20 February 2016 ~ Romeo y Julieta

Listening to:  Leslie West ~ Turn Out The Lights

One day we visited a cigar factory, one of the most famous in Cuba, Romeo y Julieta. It really was named after Shakespeare's masterpiece. Founded in 1875, it has won numerous awards.

Unfortunately, no pictures were allowed within the factory. But even on a day not considered "hot" by Cuban standards, most workers were in tank tops and the fans were blowing. Cigar rollers are paid $10 per month, but are also given 10 cigars per week that do not pass "inspection", which they are free to sell on the open market.

This was the first time I had seen Fidel's picture anywhere in the country.

Not only do they sell cigars in the collective, but also rum.