Hello all first post as a member of Grasscity. I've been reading this forum for years and figured it was my time to give back so here I am. Anyways, I'm 18 currently in my senior year of highschool. My sister, who's in college now, travelled Europe for 5 months last summer funded completely by herself. So that got me thinking why not me? My plan is to do much the same as her, save up about 6-7 thousands and just go travel. Does anyone have any experience similar to this? If so was it worthwhile? And of course one of the most important questions... Is weed readily available everywhere? Share anything you find worth saying really, thanks
A great trip to make, so I support your decision to make it fully. The experiences you gather will shape you for the rest of your life, and that much I can guarantee you as I've traveled Europe and the US from every corner. Some things to consider: "Europe" is not the same everywhere. There is a big difference between being in a middle class environment in say, Munich, VS being in some shoddy area of Bratislava. Maybe you already know this, but considering you're only 18 and haven't been yet, I'd suggest you exercise caution and travel on the safe side at first. I'd say stick to the West and only nicer parts of major cities in the East. Don't worry, there is still a TON of great places you can visit safely. Weed is certainly not available everywhere, unless you are willing to go on the hunt everywhere and try to locate a dealer. Not something I would advise to someone looking to travel through foreign nations at age 18......or any age for that matter. Having said that, Amsterdam, as I'm sure you know, is a good place to get some legally. My personal favorite, and far less known about, is an area right in Copenhagen, Denmark known as Christiania. Technically it's not legal there either, but it is still sold openly in shoppes like almost a souvenir. Very cool place and safe way to purchase. Let me know if you need more detailed advice and good luck should you make the trip.
I'm in the same situation as OP but I'm a sophomore in college. I spent last summer at home, worked, and took online classes which led to a me becoming a huge burn out this semester because I haven't had more than a week off of school since last December and haven't had more than a month off of school since 2013. Since last summer I've been working 35 hours a week as a cook at a barbecue joint while going to school and I'm so fucking stressed all the time and I neglect school and smoke in between class and work instead of doing hw. I've been working so much so that I can spend my entire two month summer vagabonding; travelling with no agenda besides what you want in each moment. I'm not exactly sure where I want to go; however, somewhere with a good exchange rate from $USD would be ideal. Anyone have any tips about going where they've traveled?
oh and if you want to go to scotland try stay away from certain places, if you havent heard of it and it is in the middle of scotland stay away, north is very nice but cold and glasgow is nice but certain areas are shitholes (eg easterhouse)
You can't go wrong with the more advanced countries like Germany, the Scandinavian nations, Holland, etc. If you follow common sense and don't randomly go dark alleys and shady bars, you'll be fine wherever you go. Anyone who's a first time traveler through Europe, I'd advise staying away from the rougher, more eastern countries. Obviously you can travel those safely as well, if you know what you're doing, but for first timers, I'd recommend staying in the West. A friend just got his wallet stolen traveling through Barcelona, so goes to show caution is advised everywhere. The Dollar will serve you well wherever you go, a bit more in poorer nations, a bit less in rich ones. Since it's Europe, you won't be ultra rich with it anywhere, but you won't be ultra poor either. Prices are generally comparable to what they are in the US, give or take a buck or two. If you are traveling in summer I'd recommend some more southern regions. Croatia has an amazing coast line and islands, and is quite safe. Same goes for Sardinia, Corsica, and Capri. I was in Dubrovnik last year again and it always delivers.
Thank you all for the advice. My plan is to mainly stick in western regions as you all suggested. I am however planning to spend considerable time in Greece and a little in Slovenia and Austria. Also Christiana sounds badass
spain is a good place, legal weed on private property. benidorm or tenerife are good places to go there for holidays
I appreciate the advice man, I traveled in Budapest, Prague, Bratislava, and Vienna summer 2014 so I know what to expect and to be wary.
I love Europe! It's amazing how many different cultures you'll see, but at the same time they are all kind of alike. My favorite place is definitely Innsbruck, Austria! I could see money being tough though. Luckily I've been fortunate enough to travel through the support of snowboarding. Oh and make sure you get to Oslo, Norway! So damn cool