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There are, in fact, loads of countries where marijuana has been legalised, decriminalised or just socially mainstreamed enough that even if you are technically breaking the law a bit, no one will bother you about it. Here are five countries where smoking weed wouldn’t land you behind bars.
1. Canada
On October 17, 2018, Canada legalized recreational marijuana in full. Growers can get licensed by the federal government, and then individual provinces determine how the product gets distributed and sold. It isn’t heavily advertised though — the attitude here is that the government will sign off, but not promote.
2. Belize
In late 2017, the government of Belize was kind enough to decriminalize cannabis in amounts up to 10 grams. You can smoke it in your home, or someone else’s provided you’ve gotten explicit permission.
3. Ecuador
Ecuador is one of the chiller countries when it comes to marijuana policy. While it’s still illegal to cultivate and sell it, when it comes to personal use you’re cool so long as you don’t exceed 10 grams.
4. The Netherlands
While weed has been legal to smoke in coffee shops in the Netherlands for decades, it’s been illegal to grow. But in 2017, a bill to partially legalize marijuana cultivation showed that the country may hopefully be headed for full legalization, which is excellent news for the many, many citizens who enjoy getting a little weird. Stick to the coffee shops maybe, but enjoy.
5. Switzerland
Possession of small amounts has been decriminalized, and there’s a push to get some cannabis clubs going. You can also grow up to four hemp plants here if that’s your thing.
6. Jamaica
Jamaica is another super chill place to light up one. They have decriminalised weed since 2015, and if you happen to be a Rastafarian, you can use unlimited quantities with no repercussions. Well, their public image of consuming ganja, internationally, is usually culturally tied to Rastafari and reggae music.
7. Uruguay
Hands down, this is the first woke country to legalise marijuana for people belonging to the 18 years of age group and above.
However, it is the people’s responsibility to make sure they officially register with the government before they engage in any buying, selling, or growing. As of 2017, you can buy commercial grass in Uruguay from regular old pharmacies.