I have to say that this is probably the only thread I've read from beginning to end. So kudos on that! On to my points...
You started out in high (
) hopes of what the Cannabis Cup could offer. Yet, after you'd seen the whole ordeal you weren't satisfied... understandable. By reading this thread with all the comments and your insight, a reader is able to make conclusions on certain events. Seems to me that all these growers are out to benefit themselves, as you say. Human greed steps into the picture and, as a result, no one is getting the full benefit of the cause. To support the claim, the natives seem to agree with you (Zach and the grower) and they seemed cool. It's a great skill to be able to absorb people into conversation, and you seemed to have no difficulty in the matter.
Yet many seek to go to Amsterdam because of its lenient laws against cannabis. I live in Europe and quite close to the Netherlands. I could pay 80 bucks for a flight ticket and be there in a matter of a couple of hours, yet I have not done so. I've wanted to read about what goes on in the Coffeeshops as well as in the back alleys. There seems to be lots of trade between growers and shops, and then the shops disguising their product to benefit themselves yet again. To lure tourists into Amsterdam is no hard feat, especially for those that want to go and toke up big time
Yet I cannot blame the system for doing what they do, as we are all in it to survive. The same happens in every country in every market... products are disguised from what they really are to attract buyers. If everyone knew what the Coffeeshops are really selling, then I bet the tourists would rather get some weed off of their dealers in their home countries.
Also, with increasing publications of works in the art of Cannabis, people are beginning to take advantage of the system. Many see an open opportunity and stick their foots through the threshold to become a part of the system. This way dealers, growers and bigger factors can and, most likely will, play the people underneath them. What a shame it is, but I've learned to accept it. Hence, I don't buy weed anymore, but I don't grow either. I have a mutual way of acquiring my herb, and let's leave it at that
What seemed to really open my eyes about Amsterdam through this report (don't mind me calling it that, do you? This seemed more like a spiritual guide of some sort...) was the fact that it's an ordinary city, with the exception that Cannabis is decriminalized. Does that fact change the whole concept of traveling from across the world to see the city's shops? I guess you expected the Cup to be something of a spiritual trip, but unfortunately you were let down. At least you seemed to take everything in with quite an open mind and enjoyed the trip overall.
Great read, +rep, and I hope my points seem somewhat clear
I'll be looking forward to more threads and posts from you.
Indeed, stay high
I guess I oppose of politics in Cannabis. Making something sacred and mind-altering into something dangerous and negative is something I cannot accept, ever. For now, peace and keep toking!