Golden Years and Green Tours: Elevating the Travel Experience for Cannabis-Conscious Seniors; Hopes for a Kamala Harris Presidency Sparks a Wave of CBC and Inaugural Enthusiasm

Aug 24, 2024

With the legalization of cannabis sweeping across various localities, states, and even countries, cannabis tourism has become an emerging trend. These tours offer enthusiasts and curious travelers an opportunity to learn about the cultivation, history, and use of cannabis, all while enjoying the cultural and natural beauty of the destinations. For older adults, who might be exploring cannabis for wellness or recreational purposes, choosing the right tour can make all the difference. This guide will take you through some of the top cannabis tours, what to look for when selecting a tour, and potential pitfalls to avoid.

Top Cannabis Tours Around the World

California, USA: Emerald Triangle Tours
- Region: Northern California (Humboldt, Mendocino, and Trinity counties)
- Highlights: The Emerald Triangle is renowned as one of the largest cannabis-producing regions in the United States. Tours often include visits to organic cannabis farms, where participants can learn about sustainable growing practices, meet local farmers, and sample products. The tours also explore the history of cannabis in the region, including its role in local culture and economy.
- Why It's Great for Older Adults: These tours emphasize education and responsible consumption, making them ideal for older adults who are new to cannabis or interested in the medicinal aspects.
Colorado, USA: My 420 Tours
- Region: Denver, Colorado
- Highlights: Colorado, one of the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, offers a variety of tours through My 420 Tours. These include visits to dispensaries, grow facilities, and even cooking classes that teach participants how to make cannabis-infused edibles. The tours are professional, well-organized, and cater to various interests.
- Why It's Great for Older Adults: My 420 Tours provides a safe and welcoming environment for older adults, with options for low-intensity activities and a focus on wellness, such as CBD-infused spa treatments.
Canada: Canadian Kush Tours
- Region: British Columbia and Ontario
- Highlights: Canada’s full legalization of cannabis has paved the way for a variety of tours. Canadian Kush Tours offers experiences like cannabis and wine tasting in the Okanagan Valley or a cannabis-infused fine dining experience in Toronto. The tours are designed to be educational and luxurious, focusing on high-quality products.
- Why It's Great for Older Adults: The luxury and relaxed pace of these tours, combined with a focus on gourmet experiences, make them an excellent choice for older adults looking for a sophisticated and enjoyable introduction to cannabis.
The Netherlands: Amsterdam Cannabis Culture Tour
- Region: Amsterdam
- Highlights: Amsterdam has long been known for its liberal stance on cannabis, and this tour takes visitors through the city’s famous coffee shops, cannabis museums, and seed shops. The tour also delves into the history and impact of cannabis on Dutch culture.
- Why It's Great for Older Adults: The tour offers a cultural experience with plenty of opportunities to enjoy Amsterdam’s other attractions. It’s perfect for older adults who want to experience cannabis in a well-regulated and historic environment.
Jamaica: Ganja Gurus
- Region: Various locations in Jamaica
- Highlights: Jamaica’s deep cultural ties to cannabis, especially through Rastafarianism, make it a unique destination for cannabis tourism. Ganja Gurus offers tours that include visits to local farms, cooking classes, and even spiritual experiences with Rastafarian guides.
- Why It's Great for Older Adults: The tour’s focus on the spiritual and cultural aspects of cannabis, combined with Jamaica’s laid-back vibe, creates a relaxed and enriching experience for older adults.
Oregon, USA: The Portlandia Experience
- Region: Portland, Oregon
- Highlights: Portland is known for its vibrant cannabis culture, and The Portlandia Experience takes visitors on a journey through some of the city's best dispensaries, grow operations, and even glassblowing studios where participants can see how cannabis accessories are made. The tour also includes visits to iconic Portland landmarks, combining cannabis exploration with a broader cultural experience.
- Why It's Great for Older Adults: This tour balances cannabis education with cultural sightseeing, making it ideal for older adults who want to enjoy the broader attractions of Portland while learning about cannabis in a relaxed and engaging environment.
Spain: Barcelona Cannabis Club Tours
- Region: Barcelona, Spain
- Highlights: Barcelona is home to a thriving cannabis club scene, where members can legally consume cannabis in a private, social setting. These tours provide access to some of the city's most exclusive cannabis clubs, along with guided walks through the historic Gothic Quarter and visits to local markets. Participants learn about the unique legal framework in Spain and the cultural significance of cannabis clubs.
- Why It's Great for Older Adults: The relaxed pace of the tours, combined with the opportunity to experience cannabis in a social and cultural setting, makes this a great option for older adults who appreciate a more intimate and community-focused experience.
Uruguay: Cannabis Cultural Tours
- Region: Montevideo, Uruguay
- Highlights: As the first country in the world to fully legalize cannabis, Uruguay offers a unique perspective on cannabis culture. These tours typically include visits to licensed grow facilities, cannabis-themed art galleries, and discussions with local activists who were instrumental in the legalization movement. The tours often conclude with a cannabis tasting session at a scenic location overlooking the Rio de la Plata.
- Why It's Great for Older Adults: Uruguay’s progressive stance on cannabis, combined with its rich cultural heritage, provides a fascinating backdrop for older adults interested in both the political and social aspects of cannabis legalization.

What Older Adults Should Look for When Choosing a Cannabis Tour

Focus on Education and Wellness:
- Older adults, particularly those who may be new to cannabis, should look for tours that emphasize education. This includes learning about the plant, its various uses, and the science behind cannabis. Wellness-focused tours that explore the medicinal benefits of cannabis, such as pain relief or anxiety reduction, can be particularly valuable.
Accessibility and Comfort:
- Consider the physical demands of the tour. Many older adults may prefer tours that offer comfortable transportation, accessible venues, and activities that do not require extensive walking or standing. It’s important to check if the tour is accommodating to individuals with mobility issues.
Safety and Legality:
- Ensure that the tour operates in regions where cannabis is legal and that the tour company follows all local regulations. This includes checking that the cannabis provided is lab-tested and safe for consumption. Some tours also offer guidance on responsible usage, which is crucial for those new to cannabis.
Reputable Operators:
- Research the reputation of the tour operator. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous participants, especially those in your age group. A reputable operator will prioritize the safety, education, and overall experience of their guests.
Cultural Sensitivity:
- Cannabis has different cultural connotations around the world. It’s important to choose a tour that respects and honors the local culture and practices. For instance, in Jamaica, the spiritual aspect of cannabis is deeply significant, and tours that respect this will provide a more authentic and enriching experience.

Potential Problems to Avoid

Overconsumption:
- One of the biggest risks for older adults on cannabis tours is overconsumption, especially for those who are new to cannabis. The effects can be unpredictable, and it’s easy to consume more than intended, particularly with edibles. Look for tours that offer low-dose options and clear guidance on consumption.
Unregulated Tours:
- Be wary of tours that operate in the gray area of legality or do not follow local regulations. Unregulated tours might offer products that are not lab-tested or safe, leading to potential health risks.
Physical Exertion:
- Some tours may involve long hikes, extensive walking, or other physically demanding activities that might not be suitable for everyone. Always check the itinerary and assess your physical comfort level before booking.
Cultural Misunderstandings:
- Cannabis tourism can sometimes lead to cultural misunderstandings, especially in regions where cannabis holds significant cultural or religious meaning. It’s important to be respectful of local customs and to choose tours that emphasize cultural education.
Unfamiliar Environments:
- Traveling to a new region or country can be disorienting, especially if you’re also trying cannabis for the first time. It’s important to choose tours that offer a familiar and supportive environment, with guides who are knowledgeable and approachable.

Cannabis tourism offers an exciting and educational way for older adults to explore the world of cannabis in a safe and controlled environment. By choosing the right tour, older adults can enjoy the many benefits of cannabis, whether for wellness, recreation, or cultural enrichment. Remember to prioritize education, safety, and comfort when selecting a tour, and always approach cannabis with a sense of curiosity and respect. Whether you’re exploring the lush cannabis farms of Northern California or the historic coffee shops of Amsterdam, there’s a cannabis tour out there that’s perfect for you.

With Hopeful Anticipation of a Harris Inauguration D.C. Hotel Rooms Are in Short Supply

In recent days, social media users have been taken aback by the limited availability of hotel rooms so far in advance of the January 20th Presidential Inauguration date, which also coincides with Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. This surge has sparked widespread concerns over skyrocketing prices. Rooms in some of Washington’s most in-demand properties are currently listed at more than $1,000 per night. Many, who want to be present at what could be a historical event that could see the swearing-in of the first female and Black president have voiced their frustrations. The exorbitant cost of lodging will force many to witness the event from home.

Meanwhile, those who have secured their accommodations feel as if they’ve hit the lottery, although the rates are deal breakers for most. According to The Washington Post, the Willard InterContinental, which is near the White House “is offering its lowest-priced rooms for MLK weekend at a staggering $2,851 per night. Similarly, the Marriott at Metro Center has rates starting at $1,344 per night, a significant jump from the $242 per night available the weekend before.”

Tourism officials attribute the high demand to the historical nature of the presidential election and the fact that the last Inauguration was scaled down due to the pandemic and the January 6th attacks. It’s also believed that many hotels are retaining their inventory to reserve blocks for large groups, while others are waiting until after the election to release rooms to also focus on group bookings. Travelers hoping to secure accommodations for the event may find it challenging both logistically and financially, as high-end hotels are already filling up with foreign dignitaries and other visitors. My advice is to look at hotels in close-in areas of Virginia and Maryland adjacent to Metro stations or relatively affordable ride sharing. Good luck.