Smoking weed at home is great, however, looking at the same surroundings can be less than inspiring. Expand your mind, invigorate the senses, and experience spiritual enlightenment on an entirely new level by visiting our shortlist of five inspiring locations.
The world is a beautiful place. It’s big, it is almost definitely round, and it is riddled with natural wonders that have to be seen to be believed. Marijuana has the power to open our minds, enhance visuals, and make us more in tune with our senses. All 5 of the following locations have something in common; they will engage your mind and body on all levels.
Some destinations are steeped in a history of spiritual enlightenment, while others activate the senses until it feels like the buildings surrounding you are living, breathing entities.
1. Manali valley, India
Nestled deep in the mountains of the Kullu Valley, Manali Valley has a history of spiritualism—be it the valley’s mystical ties to the sage Manu who is said to have stepped off his ark in Manali to recreate human life, or the haven it provided for the hippie movement in the 1960s. Manali also marks the start of an ancient trade route that would take merchants through Ladakh, Karakoram Pass and into Tarim Basin.
Manali’s link to cannabis goes more in-depth than purely offering a place to feel at one with the universe. The region was, and still partly is to a degree, famous for its old-school hash. No advanced techniques here; instead, hashish is made via the vigorous rubbing of buds until the trichomes break off. If modern life has you yearning for a disconnect, the “Valley of the Gods” will offer respite.
2. Rif mountains, Morocco
Morocco has dominated the cannabis black markets of Europe for decades. Where better to enjoy cannabis and the epic beauty of the world than a mountain range that produces some of the dankest hash available? Any visits to the Rif mountains will be filled with hikes and inspirational views of the region. It is therefore a good idea to pack a decent pair of walking boots.
It isn’t uncommon for taxi drivers, merchants on the street, even hotels to offer the commodity they are most proud of, traditional hash or “kif.” If you are an unseasoned cannabis lover, proceed with caution; years of expertise means many products can be incredibly strong, and it's impossible to tell how potent the weed you are smoking is until it hits you like a train.
3. De Ruijterkade, Amsterdam
It would be easy to feature several cities from around the world; however, Amsterdam holds a special place in many weed-lovers’ hearts, and for a good reason. The waterways form an integral part of the city’s charm, providing access routes via the boats docked throughout the canal system.
De Ruijterkade refers to a specific street that ends at the quay behind central station. Built in 1880, the quay was named after Michiel Adriaenszoon de Ruyter who lived nearby. What makes this area of Amsterdam so unique and inspiring? Put simply, the view over the water captures a hub of activity. De Ruijterkade was painted by Vincent van Gogh in 1885 and as you can see the city has changed a lot...
4. Andes mountain, Chili
If the idea of being high and staying active on some premium sativa sounds like a trip you can get behind, the Andes mountain range may be just the place for you. The Andes is one of the world’s natural wonders, and while it is difficult to pinpoint just a few poignant facts, we will try.
The Andes spans seven countries, is the source of the Amazon River, and at its highest peak is a mind-blowing 6,263 meters above sea level. Now that the geography lesson is out of the way, what makes it such a special place for weed-lovers to visit? Two words, the view.
No other place on earth offers a view that will make you feel like you are on top of the world, although the reality is you won't be far off. If you do venture high enough, it is possible to see the entire continent of South America from left to right.
5. Jamaica
Imagine falling further and further into a sun lounger while overlooking crystal clear oceans and white sandy beaches. No, you are not dreaming, that is the reality that faces those who make the trip to the third-largest island in the Caribbean, Jamaica.
Jamaican culture embodies the very soul of marijuana. The legend Bob Marley was born there, and if it's good enough for him, it is good enough for lovers of ol’ Mary Jane. Venture inland, and you’ll be met by one of the most diverse collections of plants and animals anywhere in the world. Sit back, relax, and let your mind marvel at the spectacle that is the Jamaican landscape.
