Monday, February 14 2011
Having just returned from the ProCigar Festival 2011 in Santiago, where there were cigars aplenty, I had the chance to speak with several new cigar smokers. It was my conversation with one particular "newbie" that caused me to reflect back to the time when I first got into cigars, and thus became the inspiration for this blog. The enthusiasm that new cigar smokers share amongst themselves as well as with experienced cigar smokers, is probably one of the best forms of advertising for the cigar business.
In this particular case, my new cigar-smoking friend began to learn the great pastime of enjoying a fine cigar after one was handed to him on the golf course just over two years ago. It was followed by a sampler he purchased from Famous Smoke Shop, and from there he made some box purchases based on a narrowed down list of his favorites from the pack.
Then came the catalogs with even more cigars to choose from. It was like letting the proverbial kid loose in the candy store. As with most hobbies, new cigar smokers' enthusiasm grows along with their curiosity, and in the search for their ideal smoke, they are willing to try just about anything that strikes their fancy.
Even better is, they tell their friends. In this instance, not only did the friends begin purchasing from Famous Smoke Shop, but two of them even accompanied him to the ProCigar Festival. As I spoke to them during the opening night party, they spewed off lists of cigars that they’ve discovered over the last year. As our conversation continued, they were anxious to learn everything; from my opinion on certain cigars to tips on properly conditioning their humidors.
Whether it’s taking up a sport like golf, collecting baseball cards, guitars (as is the case with some of my fellow musician friends), acquiring an appreciation for wine, etc. Whatever it may be, there's nothing like someone who jumps into a new hobby with both feet.
So here's to you "new cigar-smoking guy," cutter and lighter at the ready, and willing to go the distance.
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