Amanda Keeley Thurman, Author at Cigar & Spirits - The Gentleman's Lifestyle Magazine

THE HERE AND WOW OF NICARAGUA TRAVEL

Feb 9, 2018

NIC AT NIGHT OR DAY IS A TRAVELER’S DELIGHT

Once a hush-hush, off-the-beaten-path destination popular among audacious travelers, Nicaragua has come a long way from its complicated past and plagued image.

It has seen conquest and independence, as well as revolution, rebellion and democracy. Now, Nicaragua is seeing tourism. Coined the “New Costa Rica,” its abundance of natural wonders, prime tobacco and rich culture are attracting a vast array of travelers. Adventure seekers, beach lovers, xenophiles and cigar aficionados alike are quickly realizing that this is the place to be, making Nicaragua the new hot spot in Central America.

Cathedral de Granada

CITIES & HISTORY

GRANADA
Containing some the most beautifully preserved Spanish colonial architecture in Nicaragua, Granada is extremely photogenic. Cobblestone streets, old churches and bright colors make this a traveler’s dream. As the location of the first and largest Spanish settlement, the Iglesia de la Merced is a must see. Not only is the centuries-old façade picturesque enough, the views from the bell tower are what make this spot so popular. Granada is truly a postcard city with its vibrantly colored and intricately styled colonial buildings. One such structure is the mustard yellow Cathedral de Granada. If simply passing by and snapping photos do not quell the appetite, visitors can also take a Granada Colonial Homes Tour.

LEÓN
With Granada being the base city for many travelers, León is often and perhaps wrongly overlooked. Named after the city of León in Spain, this city is cauterized in two parts, old and new. Old León isn’t an active city as it is more of a historical site. In fact, it is Nicaragua’s only UNESCO World Heritage listing. Established in the 16th century, old León was damaged by a volcano and subsequently abandoned. Now visitors make their way tooldLeón to view the ruins of the earliest Spanish colonial settlement.

The new León was once the nation’s capital until 1857. Now, it is a bustling college town loaded with history, nightlife, restaurants and art museums. Visitors can wander through the exciting marketplace for delicious local street food, or pop into the Museo de Arte Fundación Ortiz to take in the growing art scene. The complex history of Nicaragua can be gleaned by a visit to the Museum of the Revolution, viewed in political street art, and explored through many awe-inspiring churches, such as the Catedral de León, Iglesia El Calvario, Iglesia La Recolección and Iglesia de San Juan Bautista de Subtiava.

The city of León

ESTELÍ
The heart of cigar and coffee production, Estelí is an intriguing mix of city life, agriculture and nature. During the civil war in the late 1970’s, Estelí experienced serious turmoil. Now, the third largest city in Nicaragua, it is the place to go for nature lovers and cigar enthusiasts. Home to many popular tobacco farms and cigar factories, visitors are encouraged to tour facilities to get a firsthand look at production of cigars in their entirety. Nature-seekers love it here because the city is surrounded by forests. Located in the misty mountains of Estelí are the Reserva Tisey Estanzuela and Reserva Miraflor, perfect for a day or multiday trek. Here, visitors can get a glimpse into rural Nicaraguan life, wander through lush landscapes, and visit with local farms and communities along the way.

Managua, the current capital and Nicaragua’s largest city

Catedral de Managua

MANAGUA
Managua, the, the current capital and Nicaragua’s largest city, is not popular among travelers because of the city’s chaotic vibe and lack of colonial charm. That said, Managua should not be skipped. The city is home to interesting street art and monuments, as well as the exciting Puerto Salvador Allende. Lined with restaurants, the port offers views of the lake, and is a pleasant place to take an afternoon stroll. Also, visiting Managua means easy access to some of Nicaragua’s most alluring natural wonders.

NATURE’S WONDERS

What draws many to Nicaragua is the abundance of unspoiled natural beauty. From the picturesque beaches to the active volcanoes, Nicaragua has an attractive wild side. Many of these natural wonders are easily accessible from the cities of Granada, León and Managua, making each a suitable jump-off-point for most travelers wanting to explore the countryside.

LAGO DE NICARAGUA
Lago de Nicaragua—Nicaragua Lake—can be viewed from the bell tower of Iglesia de la Merced, and is reachable from Granada. This famous freshwater lake is home to several animals normally seen in the ocean, such as sharks, tarpons and sawfish. These species became trapped inland many years ago because of lava flows, and were able to survive and adapt. The lake also is sprinkled with hundreds of islands, as well as over 350 islets, comprised of massive volcanoes and scenic beaches. Within five miles of Granada lie 300 different islands, making kayaking and boat trips to the islands a popular activity among visitors.

OMETEPE ISLAND
Ometepe is the largest island on Lago de Nicaragua, and was formed by two adjoined volcanoes, El Concepción and El Maderas. Although El Conception is still active while El Maderas is dormant, both volcanoes are open for hiking. Hiking volcanoes is a popular activity in Nicaragua, but does take some skill. El Conception is for advanced climbers and yields fantastic views of the jumbo crater. Amateur mountaineers enjoy hiking through the thick tropical jungles that cover El Maderas. The area is home to monkeys that are fun to spot.

Tourists enjoying the beach

CERRO NEGRO
León is a place of volcanos, making it a popular spot with hikers. Cerro Negro, a relatively young and active volcano, is known for volcano boarding, where hikers slide down the side of the ash-covered volcano after making their way to the top. Visitors also enjoy the volcano’s lushflora and basaltic cinder cone, which give it its black color.

MASAYA VOLCANO
Masaya is Nicaragua’s first and largest national park. Visitors can actually hike along the rim of the active Santiago crater, getting a rare opportunity to view the bubbling lava below. The volcano, which last erupted in 2008, is located just south of Managua, and was built from lava flows, resulting in some awesome underground tunnels great for exploring. The night tour provides the best chance to see glowing lava and local bats that call these tunnels home.

Laguna de Apoyo

LAGUNA DE APOYO
Located between Masaya and Granada, this lagoon is a crater lake. Part of a nature reserve, it contains over 500 species of plants and 65 species of birds. Though not as popular as Lago de Nicaragua, the lagoon provides visitors a chance to relax, enjoy the dark sand beaches, bird watch, hike and swim. Swimmers say that the volcanic minerals in the lagoon do wonders for the skin.

SAN JUAN DEL SUR
San Juan Del Sur is the most popular beach in Nicaragua. Although all the beaches in Nicaragua are Instagram fabulous, this crescent-shaped shoreline with its sparkling waters is known for its great surf. Not only do families, travelers and locals love this beach, surfers flock here for a chance to ride the waves of San Juan Del Sur. Lined with exciting beach bars, the party

continues long after the sunscreen has faded. Standing watch over San Juan Del Sure is the world’s second-largest statue of Jesus, Christ of Mercy, only a bit smaller than the renowned Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil.

CORN ISLANDS
The Big Corn and Little Corn Islands are located off the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua. Although both islands offer a relaxing reprieve from the bustling cities and wild adventures of the popular sites, Little Corn is the most rural with lush jungles, zero cars and only some electricity. Hosting only a few resorts and amenities, Little Corn is the place where a surprising amount of travelers seek solace. Getting to Little Corn means flying to Big Corn first from Managua, and then taking a ferry to the smaller island. Big Corn offers more restaurants, accommodations, taxis and ATMs, but it too is very rustic compared to the mainland. The main source of income on the Corn Islands is coconut production, but commercial fishing is growing quickly. Both islands are great for travelers that enjoy swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing. Big Corn loves baseball, and even has a stadium that is popular with locals and other travelers.

CIGARS LOVER’S PARADISE

One can’t talk about Nicaragua and not mention cigars. Although Cuba gets all the cigar glory, Nicaragua has been producing fantastic cigars for a long time, with much less fanfare. Nicaraguan cigars are the closest in comparison to the renowned Cuban cigars, and for good reason. After the Cuban revolution in the 1960’s, many of the finest cigar masters fled Cuba and settled and cultivated premium tobacco in the tropical nation of Nicaragua. In fact, many Nicaraguan cigar brands have roots in Cuba, such a Padron, My Father and Perdomo.

Lush, humid and fertile soils make Nicaragua prime for growing tobacco. Known for its powerful and spicy flavor profile, Nicaragua is the second largest supplier of premium cigars to the United States.

One of the many local beach bars

PADRON
Founded in 1964 in Miami, Florida, Padron cigars were first produced in Nicaragua in 1970. After many political struggles, these cigars recently exploded into the U.S market with the all-Nicaraguan Padron 1964 Anniversary Series. Padron is noted for its selection of aged tobaccos. It is said that Padron has 25 million aged cigars currently being stored for the future pleasure of cigar aficionados.

LA GRAN FABRICA DREW ESTATE
Although an American company, Drew Estate currently has the largest cigar factory in Nicaragua. Started by two fraternity brothers from New York, Drew Estate is known for being wildly innovative and urban. At the forefront of the “rebirth of cigars,” Drew Estate is producing unique and successful blends that suite a variety of tastes, while attracting a new generation of people to love and appreciate cigars.

TABACALERA PERDOMO
With roots that trace to Cuba, the Perdomo family endured many tragic struggles during the revolution, causing the Perdomos to flee to America. Because former President Juan Batista often visited the Perdomo factories prior to the revolution, the public gained the impression that the Perdomo family and Batista were close friends. This assumption made the Perdomos a target for the communist revolutionaries. Nick Perdomo Jr.’s grandfather was arrested in his home and imprisoned for over a decade. Soon after, his father was ambushed outside the same home, shot and severely wounded. Before even being fully recovered, Nick Perdomo Sr. moved his family to safety. Decades later, in 1992, Nick launched Perdomo cigars in his garage. The family now owns an 88,000-square foot factory in Nicaragua known as El Monstro.

Coffee plantation, seedlings, trees from the north of Nicaragua

TABACALERA CUBANA S.A. “MY FATHER”
Born in Cuba, Jose Pepin Garcia has been rolling cigars since he was 11 years old. Producing cigars has been a lifelong passion, and the Garcia family now owns two factories in Nicaragua, the largest known as Garcia Family Industrial Park. The company owns twelve cigar brands, and their factories produce 8 million cigars every year.

A.J. FERNANDEZ
A.J Fernandez’s grandfather started growing tobacco in pre-Castro Cuba, and it was here the brand first gained popularity. Proud of his family’s legacy in tobacco, A.J Fernandez continues to share his passion for premium cigars in Estelí, Nicaragua. He still pays homage to his Cuban roots with the San Lotano line.

TABACALERA OLIVA TABOLISA
Nicaragua’s second largest grower of Cuban-seed tobacco is the Oliva family, who has been growing tobacco since 1886. Forced to flee to Spain during the revolution in Cuba, the family eventually found fertile ground in Nicaragua for growing their precious seeds. After many years of struggles in Nicaragua, Oliva Cigar Company’s abundance of Nicaraguan tobacco allowed them to flourish into the next generation. When the United States started to fall in love with Nicaraguan tobacco, Oliva Cigars was ready to supply the goods.

Nicaragua is a land of intrigue, with still so much left to be discovered. Cities like Granada and León highlight the country’s dynamic history and culture with a colonial foundation, while towns like Estelí are a cigar and coffee lover’s paradise. The dramatic landscape, rich with volcanoes, dense forests and pristine beaches, beckons nature-lovers and adventure-seekers. If Nicaragua was not on your travel radar before, it should be now.

Featured / Lifestyle / Uncategorized

Inside the Barrel: Macallan Double Cask

Mar 20, 2017

Set on the sprawling lush landscape of Speyside, Easter Etches House is a 370-acre estate with rolling fields of barley and the symbol of one of the world’s best single malt scotches. Although the house was built in 1700, the Macallan distillery wasn’t founded until 1824 when Alexander Reid, a barley farmer and school teacher leased some land from the estate. One of the first distilleries in Scotland to be legally licensed, Macallan started as a small enterprise, but has since acquired world renown and fame. Continuously recognized for their quality products, the excitement keeps coming as they unveil their new Macallan Double Cask 12 year.

WHAT MAKES MACALLAN SPECIAL

Macallan Easter Elchies House Macallan, the name is derived from Gaelic words Magh, meaning a fertile piece of ground and Ellan, meaning of St. Fillan, credits its excellence to the foundation of six pillars. The first of the pillars is the spiritual home of Easter Elchies House and its fertile farmland. A classic Scottish style home with corbie step gables, turrets and quarried sandstone, Easter Elchies stands stately in the heart of the estate and a1`ppears on the label of every bottle of Macallan.

The home’s harmonious relationship with the land it occupies contributes to its supreme quality, with its rich soil for growing their exclusive minstrel variety barely and pristine spring water that spills over ancient rocks and into their whisky. Set along the river Spey, Speyside whiskies have a very different flavor profile from that of Highland whiskies. Although Highland whisky is typically more robust and peaty, whiskies from Speyside tend to be rich, grassy, sweet and fruity. They are approachable to those new to scotch and considered lunchtime whiskies for looking to drink before 5:00pm.

Macallan Double Cask Stills The second pillar is Macallan’s use of curiously small stills. As the smallest stills on Speyside, their size maximizes the contact with these 14 copper crafted stills, resulting in rich, fruity, full-bodied flavors. Just as Easter Elchies House appears on the label, these unusually tiny stills have become quietly famous as well, appearing on the back of the £10 note. Pillar three is the cut. The best part of the distillate is actually the middle portion of the spirit that comes off the still. Macallan claims to have the finest cut, only taking 16% of the final distillation from the spirit stills. Along with the slow flow of the stills and small percentage of spirit that makes the cut, Macallan is able to capture a very oily, rich flavor before it is even added to the oak casks.

The fourth and fifth pillars are all about the oak casks. Everything from the color, to aroma, to flavor is owed to the oak. In fact, this is where they put most their efforts, spending more on sourcing, building, seasoning and caring for their Spanish oak sherry casks, American oak sherry casks and American oak bourbon barrels than arguably any other single malt whisky. The wood is extremely important, providing 60% of the flavor as wells as the wide range of natural colors in their Whiskies. Given that the color is completely natural, it will not fade over time as it does with some other whisky brands.

Lastly, the spirit of Macallan itself is what makes for incredible scotch. Through purpose and attention to detail, Macallan was able to thrive, despite small beginnings. These are masters in the craft of whisky making, as well as masters of the land. It is that spirit that makes Macallan whisky distinctive and exceptional, earning global recognition.

MACALLAN DOUBLE CASK 12 YEAR

So what makes Macallan Double Cask 12 year special? Well, it is the best of both worlds by blending the flavors of different oaks. Although united with European oak, it is the first time that Macallan has used American sherry oak as the prominent flavor. Producing a flavor profile that is complex yet approachable, which makes it the perfect addition to their core range in the U.S. “By combining wood influences, we have been able to produce a new Macallan which sits perfectly between our existing Sherry Oak and Fine Oak ranges,” explains Bob Dalgarno, The Macallan Master Whisky Maker.

This double cask 12 year is 100% sherry seasoned and 100% natural color. Since American oak contains less tannin, the whisky aged in these casks will be sweet, fresh and fruity. The color is that of a harvest sun, but the aroma hints of butterscotch, toffee, orange, apple and vanilla custard. Once swirled around on the palate, the flavors of honey, wood spices, citrus, raisin and caramel are released as the warm dry oak lingers.

For an ultimate night cap, you will not be disappointed to sip on Macallan’s Double Cask 12 year neat, or add some rocks for a refreshing addition. To liberate even more flavors add a splash of water and let the day’s stress melt away into the darkness.

Learn more at the Macallan Website.

Featured / Spirits

Take a Trip To a Desert Oasis

Oct 27, 2016

By Amanda Keeley-Thurman

Hot. Dry. Unforgiving. Alluring. The desert is a place of intense elements and dangerous beauty. Spiky cacti dot the barren landscape. Tumble weeds roll across dusty roads. Oranges, yellows, pinks and caramels splash across the rocky mountain ranges. Sparkling stars blanket the night sky. There is a mystic to the desert; a romance that intrigues visitors to come and explore.

Despite the rawness of the desert there is opulence to be found. From California to Utah, the fascination of the desert can be indulged while enjoying the comfort and extravagance of a lavish accommodation. These ten luxurious desert resorts are no mirage, they are truly an oasis.

California

Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa

Located in the Coachella Valley, just a short drive from Palm Springs is a desert escape that must be experienced. The lush Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa is set on 240 acres with five on-site restaurants, a European spa, modern fitness center, 25 tennis courts and a 27-hole golf course designed by Ted Robinson. To keep cool in the desert heat, Splashtopia is everything you would need for an amazing water adventure, including a 450 foot lazy river. If that’s not relaxing enough, there is also The Azure Hotel Pool for adults only and the Spa Pool for spa guests to unwind.

JW Marriott

Take a boat tour around the many scenic waterways or hang out with some exotic birds. Yes Toto, we are still in the desert; Palms Springs to be exact. A mecca of exciting shops, bars and restaurants, Palm Springs is a desert playground, but The JW Marriott is a destination in itself! In addition to the lagoons, boats and exotic birds, the resort also has five pools, a wonderful spa, fabulous dining, and two Ted Robinson golf courses, the Valley Course and the Palms Course. After a day of activities what’s more relaxing than enjoying a cocktail by a fire pit on the terrace of the Blue Star Lounge?

Inn at Furnace Creek

Okay, Palm desert might be the obvious choice, but what about Death Valley? What could possibly be luxurious about a place like Death Valley? After miles of desolate landscape, The Inn at Furnace Creek rises from the desert like a mirage. This 1927 four-diamond hideaway is a very real and welcomed site for weary travelers. This resort encourages guests to indulge the lovely natural wonders the desert has to offer. The whole resort is fed by glacier water of the Travertine Springs, creating this lush oasis in Death Valley. Even the pool is naturally spring fed, warm year round, and with no chlorine.

 Arizona

Arizona Inn

Celebrating 85 years of luxury and glamour, Arizona Inn opened its doors during the depression as a symbol of hope. Shining like a star in Tucson for decades, the resort has attracted a few stars of its own. Celebrity guests have been flocking to the Arizona Inn for decades, like President F.D.R, Clark Gable, Gary Cooper, President Kennedy, the Rockefellers, Danny Kaye, John Wayne and Bettie Davis. Still family-owned, the inn has a wonderful warmness of home with the decadence you would expect of a luxury resort. Not only is the surrounding desert landscape breathtaking, but the property’s lovely garden bursts with color making every morning a good morning to be waking up at the Arizona Inn.

Phoenician

At the base of Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale sits the Five-Diamond Phoenician resort. In addition to guest rooms there are casitas and canyon suites. The Sonoran Desert gets hot fast, but at this resort there are eight pools to choose from to keep you cool, including an edgeless-pool. A beautiful day at the Phoenician is spent playing golf or tennis, checking out the amazing Cactus Garden or exclusive art collection or feeding the Koi in the tranquil Necklace Lake Lagoon. Then enjoy an evening dining at one of the many award winning restaurants or a private dinner for two under the stars at Dinner at tee box eight, the highest point on the resort golf course.

New Mexico

El Monte Sagrado

This Four-Diamond resort is not only an oasis; it is a sanctuary. To nurture and mystify guests, the El Monte Sagrado has a creative mix of calming and interesting elements. Waterfalls, lush landscaping, streams filled with fish, and the surrounding desert views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains help stimulate the senses while relaxing the body. For even more relaxation, decompress at The Living Spa and partake in one of the many organic treatments. Stay and enjoy a full day at the resort or take the opportunity to visit Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, just a three mile drive from the resort. End the day with a delicious global meal at De La Tierra or sip on a craft cocktail at the fascinating Anaconda Bar. The Anaconda Bar actually has a giant anaconda sculpture that wraps around the bar and up the ceiling as well as an exotic fish aquarium.

The Inn of Five Graces

This resort may be located in the desert on the oldest inhabited block in the U.S., but it does not fade into the dusty backdrop. Rather, it bursts off the scene with exotic flare from faraway lands. Intricate mosaics and colorful tapestries cover the property, exciting the eye at every turn while the exterior provides balances with the earthy tones of traditional adobe. Kiva fireplaces glow, as the sweet scent of mesquite wafts through the night air. Outside, be transported to another time. Inside, be transported to another world! Five Graces is an Eastern term referring to the five senses, and this resort intends to indulge all of them.

Nevada

Mandarin Oriental

Las Vegas as a city is an oasis, full of luxury resorts lined up along the strip. It can be hard to say which one is better than the other, but the Mandarin Oriental is the new kid on the block and welcomes the challenge. Excited to grow as an international brand, this resort was excited to make Las Vegas its new home in 2009. Carefully intermixing serenity into the overwhelmingly stimulating town, the Mandarin Oriental focuses on wellness and rejuvenation. Although there is no casino or smoking in this hotel, there are amazing bars, restaurants, a tea room, epic views, and the perfect spa to find your Zen.

Utah

Sorrel River Ranch

The perfect mix of rustic charm and opulent luxury. The Sorrel River Ranch sits along the Sorrel River with the breathtaking backdrop of the mountains. You want adventure? This resort has plenty of options like rock climbing, river-rafting, and horseback riding. Want to be pampered? Head to the spa for a treatment or Sit on deck and take in the amazing desert views.

Amangiri in Canyon Park

This resort is truly a hideaway in Canyon Park. It literally blends right into the surrounding canyons, only noticed by the warm glow behind its walls and many fire pits. The majestic landscape is the showcase of the Amangiri where the outside infuses with the inside. The canyons even spill into the pools, making for a magnificent sight. Plus, the resort is in the center the Grand Circle, surrounded by natural wonders, such as the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park and Monument Valley. The Amangiri encourages their guests to embrace the outdoors with a number of options for adventure or relaxation. You can even take a morning hot-air balloon ride over the Vermillion Cliffs and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument that launches from the resort.

Who knew the desert could be so revitalizing? The land of extreme elements is calmed with the tranquil environment of these luxurious desert oasis resorts. Upon check in, guests are able to fully enjoy all the beauty and wonder the desert has to offer. Mornings on the golf course, afternoons by the pool or spa, and evenings relaxing by the fire pit with a drink in hand. Don’t escape from the desert, escape to the desert at one of these ten amazing resorts.

Lifestyle

Glasgow Tobacco Lords

Sep 1, 2016

By Amanda Keeley Thurman
(Ed Note: In print, this article was incorrectly attributed Lanee Lee)

“The people make Glasgow.”

While that is the city’s motto, and while that may be true today; historically, it was the tobacco trade that made Glasgow an economic powerhouse and led to the creation of the ridiculously wealthy and notorious Glasgow Tobacco Lords. Prior to the 1700’s Glasgow was a mostly agricultural community with an unstable economy that was subject to the crown. One of the economic limitations imposed by the English was the Navigation Act, which hindered the Scottish from profiting in the growing trade with England’s colonies (including America), but Glasgow’s location and savvy merchant skills would propel them into an economic boom and turn mere merchants into Tobacco Lords.

What was the tobacco trade?

Glasgow was part of a triangular trade system in which goods such as sugar, rum, and tobacco were exchanged between Europe and the new world, including colonies in the Americas and the Caribbean. Unfortunately, the third prong of this trade route included ports in Africa in which slaves were brought to America’s shores and traded for our keystone export – American tobacco. The 1707 Act of Union is what initially sanctioned Glasgow merchants to engage in trade with the colonies, but interestingly enough the first documented shipment of Virginia tobacco to Glasgow was back in 1674, in scandalous violation of England’s laws.

Beyond merely trading tobacco, Glasgow merchants went further by setting up shop on the shores of Maryland and Virginia. At the stores they would keep barrels of tobacco stocked and ready so that trading ships would waste little time upon port entry. Here, farmers could also exchange tobacco for various goods, tools, money and credit.

How did Glasgow benefit from the tobacco trade?

Simply put, it was Glasgow’s position on the west side of Scotland, along the River Clyde, that made it the perfect jumping off point for trading with the West Indies and America. Why? Well, Europe’s taste for Virginia tobacco was rapacious and Glasgow just happened to be located where the trade winds hit Europe first, giving Glasgow merchants at least a two-week advantage over other ports in Europe. This edge is what prompted France to give Glasgow the monopoly on all of the imports of tobacco into French territories.

Now responsible for 50 percent of Europe’s tobacco imports, and up to 80 percent of its re-exports, which was greater than all of Britain’s trade combined, Glasgow hit the jackpot. With Clyde ports quickly becoming top dog in the tobacco trade, Glasgow went from a rural country town to a bustling metropolis virtually overnight. Enter the age of the Glasgow Tobacco Lords.

Who were these Tobacco Lords?

These were the guys that made loads of money in the tobacco trade, and boy did they like to flaunt their wealth. The Glasgow Tobacco Lords made sure everybody knew who they were by wearing ostentatious clothing as well as building lavish mansions and churches throughout the city. For example, the Tobacco Lords definitely had their own style. They would parade their swag in the streets with flashy scarlet cloaks and Tricorn hats atop their silver wigs while tapping their silver-tipped walking canes. Naturally, they did all their strutting along paved roads such as Trongate, which has been said to have been claimed as their own by the Tobacco Lords.

All around the city of modern-day Glasgow, street names serve as a reminder of its tobacco trade past. For example, in an area of downtown known as Merchant City, the Lords liked to flaunt their outlandish outfits and was the prime location where they chose to build their opulent mansions. Their own names as well as the names of their grand residences–and of the places that earned them their fortunes–still grace the streets of Glasgow today. The infamous Buchanan Street is named after Tobacco Lord Andrew Buchanan, while Virginia Street is named after Tobacco Lord Alexander Speirs’ Virginia Mansion. His name was also given to Speirs Wharf. The same goes for Ingram Street and Dunlop Street, named after Archibald Ingram and James Dunlop. William Cunninghame’s over-the-top mansion on Queen Street still stands grand, and has been repurposed as the Glasgow Gallery of Modern Art.

If the Tobacco Lords had their own style, their own streets and their own estates, then clearly they would have their own churches. The sensational St. Andrew’s Parish Church, located near the home of Alexander Speirs, was commissioned by the Tobacco Lords as another way to showcase their fortunes. Still considered one of the most impressive 18th century churches in Scotland, St. Andrews is now a center for performing art.

With grand churches to worship, one would naturally need an impressive place to rest in peace. Necropolis, the city of the dead, is a dramatic cemetery located high up on the hill overlooking the city. These men were rich, powerful, and wanted people to know it in life as well as in death. Just like their outrageous estates and churches, their eternal monuments spared no expense.

Political tensions

Despite the fancy garb, things were not always as they seemed. Malcontent colonists felt cheated by the tobacco trade, and tensions steadily grew approaching the 1760’s. The colonists believed that the Glasgow Tobacco Lords were manipulating prices and causing tobacco farmers to fall into major debt. You see, the English merchants made their money by selling the tobacco to Europe, but the Glasgow Tobacco Lords pre-arranged deals and then offered credit, giving huge loans to these planters. This line of credit would allow the tobacco farmers to purchase goods before their crop was harvested.

Unfortunately, many farmers found themselves deep in debt and were put in the difficult position of selling their crop for ridiculously low prices. Some of the high profile planters that were indebted to the ruthless Tobacco Lords and near bankruptcy included future Presidents of the United States George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson even stated that Tobacco Lords had submerged them in so much debt that it would be impossible to recover without selling one’s land and property.

Impact of the Revolution on Tobacco Trade

The year of 1775 was not good for Glasgow Tobacco Lords. The start of the American Revolution also marked the end of the big tobacco trade. Not only was it unfeasible for planters to pay off debts, but Tobacco Lords could no longer pick up cargo as Glasgow ships were not safe due to the hostile conditions of numerous battles.

Once the war was over and America gained independence, the tobacco planters no longer needed the Glasgow merchants as middlemen. They could now sell tobacco directly to Europe for themselves.

Some Tobacco Lords never recovered from the blow and lost everything, like John Glassford. He was said to be one of most successful of the Tobacco Lords, owning the biggest fleet of ships at that time as well as various tobaccos plantations. He made fortunes at the tobacco trade, but due the American war he died buried in debt.

However, some merchants cashed out just in time and found new thriving business ventures, such as the trade of sugar and cotton from the new world. Others like William Cunninghame were savvy enough to buy tobacco stock off his panicked partners and then sold them high, helping to maintain his fortunes.

The tobacco trade provided fifty years of major growth for the city of Glasgow, and the wallets of shrewd merchants. Owing directly to American tobacco, a small town in Scotland became an industrial city–and its merchants– wealthy lords. While the American Revolution ended the tobacco trade boom in Glasgow, reminders of its illustrious past are still present in the city today, making it hard to forget that tobacco, in fact, first made Glasgow.

Featured / Lifestyle

Top 10 Cigar Travel Destinations

Aug 11, 2016

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]By Amanda Keeley-Thurman

The love of cigars is more than just a hobby. For many, it is a lifestyle; a lifestyle with a rich history in culture and exploration. The first cigars can be traced back to the ancient Mayans, but it wasn’t until Christopher Columbus and his crew discovered tobacco in the Americas that cigars gained widespread popularity. The world fell in love with this rolled, sweet smelling tobacco; a timeless love that is worth traveling for.

The passion for cigars and travel go hand in hand. Travel, as well as cigars allows us to relax, learn and indulge. So, where should a cigar lover like you travel?

From Europe to the Caribbean, there are fabulous destinations around the world that will have cigar fans booking flights and leaving town. Some destinations are obvious, but others might be a bit surprising. See for yourself!

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#10 Honduras

Honduras is known for fantastic landscapes and thriving ecosystems, like the Rio Platano Biosphere Reserve. Honduras has adventure, such as kayaking, diving and snorkeling at Roatan, or rafting at the Rio Cangrejal. There is history at the Mayan ruins of Copan. Most importantly, there are cigars. Be sure to visit Carretera al Paraiso and take the Rocky Patel Cigar Factory tour and see the breathtaking Jamastran Valley tobacco fields.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#9 France

France France is home to the Quai d’Orsay cigar line. Although, Quai d’Orsay is produced in Cuba, it is rather hard to find outside of France. So, it looks like a trip to Paris is in order. While you are there, have a cigar in the oldest cigar shop in Paris a La Civette du Palais-Royal, where Napoleon and Casanova were said to be customers. For a truly unique experience, stop by Art Tabac and try the owner’s specialty made cigars in the smoking room.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#8 Switzerland

Switzerland and cigars, you say? Yes, Switzerland is a great destination for those who love cigars. For starters, they have the Davidoff-Schiff ship.
Holding numerous cigar events such as the Smoke on the Water event held once a month, this floating party cruises along on Lake Zurich providing cigar connoisseurs with a magical evening filled with cigars and even a few Swiss celebrities.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#7 Las Vegas

Vegas Okay, so Las Vegas doesn’t have historical tobacco fields, but is a great place to travel if you love to smoke cigars. Why? Because it is one of the few places anywhere, that you can enjoy
a cigar indoors and sometimes for free when you are gambling!
Plus, Las Vegas is home to some of the biggest tobacco conventions. A night cap at Casa Fuente isn’t a bad idea either. Located inside the Forum Shops at Caesar’s Palace, it has a
great selection of Arturo Fuente cigars.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#6 Nassau, Bahamas

Bahamas Nassau is home to Graycliff cigars, but visiting the Bahamas offers way more than just a factory tour. Stay at the family owned Graycliff Hotel for a complete cigar travel experience. Built in 1740, the Graycliff Hotel is Nassau’s first hotel and has made the National Register of Historic Places. The Graycliff boutique brand cigars use the complex entubado method and accommodations include a different Graycliff cigar each evening for turndown service. Talk about sweet dreams.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#5 Tampa

Tampa Say what? Not as sexy sounding as Miami, but Tampa used to be the cigar capital of the world! Ybor City, a neighborhood in Tampa, holds the annual Cigar Heritage Festival and is home to many famous cigar makers, including Arturo Fuente and J.C. Newman families. Considered a National Historic District, Ybor City is deeply rooted in cigar history, but this town is very much in the present with a happening nightlife and hub of fantastic Latin American restaurants.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#4 Miami

Miami 2 Want Cuban culture in the U.S? Then get to Miami. Little Havana is home to the oldest cigar factory in the U.S, the El Credito Cigar Factory. Although you can’t get real Cuban Cigars in the U.S, they do offer pretty close contenders. The cigars sold in Little Havana are grown in Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, but grown from Cuban tobacco seeds. Plus, Miami has great beaches and a hot night life![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#3 Nicaragua

NIca Increasingly popular among travelers, Nicaragua has a ton to offer from volcanoes to explore like Cerro Negro, gorgeous beaches and great surf, and let’s not forget the amazing coffee. For the cigar lover a visit to the cigar capital, Esteli, is a must.

Sign up for Drew Estate’s Cigar Safari for a full hands-on cigar experience. Esteli Cigarros, is a recommended stop for those who love cigars as it includes a free factory tour along with a tour of the tobacco fields. At Plasencia Cigars, where Casa Magna, Rocky Patel and Alec Bradley cigars are made, visitors get a chance to create their own blend. Also, don’t miss seeing the Perdomo tobacco
fields and factory.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#2 Dominican Republic

Whether you like to keep it low-key with a leisurely round of golf on the La Cana Golf Course or want to seek some excitement on the Jarabacoa Adventure, all cigar lovers will agree that Dominican Republic is a must. In Santo Domingo, visit the Tabacalera De Garcia Factory, the largest in the world! Also in the Dominican Republic are La Aurora Cigar World, Davidoff Factory, Tabacalera Palma Field and factory, Quesada Cigars Factory, Tabacalera La Alianza EP Carrillo Factory, La Flor Dominicana tobacco field and factory, Don Lucas Cigars, and the De Los Reyes Cigar field and factory.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

#1 Cuba

cuba It is no surprise that Cuba would make the top destination when it comes to loving cigars. Not only are Cuban cigars considered (by many-not all) to be the best, thanks to Cuba’s perfect environment for growing high-quality leaves and the Cuban’s expertise in cigar making, but it is also a very exciting time for travel! The recent changes with travel allowances have made it easier for U.S citizens to visit Cuba. Cigar lovers will want to set up a tour of Havana cigar factories such as the Partagas Cigar Factory, the oldest in Cuba. Get out to the countryside and visit the tobacco plantations such as the Vuelta Abajo region where the finest Habano tobaccos are harvested. Don’t forget to enjoy every cigar with Cuban Rum like Havana Club. Tastings and pairings are readily available in Cuba! Plan your trip for February and enjoy the formal Habanos Festival celebrating Cohiba and Romeo y Julieta.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Amanda Keeley-Thurman is a freelance writer, blogger and bartender with a passion for fine cigars, stiff drinks and great adventures. She has been sharing her stories in Cigar & Spirits Magazine since 2011, and regularly provides hot travel advice on her blog HotMamaTravel.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]