In 2017, the global legal cannabis market had an estimated value of US $7.7 billion. 90% of that comes from the United States, which experts believe will go down to 57% because of Canada.
But as more countries gear up to relax their marijuana laws, this market may reach $146.4 billion in 2025.
For consumers, especially traveling tokers, relaxed laws mean more 420 friendly vacations! Best of all, not all cannabis friendly cities are here in the west. So, if you have the budget, go all out and head to the Caribbean or to South America.
If you don’t, well, no need to worry as we here in the west have our fair share of weed-friendly vacay spots. We’ve listed the best ones, so be sure to include them all in your bucket list!
Jamaica
If you haven’t been to the Caribbean, now’s the time to, and for two good enough reasons: Jamaica and weed.
Imagine yourself surrounded by lush mountains, beautiful beaches, and flourishing rainforests. While you’re all toked up.
What a vacay, right? But first, a quick cultural lesson.
So, “The Ganja” to the Jamaicans, weed in this country isn’t only for recreation. They regard it as a spiritual drug, smoking it during religious ceremonies. In fact, the Rastafarian country is the first ever to legalize marijuana use for religion.
It wasn’t always legal, but a 2015 law amendment made it so for both personal and medicinal uses. You can’t buy it for fun, but if you have a medical marijuana recommendation, you can. And yes, even if an American or Canadian doctor signed that document.
Uruguay
Back in 2014, Uruguay legalized cannabis use and possession. That paved the way for this country to become one of the top weed vacations in South America. It’s completely legal to light up here for recreation.
Plus, the country is home to what’s likely the most chilled-out capital in the world, Montevideo. The locals are friendly, there’s a lot of wine and prime beef, and loads of outdoor adventure. To top it all off, this where some of the most amazing Atlantic beaches are.
Toronto
Had to mention our beloved city! Torontonians celebrate 420 in five (or more) ways, including holding marijuana appreciation parties. We even have comedy fests and cannabis conferences. And in case you haven’t read about it, recreational pot is now legal in Canada.
That means you can walk into one of the dispensaries that line our pretty streets and buy pre-rolls. If fresh, dried, or milled flowers are more of your thing, don’t worry, these stores have your back. You can also buy oil which you can use to make these delish cannabis recipes.
Make sure you stick to 30 grams of dried flowers though, or 150 grams for the fresh ones. For concentrates, 7.5 grams is your limit. These are the max amounts you can buy every day, otherwise, you may find yourself hauled downtown.
Friendly reminder: In Ontario, it’s only legal to smoke weed in private properties. Good news is, you can take marijuana vacations in Toronto’s very own 420 friendly lodgings.
Colorado
In to outdoor activities much? Then head to mountainous Colorado, one of the first U.S. states to legalize recreational pot. Denver, in particular, is very welcoming to tokers who want the best weed vacations.
Here, you’ll find 420 friendly services like mobile cannabis lounges and weed tours. Also, check in one of the bud and breakfast options here, which often offer dispensary coupons. Don’t worry if the munchies hit you, as Denver is home to many brews and bud tours.
California
California became the first state to legalize medical cannabis in 1996. It took a while for the state to give recreational pot the green light, but at least it finally did last year.
Today, there are about 100 dispensaries where you can stroll in to buy weed like candy bars. Californians can also grow pot for personal use, which they can choose to “gift” to their other toker pals.
There are plenty of 420 friendly accommodations here, like Hicksville Pines in Hollywood. Feel free to lounge and smoke in one of the public areas, while chatting with other weed enthusiasts. If you’re up for some coffee and snacks, hit up the Hitman Coffee Shop, which you can get a day pass for.
Washington
Seattle is one of the top spots for solid weed-friendly vacations because it’s one of the greenest. We mean that in a literal and figurative sense.
Seattle’s fondly known as the Emerald City, because it lies in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Which, if you haven’t heard or seen, is such a magnificent green. Plus, it’s one of the two first U.S. states (the other being Colorado) to legalize recreational pot.
Nevada
There’s more to Nevada’s Vegas than casinos and slots, with canna friendly vacays being much more fun. The state, in general, now lets consumers buy weed for recreational use, so long as they’re 21 years or older. The friendly folks at the dispensaries can even help you compare your best bud options.
Take your roller coaster or gondola ride to a whole new level by toking up before boarding. If you want more greens around you, you can head to The Mirage and relax in their indoor gardens. End the day with a final toke in your 420 friendly hotel room or private lodging.
Alaska
Alaska is already majestic on its own, with its breathtaking landscapes and scenery. But its recent legalization of recreational pot made it even more appealing. Stores have opened up from Anchorage to Sitka.
Make sure you have your I.D. with you, as all dispensaries will ask you to show it. You have to be at least 21 before you can buy and carry an ounce of pot. Gifting is also allowed here, but only up to an ounce.
420 Friendly Vacations = High Times & Happy Times
Head on to these spots offering the best 420 friendly vacations, and you’re sure to have an amazing trip. With these weed-friendly destinations, you don’t have to worry about cops being on your heels.
All packed up but still short on budget? We’ve got the right guide for you. Check out our recommendations on what to do to get that dough for your trip.
