I really appreciate you meeting with me. I was so curious about what you’ve created here—it feels really unique for Bucerías. How did you come to this idea, and what inspired you to pursue it?

He laughed.
“Honestly, I was driving into Puerto Vallarta way too often just for this kind of thing. It started as something fun… and then it kind of took on a life of its own and became a full-time job.

I just wanted a spot where people could relax—have a coffee or a drink, enjoy a good cigar, and connect. Being here in centro, with all the restaurants and nightlife around, it just works. And I’ve met some incredible people—real friendships came out of it. That’s been the best part.”

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Tell me about your shop—what makes it special, and what can people expect to find here?

"So many things! " -light chuckle-"What really makes it special is the experience. When people walk in, I want them to feel like they can slow down and just enjoy it. We’ve put together a curated mix of authentic cigars—Cuban, Mexican, Nicaraguan, and a few others. Everything is hand-rolled, all real—nothing flavored or gimmicky. Just good, honest cigars.

We also carry a range of accessories—torches, cigar holders for golfers, things for enjoying cigars at home. And we’ve got a nice selection of t-shirts with different slogans, or if someone wants something custom, we can make that happen too.

In the back, there’s a lounge with comfortable leather chairs, a TV, air conditioning, and a proper smoke filtration system. There is also a couple tables and comfortable chairs outside where you can enjoy the warm outside weather and people watch.It’s a place where people can sit down, have a coffee or a drink, and just relax for a while.

All of our cigars are kept in a walk-in, climate-controlled humidor—the only one north of Puerto Vallarta—so everything is stored the way it should be. Whether you’re brand new or you’ve been smoking cigars for years, there’s something here for you. And we’re always bringing in new inventory, so there’s usually something different to try."

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What first drew you to cigars — do you remember your first memorable cigar?

“My introduction to cigars really began with my father. He was a smoker, and while cigarettes never appealed to me, I was always drawn to the ritual and aroma of the occasional pipe, or the little Colts and Old Ports he’d enjoy while we were fishing or while he worked in the garage. There was something about those moments — the smell, the atmosphere, the connection — that stayed with me.

As a teenager, I started smoking those little cigarillos myself while camping, fishing, and spending time outdoors. Over the years, that gradually evolved into an appreciation for premium cigars.

The cigar I remember most was my first true Cuban — a Cohiba Siglo VI — which I bought in Victoria around 1994 or ’95 when I was about 24. At the time it was around thirty Canadian dollars, which seemed like a splurge then. Today that same cigar is over two hundred U.S. It was a memorable introduction to what a great cigar could be, and in many ways, that was the beginning of a lifelong enjoyment.”

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Would you choose to do this business again if given the choice?

"In the beginning, I wasn’t certain I would choose this path again. However, looking at it now, I would say yes without hesitation! It’s grown into something much bigger than I expected—I’ve become part of a community, met people from all over the world, and gained a deeper appreciation for both the craft and the culture. Experiences like touring the Cohiba factory in Cuba and attending Cigar events in Mexico City have made it incredibly rewarding."

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Why Bucerías for you? Is this somewhere you’ve always called home?

“This wasn’t always home. I’d been coming here regularly for about five years after a longtime friend first introduced me to Bucerías. Over time, it started to feel familiar… and eventually, like home.

After many years of living on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, I decided to retire early”—he laughs—“and chase the warm weather. So, here I am, and no regrets."

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What is it about Bucerias that really drew you to its community? Beyond the introduction.

“To be honest, it was the people first — their friendliness, warmth, and the vibrancy of the community. Of course the weather doesn’t hurt, but it’s also the location. Bucerías puts you within easy reach of places like Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, and Rincón de Guayabitos — there’s always somewhere nearby to explore. It’s a place where life feels both relaxed and full of possibility. You never really get bored here.”

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What would you say to someone who sees cigars only as smoke, and not the culture or camaraderie behind them?

“People often think it’s just smoke, but to me cigars have always been more about the company than the cigar itself. It’s about slowing down, sharing stories, meeting people you might never otherwise meet. There’s tradition, craftsmanship and a real sense of camaraderie in cigar culture. The cigar is almost the excuse — the connection is the real experience.”

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As our conversation winds down, it’s clear this small cigar lounge is about far more than tobacco. Some places leave an impression not because of what they sell, but because of how they make people feel. Here, amid smoke, stories, and shared moments, Jeff has created more than a shop — he’s created a sense of place. And sometimes the most memorable destinations aren’t defined by geography at all, but by the people who shape them.

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