked.A shottie is made with a plastic bottle.Before buying a bong, check whether using such prohibited in your area and if it is illegal to import such products. Better take a precaution to avoid your self from landing behind bars. The manufacturers / suppliers clearly warn you about this.Since they come in different shapes(all types viz. ceramic, acrylic, glass, wood) and are beautifully made, they are actually a collector's items. Even if you do not smoke, still you can buy them and decorate your home. Only thing you will have to see that buding them and keeping them in your home is not illegal in your country.The other social precaution is do not smoke in front of children and avoid making them passive smokers.