Allen_Wrench
Resident Mad Scientist
Odd as it may seem, the smoking room wasn't as dangerous as you would think - not only was the room airlocked & pressurized, but it was located at the bottom of the ship. As hydrogen rises the risk was almost nonexistent: Hindenburg Smoking Room
Barely, you make a very good point. I had forgotten my basic science. I do admit, though, that if I had been there at that time, seeing a smoking lounge would have taken me aback. But you are right, it would have been far safer than it would initially seem.
And it is a shame that they fell out of favor as they did. They would make one H**L of a luxury cruise ship. Forget ocean liners, that'd be a cool way to travel (using helium of course).