New Valley LLC Investment in Escena (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Operating income (loss)	$ 43,193	$ 37,855	$ 117,567	$ 107,298
Escena [Member] | New Valley LLC [Member]
Investment Holdings [Line Items]
Land and land improvements	11,272		11,272		11,245
Building and building improvements	1,525		1,525		1,525
Other	1,325		1,325		1,208
Total Investment in Escena before depreciation	14,122		14,122		13,978
Less accumulated depreciation	(948)		(948)		(698)
Investment in Escena, net	13,174		13,174		13,280
Operating income (loss)	$ (762)	$ (544)	$ (275)	$ (261)