South Africa just manages to squeeze into the top 15 destinations rated by American cannabis connoisseurs, coming in at No 15.  Although consumption is only legally allowed in private, and consuming in public may open one up to arrest, SA is perceived as having a vibrant cannabis culture that has international appeal.

That’s according to a survey by Weedar which analysed Conde Naste Travel’s 48 most popular destinations and ranked them based on four factors:

• Is cannabis legal there?

• How much does it cost?

• What penalties might you face for small possession?

• How many people use cannabis in the area?

Because, let’s be real, a holiday without a little green is like a sandwich without bread.

For the most fascinating insight into international cannabis trends and pricing, drill deep into the Weedar report.

Weeder does not go into much detail about South African canna-tourism but this is the intel the Americans are publicizing about the country, the only African destination to be included:

Is cannabis legal there?

Partly legal

How much does it cost?

US5,7/gram

What penalties might you face for small possession?

None, if consumed in private

How many people use cannabis in the area?

3,6% of the population

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The top five cannatourism destinations for US stoners:

1. Canada 

Cannabis status: legal

Cannabis cost per gram: $6,9

Penalties for possession of small amounts:  no

Annual cannabis use indicator: 27%

Canada is a world leader in progressive drug policy, having become only the second country after Uruguay to fully legalize the cultivation, possession, acquisition, and consumption of cannabis and its by-products.  With prices averaging an affordable $7 per gram, you can legally carry up to 30g and smoke in public places without worrying about cops sniffing around. If you need some scenery to enhance your high, Canada’s got you covered with its stunning mountains, lakes, and waterfalls.

2. Mexico 

Cannabis status: legal

Cannabis cost per gram: $7,9

Penalties for possession of small amounts: no

Annual cannabis use indicator: 2.1%

Cannabis in Mexico is legal for recreational and medicinal purposes, with users allowed to carry up to 28g, making it a safe place for cannabis enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite plant. It’s also cheap — but it might be best to steer clear of busy areas when you light up… The Mexican people aren’t weed’s biggest fans with only 33% of the population supporting its legalization for recreational use. 

Nevertheless, the country's strong cannabis culture — and plenty of beaches, jungles, and ancient ruins to explore and enhance the high — makes it ideal for a stoner's holiday.

3. Australia 

Cannabis status: partly legal

Cannabis cost per gram: $10,1

Penalties for possession of small amounts: no (a warning and a counseling session may be issued in some regions)

Annual cannabis use indicator: 11.6%

Australia may be a world away, but it’s definitely worth the journey. With its unique wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and progressive cannabis policies, it's a destination like no other. In 2019, the Australian Capital Territory passed a bill allowing for the possession and growth of small amounts (up to 50g) of cannabis for personal use. Despite the fact this conflicts with federal laws that prohibit recreational use, police in many areas take a relaxed approach, making it a relatively safe area for cannabis users to take a hit. While cannabis can be slightly expensive at around $10 per gram, you will find that many people in Australia are avid smokers, so there’s no shortage of good quality bud to be found.

4. Italy 

Cannabis status:  decriminalized

Cannabis cost per gram: $9,5

Penalties for possession of small amounts: no (a warning may be issued)      

Annual cannabis use indicator: 10.2%

Italy is also high on the list of must-visit destinations for cannabis enthusiasts. Possession of small amounts of cannabis is decriminalized and, at most, you will receive a warning and a formal request to stop using cannabis rather than facing any significant penalties. Plus, at a cost of around $9,5 per gram, it’s a fairly affordable option too — so you can save your budget to gorge on Italy’s world-famous foods when the munchies hit. With its stunning architecture, beautiful countryside, and rich history, Italy offers a wealth of opportunities for travelers to indulge in the country's culture and beauty. And, with an annual cannabis use indicator of 10.2%, you won’t be the only one taking advantage of Italy’s relaxed cannabis laws.

5. Netherlands  

Cannabis status: decriminalized

Cannabis cost per gram: $9,6

Penalties for possession of small amounts:  no

Annual cannabis use indicator: 10,1%

A global leader in progressive drug policy, the Netherlands has been allowing visitors to light up for more than 50 years. While smoking in the streets is still frowned upon, cannabis is openly sold in its world-famous coffee shops (you’ll never have to walk too far to find one) and decriminalized for personal use. It’s no wonder that its capital city, Amsterdam, has become synonymous with weed.

Home to hash museums and the annual ‘Cannabis Cup’, countless weed tours and an abundance of food halls for when the munchies hit, there are few places more welcoming to the 

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