Memorial Day weekend is a holiday in which we remember the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. I think it is important that we make sure everyone remembers the true reason for this much anticipated three day break.  But it isn't just a somber time, it's a time of celebration.

I have always viewed Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial launch of summer. It's when folks head for the beaches and other tourist destinations in droves, for the first time in the new year. With that in mind, I thought it might be a good idea to talk about some prime vacation spots. Of course if I am going to talk about quality vacations, they have to involve cigars. It was recently suggested to me by our head trainer Katherine Mason that I blog about cigar destinations. What are some great places to visit with the cigar enthusiast in mind?

For those who live in Florida, there are two destinations that should be an easy drive for most. The first must-see is the JC Newman Cigar Factory and Museum in Tampa. Once known as Cigar City, Tampa now has just the JC Newman Factory still making cigars. It is a beautiful building that has been restored to its original condition. Tours are offered and smoking cigars here is encouraged. If you live in Florida and haven't been, put it on your list.

A second Florida hotspot is Miami. Not only are many of the the big cigar makers headquartered there, but what place has more cigar culture than Little Havana? Here you can smoke a great hand rolled cigar, enjoy a Cuban coffee, and spark up a friendly game of dominoes with one of the locals.

Las Vegas often gets overlooked as a cigar hot spot. It is the gaming and nightlife that take center stage, but because smoking is allowed on the gaming floors it makes for a great place to enjoy a cigar. Whether you try your luck on the roulette wheel, craps table, slot machines, or just wanna catch a game at the sports book, cigars are welcome. There just aren't many places where I live, that aren't cigar bars, that still afford one the luxury of leisurely puffing on a stogie.

If you feel like breaking out the passport and visiting some of the countries responsible for producing the tobacco as well as rolling our favorite cigars, then there are several places you can visit. The Dominican Republic is a great trip. A quick flight out of Miami puts you dead in the middle of the cigar world. The Dominican Republic, or DR as most cigar folks refer it, is also quickly becoming a world glass golf destination. With many of the world’s top golf courses located here, make sure you being along your golf sticks as well as the ones you plan to smoke. Of course you can book tours at several cigar factories, including La Flor Dominicana, La Aurora, Don Lucas, and Tabacalera de Garcia to name a few. There are also casinos here so you can satisfy your gaming itch as well.

If The Dominican Republic is too close to home and you would rather head over to Central America, then I strongly suggest a trek to Nicaragua. No one does a better job of hosting a group of cigar lovers than Drew Estate. Their Cigar Safari is a four day party that never stops. You will see every aspect of cigar production and of course will be provided all the cigars you can smoke. They will also let you blend your own and take a nice stash home with you as well. If you plan on doing the Drew Estate Cigar Safari, you need to book it early as they sellout rather quickly.

One of the factories you will visit during the Drew Estate Cigar Safari

Whether you want to stay stateside or go international, there are several great vacation options for the cigar lover. So whatever destination you choose I am certain you won't be disappointed. Just remember to check your lighter and cutter and take a spare bag so you have room for all the cigars you will come home with.

Long Ashes,

Chris Gwaltney, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits North Florida regional manager. Certified Tobacconist and Cicerone Beer Server. Follow me on Twitter @abccigarchris.