The Best Cannabis-Friendly Tourist Hot Spots Outside the USA (2023 Update)

Cannabis-inspired tourism is one of the biggest cash cows in the travel industry for certain countries.

It’s just one of several avenues that pour cash in from pot-loving tourists, boosting the economy where recreational cannabis is legal. Nowadays, there are more countries legalizing weed; slowly but surely, Amsterdam is no longer the only place in the world that is synonymous to a stoner’s paradise. A recreational cannabis-friendly destination is extremely attractive to the growing number of pot-loving tourists around the globe.

That said, where should you head off to on your next weed-infused holiday?

Check out these options outside the United States, below:

Thailand

If the tropical destinations of Koh Samui or Koh Phangan and the like appeal to you, the cultural and historical charm of Chiang Mai, or the buzzing cosmopolitan city of Bangkok – the good news is that all of Thailand is pretty weed-friendly.

Thailand has trailblazed cannabis legalization in Asia, a region notorious for strict drug laws and conservative approaches, for legalizing cannabis. Last year in 2022, the Thai government finally removed medical marijuana from the list of banned substances. Since then, dispensaries and cannabis shops have sprouted like a weed all over the country. However, certain loopholes in the law made it far too easy for tourists to easily be able to buy weed and even consume them in lounges found all over the country.

Weed shops are as common in Thailand as convenience stores are, so tourists should have no problem locating weed. Just be warned that you can’t smoke in public; if you decide to partake, do so in the comforts of your own accommodation.

Canada

Ah, the beautiful Great White North!

Canada offers a multitude of diverse experiences for tourists. From the stunning cityscapes of Vancouver and Quebec to the jaw-dropping nature of Banff National Park, Niagara Falls, Whistler, and so much more.

Even better,  are legally allowed to purchase and consume marijuana, based on Provincial and Federal laws around Canada. However, take note that the rules vary depending on the city and province. But for tourists, the most weed-friendly city is Vancouver. There are tons of world-class dispensaries to be found all over Vancouver, and you can easily get pot anytime you need it.

Other cool green cities include Montreal, Calgary, and Toronto.

The Netherlands

The Netherlands – famous for exquisite cheese, pastries, coffee, beautiful flowers, delicious beer, a bicycle culture, and so much more. There’s just so much to do in various cities around the Netherlands. For several decades, it has also been home to the world’s pot capital, Amsterdam, which attracted hoards of tourists from around the world who came to escape their home countries with strict cannabis laws.

Right now, Amsterdam may no longer be the cannabis capital of the world, as they’ve changed laws recently due to the complaints of locals. But it is still possible to find a few coffee shops around Amsterdam that sell weed in several forms to tourists. Technically, cannabis isn’t legal but it has been decriminalized.

That said, the rest of Holland still has a fairly relaxed policy when it comes to cannabis consumption, whether you are a local or not. Tourists can do so safely by abiding with the rules, most especially only having less than 5 grams of weed in possession at all times. Never make a scene in public and, like in most places, it’s always best to get high at home. Locals have complained to the police about the smell of pot everywhere, and while this may be common back home in the United States, it’s considered a disturbance in most of Europe.

Mexico

White sand beaches, ancient Aztec ruins, delicious tacos all day, colorful streets and vibrant music… it’s no secret that Mexico is the #1 destination for Americans who want to soak up sunshine and all things tasty.

However, cannabis is still technically illegal BUT it has been decriminalized since 2021. Tourists can easily procure weed especially in La Estella Del Luz, which is famous for being home to a spot where anyone can easily buy and smoke weed. Other points of sale around Mexico include the Metro Hidalgo and Zocalo.

Italy

Italy – the land of pizza, pasta, cheese, and wine. Incredibly rich history and culture, shopping, breathtaking seascapes… there’s just so much to do in Italy, that it’s not uncommon for people to come back again and again for more.

Over the last few years, there’s another reason why more tourists arrive in droves in Italy. This scenic European country makes it easy for tourists to buy weed. Cannabis has been decriminalized and it still sits in a gray area, but several popular tourist destinations openly sell weed. Just keep in mind that only small amounts are allowed, and it’s mostly very low in THC but high in CBD. That’s because it’s only legal to sell cannabis that contains under 0.5% THC.

Conclusion

Being able to enjoy weed in many forms while on holiday takes your experience to another level. It certainly will make your trip even more memorable!

Just be sure to do your research on drug laws wherever you decide to travel. The laws are constantly changing throughout the world, so always do your due diligence before buying. Many places don’t permit public consumption, so always stay on the safe side. And never, ever fly with weed!

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