Had a similar problem at Sale e Pepe. The lady immediately behind me lit up and held the cigarette behind her and to her back (so as not to bother her table partner)...this however put it practically under my chair. frown
I got up and walked around the business next door until she was finished. Not fun to miss enjoying my appetizer.
If I knowingly go into a place that allows smoking, then it is up to me to deal with it or not enter BUT, what you described above I do find very offensive and extremely rude. If the person wants to smoke, keep it in front of themselves, don't hold it behind or beside them where it will impact other people.
Many outdoor public places near me have banned smoking or limited the area to where smoking can take place. When one is in another country though, things are different.
