Estanco Etiquette

[tippexx]

End of September I'm in Spain. I'll be looking for one particular vitola, unfortunately it's known for sometimes having construction issues. I'll want to inspect the smokes (if I find any). I know enough not to be wearing sun-tan cream etc., ... but how acceptable is it to touch and finger test every cigar in a box knowing that there is a good possibility of rejecting the box?

[GFK1]

I found most Estanco managers very helpful. Just expalin that you have had some problems with this particular cigar and that you need to check the box carefully. I am sure he or she will substitute any cigars you are not happy with.

[TJCoro]

... but how acceptable is it to touch and finger test every cigar in a box?

Heehee! Catalina Joy always touches and fingers her sticks before taking 'em "out of the box!"

Ray Jay

[cj121]

Heehee! Catalina Joy always touches and fingers her sticks before taking 'em "out of the box!"

Ray Jay

You mean no prelight draw testing! Bah, humbug

Arf, I've not a wealth of experience, but have had varied responses: a few have been a little impatient, whilst others let you get on with it. The former seem to be a little dumbfounded as to why you might need to, and I guess that shows their ignorance (not in a disrespectful way). Without playing on my post, suck it and see

[butternutsquashpie]

Well just a thought here if I may:
If you're going around touching and fingering the sticks, why not do what the professionals do: wear gloves.
Everyone is uncomfortable in the situation. But at least you and the sticks are physically protected!

I'm pretty sure your charming English dialogue can be used to explain your special conditions!

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[Sligub]

Well just a thought here if I may:
If you're going around touching and fingering the sticks, why not do what the professionals do: wear gloves.
Everyone is uncomfortable in the situation. But at least you and the sticks are physically protected!

I'm pretty sure your charming English dialogue can be used to explain your special conditions!

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I've never seen a roller or shop assistant wear gloves to touch sticks and that's the only "professional" that should be touching my sticks.

I would just ask Arf and if they have a problem shop elsewhere.

[Gary]

I think it's perfectly reasonable to want to pick up a stick or two to inspect them before possibly shelling out several hundred Euro's on the box, who knows what the underside of a particular stick might be like, poor construction, holes in the wrapper, mould, evidence of beetles etc.

[butternutsquashpie]

I've never seen a roller or shop assistant wear gloves to touch sticks and that's the only "professional" that should be touching my sticks.

I was making a subtle reference to health professionals giving prostate exams.

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