Amidst the cultural curiosity surrounding marijuana, a Japanese tourist in Bangkok decides to experiment with the recently legalized drug. With a sense of intrigue, he purchases a gram of cannabis from a local weed shop and proceeds to grind it in a small black grinder, expertly rolling it into a joint. This experience is his first encounter with marijuana, evident from the slight spillage of buds on the smoking lounge’s table and his cough as he takes a deep inhale.
In contrast to most Asian countries with strict drug laws and severe penalties, Thailand’s progressive approach to marijuana has attracted a wave of tourists, including the Japanese visitor, seeking the thrill of engaging with the forbidden leaf. Fearful of potential legal consequences back home, the tourist, who wishes to remain anonymous, holds reservations about openly discussing his experimentation in Bangkok.
Reflecting on Japan’s ban on marijuana, he ponders the reason behind it, expressing a desire to explore the effects of the drug himself. His curiosity leads him to pursue this experience despite potential repercussions.
As the global trend towards marijuana legalization gains momentum, Thailand stands out as the leader in Asia. While numerous Asian countries still enforce the death penalty for cannabis-related offenses, Thailand’s more lenient stance has cultivated the growth of marijuana tourism. However, neighboring nations such as Singapore and China remain cautious, warning their citizens about the legality of marijuana consumption abroad and the potential legal consequences upon their return. Authorities in these countries have refrained from revealing the frequency of testing citizens returning from countries with decriminalized marijuana.
The underground marijuana industry in Thailand has swiftly transformed into a flourishing market, with dispensaries sprouting up across the capital. Licensed cannabis-related businesses have reached nearly 6,000, including over 1,600 in Bangkok alone. Although official statistics do not indicate the exact number of tourists who specifically travel to Thailand for marijuana use, Kueakarun Thongwilai, the manager of a central Bangkok weed shop, estimates that approximately 70%-80% of his customers are foreigners, predominantly from Asian countries like Japan, Malaysia, China, the Philippines, and a few from Europe.
In response to the surge in foreign customers, most cannabis shops in Thailand, including Thongwilai’s, now prioritize hiring employees who speak English fluently. Consequently, Thongwilai asserts that effective communication is crucial, enabling his shop to cater to a diverse range of customers.
While newcomers to cannabis may be inclined to explore edible products, Thongwilai urges caution, recommending smoking as the initial method of consumption. He argues that edibles take longer to produce an effect, potentially leading to excessive consumption and overwhelming experiences for inexperienced users.
Although many customers prefer to maintain their privacy, a few are open about their marijuana experiences. Thongwilai recounts the story of a Malaysian customer who discreetly left a family meal to experience the reputed quality of Thai marijuana. The customer’s satisfaction prompted him to return to the shop for more.
At Dutch Passion, a newly established retail branch of a Netherlands seed distributor, roughly half of the customers are also first-time users. Theo Geene, a Dutch shareholder in the business, emphasizes the importance of responsible service for newcomers, advising against using bongs, which may be overwhelming for them. Geene draws upon the Netherlands’ extensive history with marijuana to train his staff in catering to unfamiliar customers.
With Asian customers often exercising caution and discretion, opting to consume their purchases indoors rather than openly on the streets, the culture surrounding marijuana in Thailand varies from that of Western countries. To avoid potential legal issues, Asian tourists are more wary and diligent when it comes to their marijuana consumption.
Prior to embarking on his trip to Thailand, the Japanese tourist conducted thorough research, assuring himself that there were no tests for marijuana upon return to Japan. Over the past two weeks, he has indulged in daily marijuana consumption, visiting various shops, comparing prices, and sampling different strains. Dispensary staff have imparted their knowledge to him, teaching him how to grind buds and roll joints, leading to his amusement as he perfects his technique through daily practice.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
