Cigar Question

[jck720]

I enjoy my cigars, and will be on the Star in April. I gather that there is a cigar lounge of some type on the ship. Do they sell Cuban cigars (or any cigars) on the ship? Anyone have any experience buying Cubans in Ocho, GC, or Cozumel? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

[chrysalis]

I enjoy my cigars, and will be on the Star in April. I gather that there is a cigar lounge of some type on the ship. Do they sell Cuban cigars (or any cigars) on the ship? Anyone have any experience buying Cubans in Ocho, GC, or Cozumel? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

...

 

absolutely no Cubans on the ship..but you can find them at each of your ports.....just be careful of fakes or cigar names you associate with Cuba but they actually are from another country...ie Cohibas from Honduras, or the DR.

[Colo Cruiser]

Cigars in Mexico and the Caribbean are some of the most conterfeited in the world especialy Cohiba. At reputable shops in the towns you generaly won't have a problem. But if you buy on the street you get what you pay for.

 

Yes the Star has a small cigar bar forward near the Princess Theater on Deck 6.

 

No Cubans on the ship and for the most part like a lot of other things the ones they do have are way overpriced so bring what you want with you.

 

I always bring a small traveldore which holds about 8 med size cigars.

 

In Santo Domingo on the Crown Princess in July I purchased 3 hand rolled cigars, I paid $10, I was leary what they would taste like and they were excellent.

 

I would not count on any cigars being Cuban unless you purchase them in Cuba. Just my opinion. :)

[Colo Cruiser]

...

 

absolutely no Cubans on the ship..but you can find them at each of your ports.....just be careful of fakes or cigar names you associate with Cuba but they actually are from another country...ie Cohibas from Honduras, or the DR.

 

 

Must have been on the same page. :D

[trabucocruiser]

If you are going to Cozumel, go to the Havana Bar at the end of the shops (located above a shop). The have a great selection, great drinks, good food, and you can sit out on the balcony with a good cigar, Cuban or otherwise, and watch the crowd below. That is relaxing.

[Mncadguy]

If you are going to Cozumel, go to the Havana Bar at the end of the shops (located above a shop). The have a great selection, great drinks, good food, and you can sit out on the balcony with a good cigar, Cuban or otherwise, and watch the crowd below. That is relaxing.

 

Yep go to the Havana Club they do have a very large selection and Cubans. You can find there web page online. Just so you know I was able to bring some back to the states by taking the lables off and placing them in wallet while going through customs. Although they never even checked what we had. And I did declare cigars on the paperwork. :) :D

[5:00_Somewhere]

We love our cigars, too, and I absolutely echo everything said above. Lots of counterfeit Cubans out there. But, there are also some good cigars at places in the ports. BTW, regardless of what everyone says, I'd avoid Churchill's on GC. Overrated and, while the humidors may look nice, they don't usually maintain them very well.

 

On the Star, itself, however, it may be another story. The Cigar/sports bar -- located as described above -- is called Shooters. When we were on last March there was an evening bartender there named Akeshe and he was actually a cigar smoker, was very knowledgable about cigars and where to get good ones on shore, and kept his little humidor in excelent condition. Probably one of my only disappointments on other ships is that most of the bartenders in the cigar bars haven't known how to maintain their humidor. Akeshe was an exception. I hope he's still there for your trip. You'll find him a treat.

 

Enjoy!!!

 

p.s. -- I usually bring my little travel humidor with me these days, as well. One word of caution: it's best to bring it aboard as a carry-on and to open it up before putting it on the belt to go through the x-ray machine. I don't know about anyone else's, but I have the cylindrical type and it looks unfortunately suspicious in x-ray images. If it's in a checked bag you will definitely have it searched and may end up with cigars all over your suitcase when you get to your destination. And, opening it when going through security will put the TSA folks at ease and help you avoid being detained. Happy trails!

[BobBeaSea]

I would not count on any cigars being Cuban unless you purchase them in Cuba. Just my opinion. :)

 

Cuban cigars are exported around the world. As others have mentioned Cuban cigars are easily purchased throughout the Caribbean but watch out for counterfeits. Deal with reputable tobacconists only. Some on this board know who they are OR do a google search OR, for sure, your ship's crew will know where to buy them. Good luck :)

[jck720]

Thanks for all of your tips. I will definitely stock my travel humidor for the trip, and go to Havana Club in Cozumel. I am aware of the rampant counterfiting of Cuban cigars. I'll try Googling cigars for the various ports. I've purchased Cuban cigars at legitimate tobacconists all over the world, and hopefully will be able to do so on our upcoming cruise.

[star gazer]

When in Maztalan, I purchase my Cohibas at Sanborn's. BTW, how does one determine if a Cuban cigar sold in Mexico is counterfeit?

[Lifes_A_Cruze]

I enjoy my cigars, and will be on the Star in April. I gather that there is a cigar lounge of some type on the ship. Do they sell Cuban cigars (or any cigars) on the ship? Anyone have any experience buying Cubans in Ocho, GC, or Cozumel? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

 

It appears you are already familiar with the magnitude of the fraud in cuban cigars. I'm not about to question your knowledge, but I'll post some information warning others who may not be fully aware of the counterfeiting.

 

Fact: 95% of all "Cubans" sold are fakes and the single nation with the most counterfeits--Cuba itself.

 

It is best to make sure you are dealing with a LCDH (La Casa De Habano) registered dealer of cuban cigars. This is one of the only worldwide companies registered to sell authentic cuban cigars, and the most trusted.

 

99% of Cubans sold in Jamaica are fake and it is one of the other leading nations in counterfeit cigars. Avoid at all cost. The only store I know of that supposedly sells authentic smokes is Cigar World owned by Rajkumar Sablani. Anything authentic on Jamaica should sell for 3x the normal cost. Even his store is questionable from time to time.

 

Your best bet is Grand Cayman. There are three well known registered dealers here. Some even work with FedEx... ;)

 

La Casa De Habano--or LCDH--Known to be more expensive but ask for "Wallace" and his best price.

 

Churchill's Cigars--typically offer more competitive prices

 

Havana House

 

Puroreys--Be sure to avoid!

 

All are very expensive. I trust LCDH and their shipping...so I've heard. ;)

 

There used to be a Great place in Cozumel. However, Wilma destroyed most of it and they supposedly moved. It was a much older woman (ex-pat) who ran the store and I'm not sure if she still does or if it's even open. I would suggest e-mailing LCDH and asking them for a registered dealer (if there is one) in Cozumel. At the moment there site no longer lists the Cozumel location in their directory.

 

http://www.lacasadelhabano.cu/mundo_i.asp

 

Here are a couple of sites which will help you to recognize if it's the Good Stuff. :)

 

http://www.cigarnexus.com/counsel/counterfeit

 

http://www.cigaraficionado.com/Cigar...,3390,,00.html

 

I'm looking forward to my upcoming stop in April--Humidor is running a little low.

[star gazer]

Thanks for the info Lifes A Cruise. I have always joked to my self about the Cuban Cigars and did not realize the extent of the fakes. In Mexico, what other fine cigars can I purchase other than Cuban that will be on the up and up?

[hughdm]

OK, I'm going to leap in here and ask a couple of probably ignorant questions. What is the difference in a Cuban cigar and others from a smoking standpoint? Are they really noticeably better? I favor a mild cigar, which probably is considered sacrilege. Are there mild Cubans?

[rebeljohn]

OK, I'm going to leap in here and ask a couple of probably ignorant questions. What is the difference in a Cuban cigar and others from a smoking standpoint? Are they really noticeably better? I favor a mild cigar, which probably is considered sacrilege. Are there mild Cubans?

 

Most, but not all, cigar lovers usually equate Cuban cigars as being the best in the world. That's not to say no other country makes good cigars, but overall, in MY opinion, Cubans have the best flavor profile. Cubans can be strong, medium, or mild.

I smoke cigars from other countries as well. Padrons from Nicarauga, and some of the Fuente products from the Dominican Republic come to mind.

But, it all boils down to what each individual cigar lover likes. Not everyone will have the same tastes.

[5:00_Somewhere]

Most, but not all, cigar lovers usually equate Cuban cigars as being the best in the world. That's not to say no other country makes good cigars, but overall, in MY opinion, Cubans have the best flavor profile. Cubans can be strong, medium, or mild.

I smoke cigars from other countries as well. Padrons from Nicarauga, and some of the Fuente products from the Dominican Republic come to mind.

But, it all boils down to what each individual cigar lover likes. Not everyone will have the same tastes.

 

Very good point. I've had some great cigars from all over the world. And I like different types of cigars depending on my mood: sometimes I want a maduro, sometimes I want a nice little torpedo and sometimes I want a churchill. I was skeptical of the raves about real Cubans ... until I went to a wedding in Toronto several years ago. You can actually buy them at any tobacconists shop there, and we got an assortment. I had several that weekend and can honestly say that, for the most part, every one of those cigars was just better than any other cigar I've had -- other than those I've had specially made or seen rolled. They tobacco just seemed more mature, less harsh, the roll was better (not necessarily tighter, but better and provided a better draw.)

 

That having been said, I have also had some very good Dominican, Nicaraguan, Honduran, etc., cigars. But, it is a treat when you get a real Cuban.

[Seagarr]

Seagarr is not just my name on CC Board it is also the name of my boat.... I do enjoy Cigars.

 

I have found Cuban tobbacco to be less harsh and the rolling techniques are far superior...."Rolled on the Thighs of Virgins" I believe is the term.

 

I wont pretend to be an expert on spotting fake cubans but will tell you that Real Cuban cigars can be found in most Mexican & Carribean Ports... I inspect the label first... believe it or not the quality of the label can be your first clue. After that it's the feel of the roll, the aroma of the tobbacco (should not have a dirt or moldy smell). Finally you may just need to buy one and try it before purchasing several... if you like it who cares if its Cuban or ot if the price is right.

 

We were on the Diamond in December, I found the cigar/sports lounge to be dissapointing. It was REALLY crowded during football games and it was to centrally located... to much random traffic. I did enjoy a seldom used sounge located under the Fusion Lounge that can only be accessed by a stairwell located at the back of the Fusion dance floor. It is called the Wakeview Bar. Of course your own Balcony is a great spot.

[Lifes_A_Cruze]

OK, I'm going to leap in here and ask a couple of probably ignorant questions. What is the difference in a Cuban cigar and others from a smoking standpoint? Are they really noticeably better? I favor a mild cigar, which probably is considered sacrilege. Are there mild Cubans?

 

I'm not normally up this late, but this dang cold is not letting me sleep. So what better way to pass time than talking stogies? :)

 

No such thing as an ignorant question, especially with regards to cigars. It's important to realize that not all counterfeits are necessarily bad smokes, just the prices don't reflect the true value of the product. Point out to the counterfeiter why they are fake and start bartering--picked up 2 for $4 in Cozumel once and both turned out to be descent. Have fun with it.

 

I really want to warn novices, or the occasional smoker from throwing money away on cheap look-a-likes. I watch many drop $10 on a supposed Cuban in Cozumel, when they just bought something rolled in the guys workshop. I know because when I was younger I made my first crucial mistake purchasing a full box in Mexico. When I returned, I couldn't wait to break open the box and consume. It wasn't until I shared my purchase at work with a true cigar aficionado I learned I'd been scammed. I swore iy wouldn't happen again, so I decided to educate myself on the topic. Unforunately, it will happen again, especially since counterfeiters have become much better. Identifying real cubans is becoming more and more difficult.

 

Comparing Cubans to "others" is like comparing a Ferrari to a Mustang. Everything about the cigar tends to be superior--tobacco growth, age, contsruction, finishing work, etc. Of course, it really comes down to your own tastes. There are many other labels I like as much as my Cubans and it's important to compare BRANDS and not so much ORIGIN. It simply depends on personal preference and the mood you are in--as others have mentioned.

 

I myself prefer a more mild smoke as well, which many Cubans are not. Honduran cigars tend to be more mild, while Nicaraguan's are often a little stronger.

 

Here is a list of what is considered Mild:

 

H.Upmann--Favorite

Ashtons--A great mild smoke and good one

Macanudos

Cuesta Rey Centennarios

Diamond Crowns--more medium

Baccarat's--sweet and very mild

Helix--good choice

Padron 2000 or 3000--never bad choice

Leon Jimenez--very falvorful and probably more mild

 

There are many more, but some of the ones I like.

 

Thanks for the info Lifes A Cruise. I have always joked to my self about the Cuban Cigars and did not realize the extent of the fakes. In Mexico, what other fine cigars can I purchase other than Cuban that will be on the up and up?

 

A new Cuban brand--Guantanamera--has just been released. It is being touted as "the best cuban cigar for a beginner." It is very mild and competitively priced. I'm looking forward to trying these. Others you might want to consider:

 

La Flor Dominicana--always a good choice

Padron 64--favorite of mine--Padrons in general are probably the best "other" cigar made outside of cuba (IMO)

Padron 2000--mentioned above but a great smoke for the price

Hemmingways--good choice

 

We really should have a Cigar forum on this board. :) A cigarpass would be fun, especially with everyone on this board making trips to the Caribbean/Mexico.

[rebeljohn]

We really should have a Cigar forum on this board. :) A cigarpass would be fun, especially with everyone on this board making trips to the Caribbean/Mexico.

 

I'll second the motion.................

[chefim]

 

H.Upmann--Favorite

Ashtons--A great mild smoke and good one

Macanudos

Cuesta Rey Centennarios

Diamond Crowns--more medium

Baccarat's--sweet and very mild

Helix--good choice

Padron 2000 or 3000--never bad choice

Leon Jimenez--very falvorful and probably more mild

 

I am with you on the Ashton, love the Cabinet VSG.

Cuesta Rey Centennarios are a great everyday smoke at a good price.

Love Diamond Crown Maduros.

 

 

There are many more, but some of the ones I like.

 

La Flor Dominicana--always a good choice

Padron 64--favorite of mine--Padrons in general are probably the best "other" cigar made outside of cuba (IMO)

Padron 2000--mentioned above but a great smoke for the price

Hemmingways--good choice

 

La Flor Dominica is a great after dinner smoke, especially after a night of Steak at one of the alternative restaurants.

 

Padron 64, I think you hit it right on the head. To me nothing better, other than a great Cuban.

 

I also love Hoyo Dark Sumatra, and Excalibur.

 

We really should have a Cigar forum on this board. :) A cigarpass would be fun, especially with everyone on this board making trips to the Caribbean/Mexico.

 

Maybe we could even have Cigar Roll Calls for a smoke and brandy in the cigar lounge.

 

Regards,

 

Chef

[Lifes_A_Cruze]

I'll second the motion.................

 

Well that makes 2 :)

 

Maybe we could even have Cigar Roll Calls for a smoke and brandy in the cigar lounge.

 

Regards,

 

Chef

 

That would be an interesting addition to these boards and something I would really enjoy. I don't really mind the CC "Meet and Mingle's" but a cigar forum would be the kind of place where many of us "guys" could chat without the ladies interferring... :D

 

Does anyone happen to have an established relationship with any of the Mods who might be able to bring this idea to fruition?

[Lifes_A_Cruze]

There used to be a Great place in Cozumel. However, Wilma destroyed most of it and they supposedly moved. It was a much older woman (ex-pat) who ran the store and I'm not sure if she still does or if it's even open. I would suggest e-mailing LCDH and asking them for a registered dealer (if there is one) in Cozumel. At the moment there site no longer lists the Cozumel location in their directory.

 

I can't believe I'm quoting myself here. Anyway, I asked a friend who knew about the cozumel situation mentioned above. Keep in mind this is all information that is from September 2005.

 

The original Havana Club, which was LCDH registered, was owned by two parties--Mimi and John (married) and Emelio. Mimi's husband did pass away in late 2005 and she was left to run the place with Emelio (a real Jerk). There was arguing over everything, from inventory, pricing, and business ethics (i.e.,selling fake goods). He is apparently very greedy.

 

Mimi left and opened Calle 17, which was closed shortly after opening. Mimi was the only registered dealer for authentic cigars. She was even supplying Emelio and his store "Havana Club." She is no longer supplying him (that we know of) and his merchandise has been called into question. The Havana Club took a terrible hit during Wilma. Most merchandise was ruined and there are rumors he has a beetle/mold issue.

 

Mimi made a comeback opening her newest store: Guantanameras. This was back in September 2005 and no one seems to know the current situation. I should hear something in the near future and will be sure to give an update.

[harwellplant]

I'll second the motion.................

how many places does a man need to discuss habanos? lmao.

 

thanks again for the heads up on this site, john.

 

for the novice habanophile, i would suggest either the rafael gonzalez or fonseca marcas. my personal favorites for sharing with experienced smokers new to havanas, however, are the el rey del mundo choix supreme or, for those who prefer stronger cigars, the ramon allones specially selected.

[dongordon]

Ashton Maduros are my favorite!

I will be trying some of the others recommended on this thread.

 

Being a cigar smoker, I'm wondering if the Crown Princess has a cigar lounge?

Can anyone provide an answer?

 

Otherwise, I'll just have to use my balcony this summer....and that's nice also!

 

Don

[Host CJSKIDS]

Ashton Maduros are my favorite!

I will be trying some of the others recommended on this thread.

 

Being a cigar smoker, I'm wondering if the Crown Princess has a cigar lounge?

Can anyone provide an answer?

 

Otherwise, I'll just have to use my balcony this summer....and that's nice also!

 

Don

 

Yes, the Crown does have a cigar lounge and it's located right in the casino. Not as nice as the ones on the other grand class ships as there isn't a bar right inside, but it is a lounge.

If you want a cocktail while in there, there's a bar right inside the casino to grab a drink and bring it in with you.

[oledave]

Is there one? Also, are there stores that sell real cubans in:

 

Antigua, Martinique, St. Lucia, and/or Grenada?

 

Thanks,

 

Oledave