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How to Spot Fake Cuban Cigars
If you are planning a vacation to the beautiful Island of Cuba and love their cigars, then you should definitely be aware of some …
Cuban Cigar Scams
Those individuals preying on tourists and selling Counterfeit Cigars. Something that is very popular throughout this Island in the Caribbean.
We’ve traveled to Cuba a few times now, from Canada and have always loved our vacations on this island. I am always curious and concerned about tourist scams, that take place in different parts of the world.
It made me wonder if the Cuban Cigars I purchased and brought back to Canada for friends, were indeed; authentic. So I decided to dig a little further and yes, just like that real Gucci purse, you may have bought in Thailand, it is quite possible that you purchased a; fake cigar.
Let’s have a look at how, where and who to buy {Authentic Cuban Cigars} from in Cuba. Good to know, if you plan on visiting this beautiful Island in the Caribbean.
First, check out this very short video, outlining a few tips to help spot those fakes and not become a victim of … Cuban Cigar Scams.
Cuban Cigar Scams – Fake Cigars YouTube Video
Spotting Cuban Cigar Scams
Buying Cigars Off the Street – Not Recommended
As is the case with most purchases abroad, you really are taking a chance, by purchasing something, from a person directly off the street. This is also the case when people approach you and they will, trying to sell you real cheap; Cuban cigars.
That is exactly what you are buying!
These are, cheap counterfeit cigars, that most likely were made out of the country and sold to, unsuspecting tourists. So as the old saying goes for most anything …
“If it’s too good to be true, it probably isn’t!”
These cigars are so real and authentic looking these days, they can fool most. They are even in boxes and have cigar bands, that are made to look like the real ones.
Except for those individuals that truly know their cigars by; smell and taste.
Real Habanos Will Cost You Even in Cuba
For true cigar smokers wanting an {Authentic Habanos}, then be prepared to pay extra for that; “Gran Cohiba” experience.
This is the most famous of the Cuban brand and from what I have been told, the …
Finest of Cigar in the World!
My recommendation is not to buy off the street, especially if looking for higher quality brands, like the one above and/or {Monte Cristo} and other top brands.
Where To Buy Authentic Cuban Cigars
I was lucky in my purchase of a box of {Monte Cristo’s} for my friends. We booked a reputable city tour that made a stop to a; Government Controlled cigar making factory.
Outside the factory was also a government owned cigar shop, where you can purchase real, authentic cigars guaranteed and at very reasonable prices.
As well, you may be approached inside the factory to make a donation, for some freshly hand rolled cigars from certain individuals, but no guarantees!
As it turned out, when I returned home and handed over my cigars to my friends they knew, that they were the real thing. From the way they were rolled, the smell and other identifying marks, on the cigar packaging.
Facts About Habanos In Cuba
In Cuba, all cigars are referred to as; Habanos. This word in the Spanish language refers to something that has been made in {Havana, Cuba}, or in most cases, literally; Cigars.
All authentic cigars are (Government Controlled) and this branch of government, uses the same name … Habanos.
Cigars are collected by this branch from the many factories in Cuba. They are then sent to their distribution center to be exported. They are also sent to the various government owned cigar shops, located on the island.
This is a huge and profitable industry in Cuba for the government and they are trying their utmost, to banish all counterfeit cigars, from entering the country.
Cuban Cigar Scams – Check Before You Purchase
I did check afterwards with a reputable cigar outlet in Canada after returning home, from our holiday.
They and like any other reputable cigar outlets outside of Cuba, will tell you that there is, only one place in Cuba to be sure of not buying fake cigars.
You must purchase from the …
Government Stores in Towns and/or at Airports
These people will also be wearing {Official Government Uniforms}, that actually look military. You can be guaranteed of the real thing, without becoming a victim of – Cuban Cigar Scams!
They strongly suggest to; Never Purchase Your Cigars Elsewhere.
Take A Cigar Factory Tour
If visiting Cuba for the first time, I do recommend taking a tour of one of the many; authentic cigar factories. It really is amazing to watch individuals, craft these fine cigars by hand and to see the work, that goes into that fine smoke, that many people relish.
These people work hard for very little, but are happy and welcome you openly, to show off their; skill and craft in making these world renowned cigars. Carry some extra change with you and they just might roll a cigar, especially for you!
I’ve listed the Official Cuba Tourism link below. The website is filled with excellent information for planning your vacation to Cuba.
Be sure to check out the {Google Map} box at the bottom of this post for the island’s exact location.
Cuba Travel – Tourism
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Did You Know …
“About 75% Of The Population In The Caribbean Is Contained Within The 3 Islands Of … Cuba, Dominican Republic & Haiti.”
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