Has anyone been to Calle Ocho recently? Was it worth it? Is it safe?

I've walked around that area several times ,most recently last summer; it's interesting. La Gloria Cubana is next to pepin Garcia's . Garcia's has their rolling room there, and you can view them in action. You can purchase singles and/or boxes. No bargains, but selection is quite good. Nearby is Padron; same thing, no bargains but good selection. One of the Padron's themselves will probably be waiting on you. They will sign their autograph if you ask nicely. Apparently Bill Murray was there the day before (just missed him!) There are other shops in the area,but don't know much about them. Also there are some gift shops w/ Cuban trinkets, etc. for sale. The area is safe in daytime(never been there after dark). There are also some interesting statues/monuments of Cuban historical events/figures. Farther west on Calle Ocho is a big store that sells guyaberas only...talk about selection!(not cheap though). As I said, it's interesting to cigar smokers;I don't drag the wife down there!