No. I've been smoking a long time. Initially, it had some calming effects. Now, it really doesn't do much. You get used to nicotine pretty fast. It has some benefits, but it has more negatives, especially in the long run. I call it a slow suicide. When you're just trying to get through today, then you're not thinking about tomorrow. Smoking damages the lungs and airway. It makes you more susceptible to disease by ruining the natural cleaning systems of the throat and lungs. SO, even in the short term it's not a great idea. Being around long term smokers should be enough to let anyone understand that it's a damaging habit and one that is very addictive. If I'd have gotten help when I needed it, then I might never have gotten into self medicating. At least the doctor medications generally don't come with a craving.
How does it feel? Pretty good. I'm not going to lie. But, that's the trap. It's like asking if bait on a hook tastes good. For the lucky ones, they get sick the first time and never try it again.
I don't mean to rain on anybody's parade, but this is the truth as I see it. As for that one other thing people smoke, I'd say it's roughly the same except nicotine doesn't impair function. That's also a part of why nicotine is so addictive. It can actually enhance concentration.