In an effort to better understand some of the lifestyle trends in Vietnam, we paid a visit to Dennis Tuan Phan. Known casually as a cigar connoisseur in Vietnam, Dennis offered the Vietcetera team a session at SIQAR Lounge with him to learn the basics of the cigar subculture in Vietnam.
![An Inside Look At The Cigar Culture In Vietnam0](https://img.vietcetera.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Dennis-Tuan-Phan.jpg)
What makes a cigar better than a cigarette?
There’s a lot of worldwide misconceptions about cigars, particularly in Vietnam. A cigar is actually better for your health than a cigarette. It has 100% natural tobacco, while a cigarette has paper and chemicals. A cigar is also handcrafted, which adds an element of art to the process.
![An Inside Look At The Cigar Culture In Vietnam1](https://img.vietcetera.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Dennis-Tuan-Phan-10.jpg)
What are some of the best spots in Ho Chi Minh City to enjoy a cigar?
My favorites include Saigon Cigar Club, The Society Bar & Grill on Nguyen Hue. Then there’s also The Social Club at MGallery Hotel des Arts. And of course, SIQAR Lounge.
![An Inside Look At The Cigar Culture In Vietnam2](https://img.vietcetera.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Dennis-Tuan-Phan-7.jpg)
Who are the best hand carry pilots in Vietnam? What are the best ways to get a cigar affordably in Vietnam?
We have many. Though some of them are starting to mix fake cigars in their deliveries. Right now I only prefer working with close friends. Usually pilots will buy a few boxes in their home country. Vietnamese customs law allows passengers to carry 100 cigar sticks. Whenever I buy cigars for myself, I only buy one box. Retailers like SIQAR Lounge will buy the maximum allowed, since purchasing retail in Vietnam can add up quickly with the local tax.
![An Inside Look At The Cigar Culture In Vietnam3](https://img.vietcetera.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Dennis-Tuan-Phan-4.jpg)
For the average Vietnamese consumer there are three ways to get a cigar. First, hand carry through Europe and Hong Kong. Most of the ways to get them in bulk and on a recurring basis are with pilots. Second, you can order online from America and have it shipped. Or third, just purchase via retail in places like the one we’re sitting in.
![An Inside Look At The Cigar Culture In Vietnam4](https://img.vietcetera.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Dennis-Tuan-Phan-2.jpg)
What do you guys talk about during cigar club meetups in Ho Chi Minh City?
One of the concepts we’re talking about is a cigar club membership! We’re growing a large community here, large enough to justify a small membership experiment. The cigar community here is about 70% local Vietnamese. Many are newbies willing to learn. 30% are foreigners. Just like anywhere else in the world, cigars in Vietnam have become part of a subculture here.
![An Inside Look At The Cigar Culture In Vietnam5](https://img.vietcetera.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Dennis-Tuan-Phan-12.jpg)
Most of our local readers wonder: why do you take so many photos with a cigar in hand?
Because I love cigars – it’s a lifestyle. I have my true smile with a cigar in hand. Most cigar smokers want to show off, wear nice watches, and smoke the most expensive cigars they can get their hands on. I feel most natural and at ease with a cigar, so I try to make that as part of my online reputation.
![An Inside Look At The Cigar Culture In Vietnam6](https://img.vietcetera.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Dennis-Tuan-Phan-11.jpg)