I carried about 200 sticks with me (Diesel + variety), so having a stogie the issue. Left Texas on March 5th, return April 10th. Spent some time in S Africa on safari, then boarded a cruise in Cape Town to Monte Carlo.
I can get Cubans at home and I’ve had all I wanted along the way., so what I’m really after are African Cigars.
Interestingly, in Namibia, I picked up 50 or so Namibian Premium (air quote) cigars. At first glance I took them for cheap cigars from the Philippines. Construction was much better upon inspection so I gathered some up. Surprisingly enjoyable considering what I paid for them (about $2 to $3 a stick). Texture of the wrapper is similar to the Leaf cigar. Spices are different, distinct. They really come life about halfway in, and the blend relaxes to a soft finish.
I’m not any part of expert, but I can tell the Namibian cigars were blended with thought and purpose. It’s a very different smoke, and honestly I get the feeling effort went into making the best cigar they could with what tobacco they acquired.
It’s no 90+ rated stick, but I it’s better than I expected...
I figured I’d give some away as gifts.
I’m going to pick up any Cubans I want in Spain.
However, I’m going to the Palmero factory in Spain, and plan to fill some of the space in my travel humidor there.
Anyway, thought there might be something specific to the region someone might recommend.