Of all the magical things that the Caribbean has bestowed on the world one of our favorites is the classic cigar. When coupled with, oh, let’s say a finely crafted, well aged rum, a Classic cigar is an all out luxurious assault on the senses. The feel in your hand, the smoke wafting around you head, the slight burn in your mouth a good cigar is so much more than just a smoke. It is widely acknowledged that the very best cigars in the world come from the same region that makes the best rums, so of course the two should be experienced together to help maximize their sensual affect. We also recommend trying mixing and matching different rums and cigar combinations.

San Juan’s Condado Vanderbilt hotel

On a recent trip to Puerto Rico we spent some serious quality time in the Avo Lounge at San Juan’s Condado Vanderbilt hotel. The Caribbean is the Mecca of fine cigars around the world. Starting in Cuba and expanding to locations like Honduras and The Dominican Republic, the very best cigars come from the tropical islands of the Caribbean. The art of a fine cigar is in the process of the smoking. It all started when you walk into the Avo Lounge. The rich heady aroma of fine tobacco is almost intoxicating in itself. With expert guidance and advice the choice of the perfect smoke is a drama that heightens the expectation of the smoke. The choice of cuts or punches, the smell and feel of your leather chair and the snifter of fine aged rum from the hotel bar all fill your senses with pleasure. The multitude of styles and sizes and the many quality brands that a great cigar lounge like the Avo Lounge offers means that your experience will be fulfilling and memorable.