The Cannabis-Lover’s Jet Setting Guide To The Perfect Vacation

Borders are reopening and for those jet-setters that like to escape the cold and snow for more exotic places- this might be the best news you’ve received in years. For people who love getting a little hazy in the sun and don’t want to leave their cannabis habits along with the cold, North American weather- then this guide is for you! There are many destinations where it’s either legal or so socially acceptable that you could get away with lighting up with the locals

North American Vacations

If you aren’t quite ready to leave this part of the world because of lingering restrictions then there are some gorgeous places to explore in your backyard. Canada legalized weed on October 17, 2018, so no matter what breathtaking part of the country you decide to see, you’re good to go. There are legal dispensaries pretty much anywhere you decide to go as long as you’re 18 years old.

The United States of America, while closely linked with Canada, has different views on cannabis. Depending on what state you are in getting high could be legal, only legal with a medical card, or could end with you in an American prison. The states that have legalized our favourite green medication are:

• Colorado
• Washington
• Alaska
• Oregon
• Washington
• California
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• Nevada
• Michigan
• Vermont
• Guam
• Illinois
• Arizona
• Montana
• New Jersey
• New York
• Virginia
• New Mexico
• Connecticut

Alternatively, the most strict state with the harshest policies is Florida. Leave your dreams of getting stoned in the sunshine when you choose to visit as the penalty for carrying even just one ounce on you is a fine of $6,000. It’s one of the only places where it’s a criminal charge to get caught selling paraphernalia

Global Cannabis Destinations

If like me, you’re willing to jump through hoops to leave the country for your annual dose of adventure then there are lots of places where it’s legal to blaze.

1. Belize: Known as one of the most gorgeous travel destinations, nestled in between Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea is known for its clear blue water and white beach sand. In 2017 the government decriminalized carrying up to 10 grams on you. While it technically isn’t legal to smoke in public it is okay in your home or someone else’s with their permission. This law also carries out to the water on a sailboat.
2. Jamaica: This tropical country has a big Rastafarian reputation to uphold and marijuana has been decriminalized here since 2015. No matter where you go, friendly strangers will be offering up this holy, green herb within minutes of walking across the beach.
3. Uruguay: This South American destination was the first country in current history to legalize cannabis. President Jose Mujica passed a law to legalize recreational marijuana in December of 2013 for anyone over the age of 18. The only catch is that you have to be registered with the government before purchasing, selling, or growing. In 2017, the same year Canada made weed legal, Uruguay began selling it in every pharmacy.
4. Mexico: Even though weed isn’t technically legal here without a permit from the health secretariat, it’s been so popularized that you should be okay. A personal stash of fewer than 5 grams was decriminalized in June 2021 so if you can find it just be discreet.
5. Peru: This is another country where it is not legal but is tolerated. The country legalized medicinal use in 2017 but never followed with the next step of legalizing recreational cannabis. If you are discreet while there and don’t grow or sell you should be okay.
6. Costa Rica: While it is not legal to smoke here there are no penalties for personal consumption. It will seem like every single person there is getting stoned so you will feel really at home with a joint on the beach. In March of this year they finally legalized weed for medicinal use so who knows what will follow!
7. Argentina: A country right on the coast of sunny South America where personal cannabis use is not only normalized but a constitutional right. Although it’s still illegal to sell or transport large amounts, consuming in private locations is completely accepted.
8. Cambodia: I can actually speak from personal experience here and say that it is very easy to locate cannabis in Cambodia. While it’s easily accessible don’t get your hopes up about the quality. For the most part, it is compressed bush weed that is hard to crush up and smoke but it can be purchased from almost every bar and shop. I suggest purchasing from your local hostel rather than from the street as I was sold bags of tea pretending to be a hazy, green herb.
9. The Netherlands: Amsterdam coffee shops have been selling and smoking in coffee shops for decades. This one seems just as obvious as Jamaica- weed is so woven into the local cultures. Hurry up and make your way sooner than later though as with the lower levels of tourism they are now trying to change their global image. This could mean banning non-Europeans from smoking openly.
10. Estonia: A picturesque country on the baltic sea that is tucked in between Asia and Europe known for its unique history and dense forests. While it is not technically legal here, the weed culture runs deep. There is a town named Kanepi where the official emblem is the marijuana leaf and you can see it represented on their flag. Possession of anything under 7.5 grams is considered okay for personal use and while you may get a fine if caught there is no jail time. Carrying large amounts or selling is still a criminal offence and could land you in jail for up to 5 years, so stay out of trouble!

This is just a small list of the countries where Cannabis is legal or tolerated for recreational use so if you don’t see your holiday destination on here don’t panic! Let us know about your experience with marijuana on your travels in the comments!