Cuban Cigars

I am only a novice cigar smoker (5-6 a year) and will be traveling to ST. Maarten where cuban cigars are available. What would be a nice mild cuban cigar to purchase? thanks larry

 

Anything but a counterfeit...

Dont be fooled..
There are more real Cubans in USA than in all carribbean

 

Agree with the above. You really need to know what you are looking at to tell. There are many who also think that the quality of the Cubans, these days, has been surpassed by others.

 

First thing to watch out for is cellophane wrappers.

Cuban manufacturers don't put them on the boxes or the cigars....

 

That first toke will tell you...

Got to be leathery, woodsy taste to be Cuban..

 

I also recommend the Cohibas.

My suggestion: Find out if there is a Cohiba shop where you're going. I'm not sure about St.Maartens, but throughout the Carribean and Mexico, Cohiba runs some very elegant little shops, something like a Starbucks but nicer, where one can browse the humidor, select a few cigars, and sit down and smoke it right there in a comfortable atmosphere if he wishes.

If you find a shop with a "Cohiba" sign above the door - not necessarily just a tobacco shop with a "Cohiba" sign, but a "Cohiba" shop - you won't get ripped off by counterfeiters.

On the other hand, if a guy in cutoff jeans and no shirt approaches you on the street with a story about a "cousin" who works in the factory, your chances aren't very good.

 

There is a Habanos store on the island, head upstairs and you will be surrounded with a magnificent collection!

Try a few of various strengths and sizes to nail down what you like, they will be very helpful.

Enjoy!!