Welcome

 So here we are. You, a reader, and me, a writer, together virtually completely ignoring the normal flow of time. I am communicating with you in the future, from the past. Neat huh?   

OK, so that whole wibbly-wobbly-timey-wimey stuff isn't what this blog is about. It's about cigars, by a guy who spends his life sailing around the world. What a combination. 

So what can you expect here?  Honestly, who knows. My intent as of today is to share some thoughts and reviews on cigars I find as I travel, as well as at home. 

Brief introduction. I am an environmental officer on board a cruse ship. Currently I work for Holland America Line. I don't expect that to change, but you never know in these strange times. I started my career at sea as a marine engineer working the engine room keeping all of the ship's systems running. I switched to an environmental role a few years into my career as I felt like I could make more of an impact on our operation from this position. I smoke cigars as a way to unwind, relax, and enjoy the sights - as well as giving myself a reason to sit down and take a break from the sometimes hectic pace of my career. I also roll my own cigars both at home and on board using tobacco I buy online from a variety of suppliers. 

Now comes the money part of the blog. I will occasionally post links to products or companies I have worked with. There is a chance that these companies will provide me with compensation for those links. That may be a cash payment for traffic I direct to them, or a discount on my purchases from them, or perhaps product to sample and review. I earn my living as a seafarer. I don't intend on making any substantial money here with this blog - that's not why I am doing it. It's a way for me to share my thoughts, my experiences, and my opinions on the cigars. But hey, if someone said to you "Hey, you mentioned my website on your blog, and that got me a dozen new customers! Here's a free Cohiba. Thanks!", would you not take it?  Me too. On the other hand, if someone says "Hey, post a link to my (crappy overpriced) online store and I'll give you a free Cohiba", I'll pass. The only links I'll post will be to places I use myself. 

Also, I need to mention that anything I post here, is of course my own opinion. This blog is not sponsored by or endorsed by my employer. 

Finally, cigars are, in mu opinion, a luxury item. They are not cigarettes and should not be taxed or regulated the same way. In many countries, cigars are treated exactly like cigarettes and subject to the same packaging, labeling, advertising and taxation laws. I think this is wrong, and encourage you to speak up if your country has the same policies. Remember our governments are there to support us, not to control us. They answer to us. If we want change, we need to make ourselves heard. 

And now, off to start rolling my new cigars!  I look forward to more posts, and to hearing from anyone whos reading. Drop me a note, say hi. Happy Smoking!