High Times Ahead: Cannabis Tourism and Its Impact on Travel
*Subtitle: How Cannabis Enthusiasts Are Shaping the Future of Travel*
Travel has undergone a transformative journey of its own since the onset of COVID-19. With a growing number of Americans embracing marijuana products, both for recreational and medicinal purposes, the concept of cannabis tourism has emerged as a potential savior for the travel industry. Let's explore how this budding trend is taking root and what it means for travelers.
**A Surging Interest in Cannabis Tourism**
Surprisingly, a 2020 report revealed that a substantial portion of active leisure travelers in the United States (29%) expressed a desire to engage in cannabis-related activities while on vacation. This trend is not confined to a niche; 18% of all Americans have shown interest in exploring cannabis tourism. Moreover, it's not just wishful thinking - 25% of survey respondents have already traveled to destinations specifically for cannabis-related experiences. This includes a staggering 44% of Millennials and Generation Z travelers.
**Cannabis Legislation in the U.S.**
As of September 2021, recreational cannabis consumption has been legalized in 19 states, Washington D.C., Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands. Medical use of cannabis is legal in 36 states, the District of Columbia, and four U.S. territories. However, it's crucial to note that cannabis remains illegal at the federal level under the Controlled Substances Act. This legal contradiction complicates travel for cannabis enthusiasts, as transporting marijuana across state lines is prohibited.
**Cannabis and Hospitality**
The potential synergy between cannabis and the hospitality industry cannot be overlooked. When Colorado and Washington legalized recreational cannabis in 2014, hotel bookings in these states experienced notable growth, increasing by 3.5% and 6%-7.2%, respectively. Average room rates in Colorado surged by 3.8%, demonstrating the lucrative opportunities cannabis tourism can offer to the hotel sector.
**Cannabis as a Destination Differentiator**
Cannabis availability might become a distinctive factor in the fiercely competitive destination market. As more countries move toward legalization, unique attractions like cannabis-centric spas or yoga retreats could lure tourists seeking novel experiences. Mexico, for example, is on the path to legalization, potentially opening doors to innovative cannabis-related tourist offerings.
**A Myriad of Cannabis Travel Experiences**
Cannabis tourism is not limited to a singular experience. Travelers can explore various activities, including:
- Visiting cannabis growing facilities.
- Touring dispensaries, such as the 115,000 sq. foot Planet 13 in Las Vegas.
- Embarking on a "420" bus tour.
- Trying CBD- or THC-infused beverages and edibles.
- Indulging in spa treatments featuring CBD products.
- Sampling cannabis at "420 hotels."
- Participating in cannabis-themed dinners and "cannabis karaoke."
- Enrolling in classes like "Puff, Pass & Paint," "Introductory Cooking with Cannabis," and "Puff, Pass & Pincushion."
**Cannabis Tourism Destinations Across the U.S.**
Cannabis enthusiasts have a range of destinations to choose from within the United States, including:
- "Bud and Breakfasts" in Massachusetts and Oregon.
- California, where tourists can enjoy activities like "yoga on a high" and savor cannabis-infused cocktails.
- Maine, where establishments like Higher Grounds combine cafes with dispensaries.
- Colorado, offering tours of cannabis farms, specialized lounges, and unique experiences like sushi and joint rolling classes.
**Cannabis Usage in the United States**
Marijuana has gained popularity among Americans, with 49% having tried it according to an August Gallup poll. Furthermore, 12% of American adults are regular marijuana users, marking a significant increase from 2013 when only 7% fell into this category. Millennials, a prime demographic for travel, lead the way, with 20% using marijuana, compared to 11% of Gen Xers and 9% of baby boomers.
**The Rise of CBD**
CBD, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis and hemp, has seen widespread use for pain relief and inflammation. About 33% of Americans have tried CBD products, with 64% of users employing CBD for pain management. This non-psychoactive form of cannabis has become increasingly popular, with 45% of current CBD users reporting increased usage since the COVID-19 pandemic.
**Traveling with CBD**
The good news for travelers looking to bring CBD products on their journeys is that it's legal to travel with hemp-derived CBD as long as the THC content remains below 0.3%. This distinction allows travelers to access the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD without violating any federal regulations.
As cannabis and its derivatives continue to shape the travel landscape, the future holds exciting possibilities for both enthusiasts and the travel industry. While certain legal hurdles persist, the growing acceptance of cannabis suggests that we may see an even more robust cannabis tourism sector emerge in the years to come.
