Until recently, the most popular exports from Cuba have been rum, cigars and berets. I was on board a Celestyal Cruise circumnavigating Cuba with lots of opportunity to explore. After spending a day snorkelling, beach time on Paradise Island followed where we came across locals selling simple jewelry made from shells and seeds.Black watermelon seeds, red cornilla seeds and black jaboncilla seeds will make the day for any fashionista. Unique, 100% natural and priced so inexpensively, there’s no point in bartering. If you want to add some colour to your t-shirt or sundress, this jewellery adds a natural punch to any outfit, and cheap to pick up for yourself to enjoy or take home as small easy-to-pack gifts. An afternoon walk through Old Havana with wafts of Cohiba cigars following us everywhere, so it seemed natural when our guide took us to a cigar specialty store where they were being rolled by hand. Cuban cigars need no introduction and amongst them, Cohibas are at the top, and very well-regarded among the world elite. They even make a great present for a non-smoker. I must admit to being surprised by all the women I saw smoking fat cigars.
The process of production is unique involving several stages of fermentation yielding some of the smoothest full-bodied cigars available. Keep in mind that Cohibas can only be purchased in upper-scale shops or hotels. Don’t attempt to buy them from street vendors. And remember: Cuban law only allows you up to 50 cigars in a sealed box to be taken out of the country.
For more information on Celestyal Cruises: http://yourcubacruise.com
For more information on Cohiba cigars, EXPLORE HERE.