Cambodia & ''Cuban Cigar Festival'': Celebrating Cuban know-how and premium cigars in the Kingdom
- Editorial team
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Whisky Salon of Cohiba Atmosphere Lounge – Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh, the details of the long-awaited Cuban Cigar Festival were unveiled to the local press and influencers passionate about the art of cigars and premium spirits.
Organized by The Pacific Cigar Company in collaboration with Cigar Divan Cambodia and the Embassy of Cuba in Cambodia, this unique event promises to bring together enthusiasts of cigars, whisky, and Cuban culture from October 23 to 27, 2025, in both the Cambodian capital and the coastal city of Sihanoukville.
Thomas Bianco: A New Step in a Distinguished Career
A new leading figure in Cambodia’s premium cigar scene, Thomas Bianco has recently taken on the role of Country Manager at Cigar Divan Cambodia & The Pacific Cigar Company. This appointment marks a significant milestone in his career, bridging his rich background in luxury hospitality—where he spent over ten years at the Raffles Hotel Le Royal—with his new mission devoted to promoting Cuban cigar culture throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
By entering this refined field, Thomas Bianco brings not only his expertise in management and hospitality but also an innovative vision to cultivate a vibrant community of high-end cigar aficionados. He now personifies the growing dynamism of the premium cigar market, emphasizing authenticity, traceability, and sophistication. Under his leadership, Cohiba Atmosphere Lounge Phnom Penh has emerged as an elite destination offering a multi-sensory experience that combines rare cigars, exceptional spirits, and local artistry.
A Celebration of Heritage and Friendship Between Cuba and Cambodia
This festival is a prestigious occasion to commemorate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Cuba and Cambodia, while paying tribute to Cuba’s globally renowned artisanal heritage. According to Thomas Bianco, the event goes beyond simple tasting—it serves as a cultural and commercial bridge designed to nurture a passion for the art of cigars and to strengthen ties between both nations.
Thanks to Bianco’s dynamic leadership, the Cuban Cigar Festival promises to be a major highlight of the year, blending Cuban tradition, exceptional craftsmanship, and Cambodian hospitality. It invites all enthusiasts to savor a refined experience of conviviality, culture, and prestige.
Guests are encouraged to reserve early, as each venue offers a limited number of seats for this exclusive celebration taking place in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville.
The Cuban Cigar Festival: An Exceptional Gathering
The Cuban Cigar Festival, running from October 23 to 27, 2025, will enliven several prestigious venues across Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. The guest of honor will be Mr. Osiel Lopez de la Osa, a Cuban master cigar roller from the El Habanero factory, whose 9th-level certification testifies to his exceptional expertise. Through live demonstrations, he will give participants a rare glimpse into the artisanal craft of rolling Cuban cigars.
Detailed schedule of festivities:
October 23, 6:30 PM: Opening night at Cohiba Atmosphere, Raffles Hotel Le Royal, Phnom Penh
October 24, 6:00 PM: The Cigar Chamber, Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra
October 24, 9:00 PM: Sky Bar, Rosewood Phnom Penh
October 25, 2:30 PM: The Cigar Wall, Novotel Sihanoukville
October 25, 6:30 PM: Jati Resort, Koh Russey
October 26, 6:00 PM: Cigar Lambert Lounge
October 26, 9:00 PM: Cigar World, Phnom Penh
October 27, 2:00 PM: South Pacific Winetage Galleria
October 27, 6:00 PM: Kan Pai Lounge
October 27, 9:00 PM: Casa Diego, Sihanoukville, Koh Russey
Each venue will offer exclusive pairings between authentic Cuban cigars and prestigious spirits, creating an atmosphere conducive to discovery and meaningful connection.
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