These days you can buy just about everything you could ever want without the need to leave the comfort of your own home. You can shop till you drop and never have to look for a parking space or face the crowds down at the mall thanks to the magic of the Internet, but is it really the place to buy cigars?

The short answer is Yes and No.

You can get some good deals online, but you should also shop at the local "B&M", which is short for "Brick & Mortar" - meaning a physical store location.

Aside from the fact that it would be considered "nice" to support your local tobacconist, you may be wondering what's in it for you if you can get lower prices online, especially in these days of tough economic times.

If you are new to cigars, it is best to start with your local B&M. They can point you in the right direction on which cigars to start with, and you can make a small purchase of just 1 or 2 cigars if you like. A beginner should never start with a box, or several of one cigar. Your tastes will change over time, and what was your favorite last week may not be this week.

You also have the benefit of bumping into other cigar smokers at the local shop that can offer their input and advice. Most cigar smokers are very friendly and enjoy sharing their experiences.

If you're just beginning to smoke cigars there's nothing that beats being able to walk into a cigar dealer and being able to actually touch the cigars, smell them and look at the quality that's hiding behind the description.

In fact there are some experts who would suggest that for a beginner the only way to buy cigars is by doing it face-to-face at a cigar dealer. Not only do you get the chance to talk about cigars with someone who wants to sell you the product that is right for you but you also get to hear the language of cigars and discover the meanings of those words and phrases that cigar smokers are so quick to use when talking about their favorite smoke.

While learning the language can be important perhaps even more important here is the fact that you learn to judge what's right for you. Learning all about the characteristics of the cigars you like is very important and it will help you develop your taste for the right cigars.

Another benefit of buying from the local shop is that they sometimes get the newest cigars first. You have the opportunity to try a new cigar by just buying one. If you love it, you can always look for some mega deal online later.