The best cigar producing regions of the world

Y'all ever been hit with the urge to dive deep into the world of cigars? Well, strap yourselves in, folks, 'cause this brother from the Aye is about to take you on a wild ride through the colorful, smoky wonderland of cigar-producing regions!

First off, picture this: me, Lem Mo, a proud black man from the ATL, with a glimmer off of my shades, a stogie in my hand and libations in the other, setting out on a quest to explore the far reaches of the globe in search of the perfect puff. And let me tell you, folks, it's been one heck of an adventure!

We start our journey in the lush valleys of Cuba, where the air is thick with the scent of sweet tobacco and the sound of salsa music fills the streets. Here, in the heart of cigar country, you'll find legendary factories like Partagás and Cohiba, churning out some of the finest cigars known to man. And let me tell you, ain't nothin' quite like kickin' back with a Cohiba Robusto and letting the rhythm of Havana sweep you away.

But we ain't stoppin' there, oh no! Next up, we're jet-setting on Latam Air over to the Dominican Republic, where the sun will burn you like a muthafucka and the cigars are smooth as silk. Places like Arturo Fuente and Davidoff have put this Caribbean paradise on the map, crafting cigars that'll make your taste buds sing with joy. And let me tell ya, folks, there's nothin' quite like sittin' on a sandy beach with a glass of spiced rum in one hand and a Davidoff Millennium Blend in the other.

Now, if you're feelin' a little adventurous, we might just hop on a plane to Nicaragua, where the cigars are bold, spicy, and packed with flavor. Factories like Padron and Drew Estate are pumpin' out some seriously kickass sticks, guaranteed to set your soul on fire. And let me tell you, friends, there's nothin' quite like smokin' a Padron 1964 Anniversary Series and catching a vibe on the patio at the Nicaraguan jungles edge and listening to howler monkeys in a distance.

But enough about me, let's end this shit with a quote from, General Colin Powell, who once said, "A dream doesn't become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work." And let me tell you, folks, ain't that the truth! So go on, chase your dreams, explore the world, and never forget to savor the journey, one puff at a time.

Explore the origins and evolution of cigar smoking throughout history.

As a brother who grow up in the USA (United Streets of Atlanta,) the history of cigar smoking runs through my veins like the rhythm of a soulful Toni Braxton melody. It’s a journey that intertwines with the very fabric of my culture, connecting me to my roots and the resilience of my ancestors.

I imagine them, back in the days of old, tending to the tobacco fields under the scorching sun of Africa. Their hands worked the soil with pride, cultivating the sacred leaf that would one day find its way across the Atlantic, carried by the winds of fate and the waves of history.

In the tumultuous days of slavery, cigar smoking became more than just a pastime—it was a symbol of defiance, a way for black men to assert their humanity in the face of oppression. With each puff of smoke, they reclaimed a sense of agency, refusing to be defined by the chains that bound them.

As the years passed and freedom rang out across the land, cigar smoking evolved into a celebration of culture and community. From the jazz clubs of Harlem to the juke joints of New Orleans, it was a ritual of fellowship, where stories were shared, dreams were nurtured, and bonds were forged in smoke-filled rooms.

Today, in the bustling streets of Atlanta, cigar smoking remains a cherished tradition, a nod to the past and a celebration of the present. In the dimly lit lounges Cam Newton’s Fellaship or the Red phone booth in Buckhead and corner barbershops, patrons gather to indulge in the simple pleasure of a fine cigar, their laughter mingling with the fragrant smoke as they toast to life’s blessings.

As I take a long draw from my cigar, I can’t help but recall the words of Andre 3000, whose music echoes the fiber of Atlanta. “Smoke it like a player, puff, puff, give,” he once said, encapsulating the essence of the cigar-smoking experience… he could've been easily talking about something else. In those words, I find a mantra for life—a reminder to savor each moment, embrace each puff, and share the joy with those around me.

How do you get cigar smoke out of your clothes?

How do you get cigar smoke out of your clothes?

Listen y'all, we've all been there. You think you're just gonna have a chill night with your homeboys and suddenly you find yourself at a cigar bar, surrounded by smoke and you realize, oh snap, my favorite hoodie is gonna smell like an ashtray. But don't you worry, I've got some tips for getting that dang cigar smoke out of your clothes.

First things first, act fast! The longer the smoke stays on your clothes, the harder it's gonna be to get out. So, if you can, take your clothes off as soon as you can and put them in an airtight bag or container.

1. Use white vinegar: Fill a basin with cool water and add about a cup of white vinegar. Soak your clothes for about 30 minutes, then wash as usual. The vinegar will help neutralize the smoke odor.

2. Use baking soda: Make a paste with baking soda and water, then rub it into the affected areas. Let it sit for about 30 minutes, then wash as usual. Baking soda is great for removing odors and stains.

3. Use activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is great for removing smoke odor because it absorbs the particles that cause the odor. Put a few pieces of activated charcoal in an airtight bag with your clothes and let it sit for a few hours. Then wash as usual.

4. Use a fabric deodorizer: There are many fabric deodorizers on the market that are specifically designed to remove smoke odor. Just follow the instructions on the label.

Now, I know what you're thinking. "How the heck did I end up at the cigar bar in my favorite suit?" But sometimes life has a way of surprising us and putting us in situations we weren't exactly planning for. But that's just a part of the journey, ain't it?

And that's why, as the famous quote goes, "Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal." So, don't let the smoke get you down. Keep your eyes on your goal and keep looking forward. And, if all else fails, maybe just wear a suit you don't mind getting a little smoky the next time you end up at the cigar bar.

So, there you have it folks, my tips for getting that dang cigar smoke out of your clothes. And remember, when life gives you smoke, just shake it off and keep movin' forward.

How do I know a cigar is fresh?   

What is the difference between a cigar and a cigarette? 

How long should a cigar be aged before smoking? 

Why do cigars come in different shapes and sizes? 

How do you cut a cigar? 

What is the best way to store cigars? 

What should I look for when buying cigars? 

What are the 5 Best Cigars for Beginners.

What are the 5 Best Cigars for Beginners.

Alright y'all, I'm gonna give you the skinny on the 5 best cigars for beginners. Now, I’m no cigar snob (although I do know my stuff), but I do know what's good for someone just startin' out.

So, picture this: Last month, I take my wife on a triple date night with a few our friends to a “bougee“ cigar bar downtown. Now, my wife, she is not cigar connoisseur like myself, but she does like a good sweet tasting smoke. And let me tell you, we had a hard time findin' something that fit the bill. But we finally found the perfect one, and paired it perfectly with a nice glass of McCallan 12.

1. Romeo y Julieta 1875: This one's a classic and a household name, and it's got a nice, smooth flavor with a hint of sweetness. You can’t lose!…It's a great starter cigar.

2. Montecristo White: This one's got a nice, creamy flavor with a hint of nuttiness. If you are sassy, classy and sometimes nasty!… This stick is for you.

3. Macanudo Cafe: This one's got a nice, mild flavor with a hint of coffee and cream. Just think of Starbucks americano grande with a dash of sugar and cream….. but in the end, it might have you faded. Lol!

4. H. Upmann: This one's got a nice, smooth flavor with a hint of sweetness and a very easy smoke. It's not too strong, a nice one to try before taking the training wheels off.

5. Partagas Black Label: This Dominican beauty is a full body cigar, 90 rating, smooth flavor great aroma, with a hint of sweetness. For any newbie out there, this girl will rock your world!

Now, I ain't sayin' these are the only good cigars out there for beginners, but they're a good start. Remember, don't be afraid to try new things and experiment with different cigars and pairing them with different drinks.

And speaking of learning together, as the famous quote goes "It takes a village to raise a child", the same is true for learning, it takes a community to raise a learner. So, don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from more experienced cigar smokers. They'll be happy to drop knowledge and guide you on your journey to becoming a cigar aficionado.

So, there you have it folks, my top 5 picks for the best cigars for beginners. And let me tell you, never forget you are blessed!…. Take the time and blow one into the sky to the good life.

Check out my other topics:

How do I know a cigar is fresh?   

What is the difference between a cigar and a cigarette? 

How long should a cigar be aged before smoking? 

Why do cigars come in different shapes and sizes? 

How do you cut a cigar? 

What is the best way to store cigars? 

What should I look for when buying cigars? 

How To Smoke a cigar?

How To Smoke a cigar?

Listen up y'all, I'm gonna tell you 'bout the time I lit up my first cigar. Now, I was a recent college graduate and at that point in my life, I felt like I was well educated on all the ultimate collegiate party experiences. Surprising enough I’ve never had a cigar before. In college, I have seen many people smoke cigarettes, weed and black and milds…. but this was a whole new realm.

It was at my homeboy's bachelor party, and we was all dressed to the nines, sippin' on some top shelf, and someone pulls out a box of cigars. Now, I ain't one to shy away from trying new things (except for meth & crack, y'all best stay away from that), so I figured, why the hell not?

I go to grab one of cigars, and this old head in our group, he stops me and says, "Whoa there, youngblood. You can't just go lightin' up a cigar like it's a cigarette. It's an art form."

And damn, was he right! He showed me how to properly cut the end off of that cigar, how to toast it to a glow, how to take slow and steady puffs, and how to savor the flavor. Bro! Mind was blown.

But here's the thing, y'all. There's a few things you should never do when smoking a cigar. First of all, don't inhale the smoke like you would a cigarette. That'll just make you sick as a dog. And second, don't rush it. A cigar ain't somethin' you just puff on and be done with. It's something you take your time with, reflect on the way of the cosmos and enjoy.

And as for famous quote about taking on new experiences, I think it was ol' George Clinton who said it best: "Free your mind, and your ass will follow." 

So, there you have it folks, that's how I learned to smoke my first cigar like a boss. And let me tell you, it's been a whole new level of chill ever since.

Check out my other topics:

How do I know a cigar is fresh?   

What is the difference between a cigar and a cigarette? 

How long should a cigar be aged before smoking? 

Why do cigars come in different shapes and sizes? 

How do you cut a cigar? 

Cigar products and accessories

Cigars Accessories

Cigar Lighter Torches

Cigar Humidor 

The best lighters for a cigars?

My people, what's good y'all? It's your brother, a Black man from Atlanta, and today we're gonna talk about something near and dear to my heart: cigars. Specifically, how to light one, and what lighters are the best for smoking cigars.

Now, I know some of y'all might be thinking, "Why do I need a special lighter for cigars? Can't I just use a regular ol' Bic like I do for my cigarettes?" And to that, I say, "Ain't nothing regular about a cigar, my friend." See, a cigar is a delicate thing, and you gotta treat it with respect. That means using the right kind of lighter.

So, what are the best lighters for cigars? Well, you got your torch lighters, which are perfect for lighting up your cigar evenly and quickly. They're also great for lighting up a cigar in the wind, which is perfect for y'all who like to smoke on the golf course or on lake. Then you got your butane lighters, which are refillable and long-lasting, but they can be a bit more expensive. And finally, you got your matches, which are traditional throwbacks, but can be a bit more of a hassle to light your stick.

Personally, I prefer to use a torch lighter. Not only do they light my cigar quickly and evenly, but they also make me feel like a boss when I'm lighting up. Plus, they're the perfect accessory for when I'm out, and oozing with all the sauce.

But, as they say, "to every cigar, there is a season," and sometimes things don't go as planned. Take the time I lost my cigar lighter in Cancun, Mexico. I was on vacation, trying to enjoy a nice stick on the beach, and I couldn't find my lighter anywhere. I was about to give up and just go back to my hotel room when I met this really cool couple from Pearland, Texas. They saw me struggling and offered to help. Turns out, they had a torch lighter with them, and they let me borrow it. It was a small thing, but it made a big difference to me... And just made my day. And that's what it's all about, folks: helping each other out.

And that's why I love smoking cigars. It's not just about the cigar itself, it's about the people you meet and the connections you make. It's about lighting a flame within others and giving them positive affirmations or the juice. And that's why I always make sure to have the right lighter with me, whether I'm in Cancun, or Atlanta, or anywhere else in the world.

As the famous quote goes, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden." So go ahead, light up that cigar, and be the light that shines for others.

Check out my other topics:

How do I know a cigar is fresh?   

What is the difference between a cigar and a cigarette? 

How long should a cigar be aged before smoking? 

Why do cigars come in different shapes and sizes? 

How do you cut a cigar? 

What is the best way to store cigars? 

What should I look for when buying cigars?