Are you pining for the sweet and sultry scent of a genuine Cuban cigar? Do you hate the fact that buying, selling, and smoking these special tobacco products might not be entirely legal in your country of residence?
It’s true that the long standing trade embargo between Cuba and the United States resembles that of a young child giving their enemy “the silent treatment” but that doesn’t mean you have to be denied the experience of trying a cigar made in this country.
Here are some tips for buying Cuban cigars so that you can finally experience what many have called .
If you’re interested in buying Cuban cigars, the first thing you have to do is realize what you’re getting yourself into. Although you may consider the trade restrictions on products made in Cuba as the remnants of outdated Cold War policy, the American government still considers them to be very real.
If you attempt to bring cigars back to the United States hidden in your luggage or other places, and they are discovered, you could face civil fines of up to $55,000 per violation and criminal prosecution, which is no laughing matter.
However, the customs department hardly has time to prosecute every ill informed tourist with a few Cohibas in their bag. In most cases the only punishment you will face is the confiscation of your cigars.
The next thing you should know about is that there are many imposters out there on the market, even in countries where the of real Cubans is completely legal. The reason for this is that many tourist attractions, like Mexico, understand that many American tourists are actively looking for cigars.
They will package up Cuban brand cigars that are actually made in other countries, and claim that they are the real thing when they’re not.
When you are buying Cuban cigars, you have to know that you’re going to have to pay for quality. Genuine Cuban cigars are priced at around $170 to $500 for a box. If you are being offered a special “deal” that is too far below this number, you’re probably getting swindled.
Always look for the made in Cuba and quality warranty seal on the package. If the box or package has already been opened, you should avoid purchasing it, as it has likely been tampered with previously.
Joe Silva is a passionate and is also an expert in cigar-making, etiquette and humidors. He has been collecting and enjoying cigars for nearly 20 years and has since been advising many cigar enthusiasts on everything from the history of Cuban cigars to choosing the right humidor for effective cigar storing. Joe also receives over a hundred enquiries everyday on .