What is the difference between shisha and hookah?

A shisha and a water pipe are basically the same thing. The term "shisha" is mainly used in the Arabic world, while "water pipe" is the German term. Both terms refer to a smoking device that produces smoke filtered through water.

Here are some more details:

1. Origin and terms :
• Shisha : The word comes from Arabic (bottle) and is mainly used in countries like Egypt, Lebanon and Syria.
• Hookah : This is the literal translation of the concept into English.
2. Ingredients :
• Both typically consist of a base that is filled with water, a smoke column shaft, a head for tobacco, a hose and a mouthpiece.
3. Use :
• The tobacco is heated in the head of the shisha/water pipe (often with charcoal), and the resulting smoke is drawn through the water in the base, which cools and partially filters it.
4. Tobacco types :
• Both devices often use flavored tobacco mixed with molasses and other flavorings.

In summary, there is no real difference between a shisha and a hookah; they are two terms for the same device.