Nat Sherman, New York City

Dwarfed among the massive high rise buildings, and flagship fashion stores of New York City is the modest throwback tobacconist reminiscent of the 19th century.  The quaint two-story structure with the look of an old clock maker's shop draws your attention back down to street level.

Entering the shop one is transported into a nineteenth century novel, you feel the subtle gentility and antiqueness descend peacefully upon you.  This is typically considered the man's world of cigars, but the growing number of women cigar smokers would find this stop not far from Times Square a pleasant surprise.

Nat Sherman Tobacconist is worthy stop for any cigar afficiando on a New York City break.  My visit was a peaceful stop in a bustling city.  Strolling down the famous 5th Avenue, and turning the corner on 42nd Street I was captured by the quaintness of the building, and once inside I was ushered into a woody library of cigars and tobacco paraphernalia.  Helpful and kind staff, a wide variety of their trademark cigars, and a comfortable atmosphere make a stop at Nat Sherman a must stop for the cigar lover.

Adding to my stop at Calle Ocho in Miami Nat Sherman is part of my list I have accomplished already.

Getting a Little Moore Cuban in Miami

8th Street in Little Havana Miami is a plain low lying neighborhood of simple 1920's-1940's architecture without the art deco design - boxy storefronts, stark sidewalks, and a wide boulevard. There is almost no shade to offer the visitor a place of respite from the hot southern sun.

The simple shop exteriors hide a world of Cuban treasures. Stepping behind the storefront doors you are transported into another world. At the corner of 8th and 15th El Pub Restaurant provides the weary traveler with the best in Cuban sandwiches, and cafe con leche.

A short walk down the block, brings you to one of the many cigar shops - in this case the home to Moore and Bode. Sharon Bode Moore who has been dubbed the queen of the Miami cigar world may even be there to greet you, and discuss her degree in theology, the significance of the butterfly and sword of St. George logo, or the organic tobaccos they use for their cigars.

Been there – done that. This was worth being on my list of 1,000 things to do before I die. A return trip to visit the other cigar shops may make my list as well. Calle Ocho in Little Havana is without a doubt my favorite neighborhood in Miami.  This actually makes for a pretty cheap Florida holiday.