Good news for cigar afficionados: Yes, you can buy Cuban cigars in Aruba!
The United States embargo on Cuba does not apply to Aruba, so you can legally purchase Cuban cigars there (The embargo on Cuba began on February 7, 1962, when President Kennedy issued an executive order prohibiting all trade with Cuba, except for food and medicine.)
Keep in mind, there are some restrictions on how many cigars you can bring back into the United States. You are allowed to bring back up to $800 worth of Cuban goods, including cigars, per person per day.
You must declare all Cuban goods to customs when you return to the United States.
For a full description of what the general license authorizes and the restrictions that apply, see this page on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
Where to buy Cuban cigars in Aruba
One popular option is La Casa del Habano, which is an international chain of authorized retailers of Cuban cigars. La Casa del Habano Aruba is located in Oranjestad, along Lloyd G. Smith boulevard near the Dutch Pancake House.
Another option is to buy Cuban cigars at Cigar Emporium, conveniently located near the Aruba Cruise Terminal at the Royal Plaza Mall. This shop is a good choice if you’re visiting Aruba by cruise ship.
La Casa del Habano
La Casa del Habano in Aruba is a premier cigar shop located in the heart of Oranjestad, offering a luxurious and authentic experience for cigar aficionados and enthusiasts alike. Nestled within the Renaissance Marketplace, the shop exudes sophistication and elegance, providing a welcoming ambiance for exploring the world of Habanos, the Cuban cigar brand renowned for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Stepping into La Casa del Habano is like entering a sanctuary for cigar lovers. The shop’s carefully curated selection of Habanos cigars showcases the brand’s rich heritage and diverse range of flavors and aromas. From the iconic Cohibas to the more refined Partagas, Davidoff, and Romeo y Julieta, La Casa del Habano has something to tantalize every palate.
Beyond its extensive cigar selection, La Casa del Habano distinguishes itself with its commitment to providing an exceptional customer experience. The shop’s knowledgeable and passionate staff is dedicated to guiding guests through the world of Habanos, offering personalized recommendations and insights into the finer points of cigar appreciation. They are eager to share their expertise and ensure that each customer has a memorable encounter.
La Casa del Habano goes beyond being a mere cigar shop; it is an immersive experience that celebrates the art and culture of Habanos. The shop’s elegant décor, featuring rich mahogany accents and warm lighting, enhances the ambiance for cigar aficionados to unwind and savor their chosen smokes. A designated humidor maintains the perfect environment for preserving the delicate flavors and aromas of Habanos, ensuring that every cigar remains at its peak freshness.
The cigar shop also offers a private cigar lounge, a secluded haven where guests can relax and indulge in their passion for cigars. The lounge boasts a sophisticated atmosphere, with plush seating, a carefully curated selection of spirits and refreshments, and a state-of-the-art ventilation system that ensures a comfortable and enjoyable smoking environment.
Address: The Marketplace Aruba, Unit 7, Oranjestad, Aruba
Website: https://www.themarketplacearuba.com/directory/la-casa-del-habano
Cigar Emporium
Cigar Emporium stands is a small Mecca for cigar aficionados and enthusiasts alike. Located near the Aruba Cruise Terminal at the Royal Plaza Mall, the shop beckons with its inviting atmosphere and extensive selection of authentic Habanos cigars.
The shop’s well-appointed humidor, meticulously maintained at the ideal temperature and humidity, houses a vast array of Cuban cigars, each meticulously crafted to perfection. From the iconic Cohibas to the more subtle nuances of Montecristo, Partagas, and Romeo y Julieta, there’s a Cuban cigar to suit every palate and preference.
Beyond their extensive inventory, Cigar Emporium’s staff embodies a passion for cigars that extends beyond mere sales. Their extensive knowledge and expertise shine through in their personalized recommendations, ensuring that every customer finds the perfect cigar to match their taste and occasion. They are eager to share their insights and guide you through the world of Habanos, transforming your cigar experience into an enriching and unforgettable one.
Cigar Emporium’s commitment to excellence extends to the ambiance they cultivate. The shop’s décor exudes sophistication, with warm lighting and rich mahogany accents creating a welcoming atmosphere for cigar enthusiasts to relax and unwind. Whether you’re savoring a single cigar or indulging in a cigar and a fine spirit, Cigar Emporium provides the perfect setting to elevate your cigar experience.
Address: L.G. Smith Blvd, Oranjestad, Aruba
Website: https://www.facebook.com/cigaremporiumaruba/
Lindan Cigars
Founded in 1998, Lindan Cigars has been a steadfast purveyor of fine Cuban cigars, meticulously curating an exceptional selection that caters to every palate.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by an ambiance that exudes sophistication and warmth. The shop’s inviting décor, adorned with rich mahogany accents and warm lighting, sets the stage for an unforgettable cigar smoking experience. Amidst the walls lined with the most popular Cuban cigar brands, you’ll find a team of passionate cigar experts eager to guide you through the world of fine Cuban tobacco.
With their extensive knowledge and expertise, Lindan Cigars’ staff can expertly match your preferences to the perfect cigar, whether you’re seeking the iconic Cohibas, the refined Partagas, the rich Romeo y Julieta, or the bold Partagas. Their passion for cigars is contagious, ensuring that your visit to Lindan Cigars is an enriching and memorable one.
Beyond its exceptional selection and knowledgeable staff, Lindan Cigars fosters a sense of community among cigar enthusiasts. The shop regularly hosts events and tastings, providing opportunities to learn from experts, expand your knowledge, and connect with fellow cigar aficionados.
Address: Arawak Building, J.E. Irausquin Blvd 370, Noord, Aruba
Website: https://www.facebook.com/p/Lindancigars-100057592122307/
Things to Keep in Mind
When buying Cuban cigars in Aruba, be sure to inspect them carefully to make sure they are authentic. There are many counterfeit Cuban cigars on the market, so it is important to be able to spot the difference. Authentic Cuban cigars will have a government seal and a hologram on the band. They will also be made with high-quality tobacco leaves.
In the video below, Kevin and Julian from Victory Cigars, experts in discerning authentic Cuban cigars, offer valuable insights to help you avoid disappointment. Their tips are applicable worldwide, as fake Cuban cigars, also known as faux-hibas, have infiltrated the global market.
A few tips
* Only buy Cuban cigars from authorized retailers or duty-free shops.
* Inspect the cigars carefully for authenticity. Authentic Cuban cigars will feature a green and white warranty seal affixed to the left front side of the box, bearing a distinctive insignia depicting a shield and a hat. The upper right-hand corner of the box should exhibit a white sticker positioned diagonally, showcasing the word “Habanos” engraved prominently upon its surface. These visual cues serve as reliable indicators of authenticity, enabling discerning cigar enthusiasts to distinguish genuine Cuban cigars from counterfeits.
* Ask the seller for help if you are not sure how to spot a fake Cuban cigar known as “faux-hibas.”
* Be aware of the import restrictions for Cuban goods in your home country.