Cigar shops in aruba

Today we talk about Cigar shops in aruba.

Cigar Shops in Aruba

As I arrived in Aruba, I was overwhelmed by the thought of exploring its vibrant cigar culture. The island is home to over 20 cigar shops, each offering a unique experience. With so many options, I made it my mission to visit a few key spots that truly stood out.

1. Aruba Cigar Company

Located in the heart of Oranjestad, Aruba Cigar Company houses over 150 different cigar brands, making it a go-to destination for both locals and travelers. I was particularly impressed by their collection of medium to full-bodied cigars, which cater to a range of palates. The knowledgeable staff helped me pick out a few favorites, including local Aruban brands and premium imports.

2. La Casa Del Habano Aruba

La Casa Del Habano is renowned for carrying an exclusive selection of Cuban cigars. With about 80 different varieties in stock, I felt like a kid in a candy store. The staff offered insightful recommendations based on my smoking preferences, which made my visit educational and enjoyable. Knowing I was indulging in authentic Cuban cigars elevates the experience to a whole new level.

3. The Humidor Aruba

The Humidor Aruba started in 1998 and has since become an essential stop for cigar aficionados. With over 100 premium cigars on display, including boutique brands, I discovered unique blends that piqued my interest. Their humidification system ensures every cigar is well-preserved, giving me confidence in every choice I made.

4. Sfumato Cigar Lounge

Sfumato Cigar Lounge features a sophisticated environment, hosting live music events every week. As I savored their rare selections, the ambiance transformed my smoking into a multifaceted experience. They often rotate their inventory, showcasing local and international brands, which kept my visits fresh and exciting.

5. Cigar Lounge Aruba

At Cigar Lounge Aruba, I enjoyed the plush seating and a well-curated selection of over 70 types of cigars. The staff’s attentiveness made me feel like a valued customer. While smoking a rich Maduro cigar, I learned that pairing it with a local rum heightened the experience, and I couldn’t agree more after trying it!

6. JJ’s Cigar Shop

JJ’s Cigar Shop is famous for its community-driven vibe. With fewer than 50 different brands, the focus is on quality over quantity. In a cozy atmosphere, I struck up conversations with fellow cigar lovers and discovered many hidden gems within their selection that I had never tried before.

7. I Love Hookah Aruba

While primarily a hookah spot, I Love Hookah Aruba includes cigars in its offerings. They have around 30 cigar options available, which allows me to enjoy both in a single evening. The laid-back atmosphere made it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

What to Expect at Cigar Shops

Quality Selection of Cigars

At the cigar shops in Aruba, quality is never compromised. I found that local cigar shops ensure they provide a blend of renowned international brands and local productions. The average price per cigar is around $7 to $20, depending on the brand and type, which is quite reasonable considering the premium nature of many offerings.

Expert Recommendations

The staff at these cigar shops are truly passionate about their products. Each time I visited, they eagerly provided tailored recommendations, often highlighting specific flavor profiles. For instance, I found that asking for mild options would lead them to suggest local treasures that were absolutely delightful.

Reasons to Visit Cigar Shops in Aruba

Unique Local Brands

Aruba features unique local cigar brands, such as Ronald’s and Kralendijk, which are hard to find elsewhere. Experiencing these locally produced cigars gave me insights into the rich history and craftsmanship of the island. Having over 10 local brands at various shops allowed me to explore the island’s authenticity.

Exceptional Customer Service

Each shop I visited steeped in personalized service. The staff realized customer loyalty and worked to build connections, ensuring I felt welcome. They often remembered my preferences, making every visit feel special.

Pairing Cigars with Drinks

Popular Drinks at Cigar Shops

Rum: It’s a classic pairing with Caribbean roots, enhancing the sweetness in cigars.
Whiskey: Compliments full-bodied cigars beautifully, creating rich flavor layers.
Coffee: Ideal for a morning cigar, balancing and contrasting the taste.

Recommendations for Pairings

I experimented with several pairings, but my favorite was a dark rum with a Robusto-sized cigar. The sweetness from the rum enhanced the chocolate notes in the cigar, delivering an unforgettable flavor profile.

Tips for First-Time Visitors to Cigar Shops

Understanding Cigar Terminology

Grasping basic cigar terminology can make a huge difference. Terms like “wrapper,” “ring gauge,” and “strength” are consequential, often directly impacting the selection process. Engaging with shop staff led to insightful discussions that expanded my knowledge.

Proper Cigar Smoking Etiquette

For first-time visitors, understanding cigar etiquette is crucial. I learned to take my time, savoring the smoke instead of rushing through it. It’s a social experience, so showing respect to fellow smokers and keeping an open mind makes for a more enjoyable atmosphere.

Cigar Events and Promotions in Aruba

Local Cigar Festivals

Aruba hosts annual cigar festivals that unite local and international enthusiasts, featuring tastings, workshops, and demonstrations from renowned artisans. These events can attract over 300 attendees, fostering a rich sense of community and connection.

Monthly Specials in Shops

Many cigar shops offer special promotions each month, allowing me to try premium cigars at discounted prices. For instance, I took advantage of a “buy two, get one free” deal that made for an exciting discovery of new brands.

Supporting Local Cigar Artisans

Importance of Local Cigar Production

Supporting local artisans, especially given their cultural significance, is gratifying. In Aruba, local production sustains tradition, providing livelihoods for families and maintaining the island’s heritage. Shopping local ensures that the quality and creativity flourish.

Spotlight on Local Cigar Makers

Meeting local cigar makers introduced me to the artistry behind each stick. Their stories of passion and commitment to quality greatly enhanced my experience, making my purchases feel meaningful.

Cigar Shop Accessibility

Location Info for Each Shop

All major cigar shops in Aruba are conveniently located near popular tourist attractions. For instance, Aruba Cigar Company is just a few blocks from the cruise terminal, making it a perfect stop for visitors.

Transportation Options

Transportation around Aruba is quite easy. Taxis, buses, and rental cars are readily available, allowing seamless access to various cigar shops. I enjoyed the freedom of grabbing a cab to visit different shops throughout the island.

What Travelers Are Saying About Cigar Shops

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customer feedback consistently highlights the friendly service and extensive selections at cigar shops. Many travelers are thrilled to find local brands that offer unique flavors and memorable experiences, just like I did during my visits.

Top Recommendations from Visitors

Highly recommended spots often include La Casa Del Habano for its renowned Cuban selections and The Humidor for its vast range of brands. I echo these sentiments; each shop provides a unique experience worth exploring.

Additional Cigar-Related Activities in Aruba

Participating in Cigar Tasting Events

Cigar tasting events have been a thrilling part of my Aruba adventure. I enjoyed guided tastings that introduced me to new flavors while connecting with fellow enthusiasts, reinforcing the community surrounding cigar culture.

Exploring Cigar Rolling Workshops

Attending cigar rolling workshops provided hands-on experiences that allowed me to witness the intricate process involved in creating cigars. This connection made me appreciate my next smoke even more.

FAQ

Can I buy real Cuban cigars in Aruba?

Yes, many shops, especially La Casa Del Habano, offer authentic Cuban cigars. This access showcases the robust connection between Aruba and premium cigar offerings.