Tobacco.org

A passion for smoking keeps Italian tobacco shop rolling  

Cigar-smoking is an increasingly admired pastime in Italy, becoming "extremely popular," he said. More and more young adults, in particular, have discovered, indulged in — and can afford — the habit once reserved for the wealthy elite.

"It used to be a passion for the rich and powerful," Olson said. "But what used to cost 20 to 30 euros a cigar now costs 4 to 5 euros, and the professional young groups, the 20-to-30-somethings, are starting to enjoy it and get into it."

And popularity has surged among women, he added.

Cigars flavored with berries, vanilla, anise or coffee, to name a few, have piqued the palates of women looking to enjoy a stogie.

And yes, their tobacco shop — tabaccheria — on Via Miliscola in Arco Felice’s main piazza sells Cubans.

In fact, Cubans are the first thing American clients ask for, Olson said

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