| Even most non-cigar smokers have heard some | | | | use, large business have been fined, at |
| of the lore surrounding the Cuban cigar. Long | | | | times, for the selling or distributing of |
| revered as the finest and best tasting brands | | | | large volumes of Cuban cigars to the pubic. |
| in the world, they have traditionally been | | | | Fines are a rare occurrence, however. Many |
| extremely difficult to procure. Consequently | | | | private settings that sell Cuban cigars, such |
| there exists a very profitable market for | | | | as hotels or casinos, have experienced little |
| importing and distributing Cuban cigars to | | | | or no problems over the years. |
| cigar-lovers worldwide. There are many brands | | | | |
| of Cuban cigars available, but some of the | | | | In recent years there has been a growing |
| most well known include Coronas Especiales | | | | black market for fake Cuban cigars. Most of |
| (rumored to be one of Fidel Castro's | | | | the time, they are easy to spot because of |
| favorites) and Montecristos. | | | | their poor quality and appearance, but |
| | | | occasionally there have been Cuban imitations |
| Many people assume that the distribution of | | | | that are more difficult to regulate. The only |
| Cuban cigars on U.S. soil is illegal. The | | | | way to ensure the quality and authenticity of |
| truth of the matter is, although there are | | | | a purchase is to take proper care to go to a |
| certain restrictions placed on the importing | | | | reputable, reliable dealer of Cuban cigar |
| of cigars from Cuba, there is no outright law | | | | products. |
| forbidding their presence. Recently the | | | | |
| Department of Justice altered the original | | | | For any concerned individuals who hope to |
| embargo on Cuban products, allowing limited | | | | purchase Cuban cigars, but are worried about |
| amounts of cigars to be brought back from | | | | legal ramifications, there is little cause |
| licensed trips to Cuba. That law has since | | | | for concern. Purchasing Cuban cigars for |
| been expanded to include personal quantities, | | | | private, non-commercial use has been going on |
| up to two boxes, for personal use. | | | | for years among the most high-profile cigar |
| | | | aficionados, including politicians and movie |
| Although there is actually no law governing | | | | stars. |
| the importation of Cuban cigars for personal | | | | |