As cannabis legalization gains momentum worldwide, several countries have emerged as leaders in embracing and normalizing its use, creating a weed-friendly environment for everyone to enjoy. From pioneering laws to thriving cannabis cultures, these nations stand out for their progressive stances on cannabis.
Here are 7 most weed-friendly countries for tourists to travel to.
1. Canada: A Cannabis Pioneer
Canada set a precedent in 2018 by becoming the second country in the world to fully legalize cannabis for recreational use, following Uruguay. This bold move solidified Canada’s position as a weed-friendly trailblazer in cannabis reform. Each province regulates the distribution, sale, and consumption of cannabis. Adults aged 18 or 19 and above (depending on the province) can purchase cannabis from licensed dispensaries and online stores.
Legal Status: Cannabis is legal for both recreational and medicinal use across the country.
Culture and Highlights: Cannabis consumption is generally accepted in private homes and some designated public areas. Canadian cities, such as Toronto and Vancouver, have become hubs for cannabis tourism, offering tours of dispensaries and cannabis lounges. Check out our article here for upcoming cannabis events in Canada!
2. Uruguay: The First Weed-Friendly Country to Legalize
Uruguay was the first country globally to legalize cannabis entirely, paving the way for other nations to follow. Uruguayan citizens and legal residents can grow up to six plants at home, join cannabis clubs, or buy pharmacies. However, tourists cannot purchase cannabis legally.
Legal Status: Fully legal for both recreational and medical use.
Culture and Highlights: Uruguay’s cannabis culture is laid-back, and the country prioritizes public health and safety. Like many legalizations for controversial topics, Uruguay’s legalization model focuses on preventing drug trafficking and providing safe access to cannabis through legal regulation.
3. Netherlands: The Iconic Cannabis Destination
The Netherlands, particularly Amsterdam, has long been associated with cannabis culture due to its iconic coffee shops. While technically illegal, Dutch law allows the sale of small amounts (up to 5 grams) of cannabis in licensed coffee shops. Growing cannabis, however, is still illegal but tolerated in small quantities.
Legal Status: Cannabis is decriminalized and tolerated in designated coffee shops.
Culture and Highlights: The Netherlands is famous for its relaxed approach to cannabis, and Amsterdam is a global hotspot for cannabis enthusiasts. Coffee shops are scattered throughout the city, each with its unique atmosphere and selection.
4. Spain: Cannabis Clubs and a Thriving Culture
Spain has a unique approach to cannabis, centered around private cannabis clubs and a tolerant attitude toward personal use. While the sale of cannabis is illegal, private cannabis clubs operate in a legal gray area. These clubs function as member-only associations where adults can purchase and consume cannabis in a private setting.
Legal Status: Cannabis is decriminalized for personal use in private spaces.
Culture and Highlights: Cities like Barcelona and Madrid are home to numerous cannabis clubs, each offering a different experience. These clubs are popular among locals and tourists, providing a safe and controlled environment for cannabis consumption.
5. Portugal: Leading with Decriminalization
Portugal has been at the forefront of drug reform since decriminalizing all drugs, including cannabis, in 2001. While cannabis possession and use are decriminalized, buying and selling are still illegal. Individuals caught with small amounts of cannabis face no criminal charges but may receive administrative penalties, such as fines or community service.
Legal Status: Cannabis is decriminalized for personal use.
Culture and Highlights: Portugal’s approach to drug policy focuses on public health and harm reduction. The country has seen a decrease in drug-related issues since decriminalization, and cannabis culture is growing, especially in cities like Lisbon and Porto.
6. Jamaica: The Spiritual Home of Cannabis
Forget just being weed-friendly––Jamaica is synonymous with cannabis, thanks to its rich cultural and spiritual connection to the plant. In 2015, Jamaica amended its laws to decriminalize the possession of small amounts (up to 2 ounces) of cannabis. Rastafarians are allowed to use cannabis for religious purposes, and individuals can grow up to five plants for personal use.
Legal Status: Cannabis is decriminalized for personal use and legal for religious purposes.
Culture and Highlights: Cannabis is deeply rooted in Jamaican culture, with many locals and tourists participating in ganja tours and visiting cannabis farms. The country’s annual Rastafari Rootzfest celebrates the cultural and spiritual significance of cannabis.
7. Thailand: A Newcomer to Legalization
Thailand recently made headlines by becoming the first Southeast Asian, weed-friendly country to legalize cannabis. In 2018, Thailand legalized cannabis for medical use, and in 2022, the government allowed individuals to grow up to six cannabis plants at home for personal use. But be careful when traveling around Southeast Asian countries. Many tourists like to hop from one country to the next due to cheap flights and short travel, but Singapore––one of Thailand’s neighboring countries––is known for having some of the “strictest drug policies,” leading to potential arrests.
Legal Status: Legal for medical use and personal cultivation.
Culture and Highlights: Thailand’s cannabis culture is evolving, with an increasing number of dispensaries and cannabis cafes opening across the country. The Thai government is also promoting cannabis tourism, hoping to attract visitors interested in the plant’s medicinal and recreational benefits.
