If you find yourself traveling to Cuba for the beautiful scenery and vintage atmosphere, you might feel the need to have some herbal refreshment.

But in this country, one way or another, you will face some ridiculous prices.

Since Obama opened the doors to friendship with the closed off country, more tourists than ever have set their sights on Cuba. If you love vintage cars, fine cigars, or great coffee this is the place to be. But the last thing you want to look for in Cuba is weed.

For decades, the regime in Cuba cracked down on anything considered a “detriment to society”. This included gambling, prostitution, free speech, and drugs. Of course, the harsh penalties meant that people really wanted these things, and kept trying to get them. The result was a culture that delved deep under the radar.

Before the 1930’s, Cuba claimed to be one of the hottest tourist destinations in the world. But for decades, the regime has prevented the influx of tourists. Until 1997, interacting with locals was a crime, and even today, most tourists stay confined to certain areas. In fact, tourism itself remains technically illegal.

The US State department does allow travel there for a number of other reasons. You can go for family travel, government business, journalism, professional research, education, supporting Cuban people, humanitarian aid, and a few other reasons.

Remember these important rules if you go there.

1. Flashing cash- the average monthly income is $20. Street crime happens. Enough said.
2. Don’t take pictures of airport personnel, police, or soldiers. Illegal.
3. Blowing your nose in public is considered extremely rude.
4. Don’t drink the water. Think intestinal problems, like Mexico.
5. Don’t use American currency- the exchange gets hit with a special 10% penalty. Take Canadian or European instead.
6. Forget cards- Many American bank cards won’t be accepted.
7. Unlicensed taxis can rob you. Worse, it is illegal to use them, and might be a setup.

The recreational or medicinal use of weed in Cuba is illegal. Even small amounts can result in imprisonment for six months to two years.

Cuba has strict anti-drug laws in place. In 1999, the Cuban Parliament passed a law introducing the death penalty for possessing, producing, and trafficking drugs. In extreme cases, the death penalty may be enforced, although this hasn’t been applied since 2003.

Does Cuba’s zero-tolerance rule mean Cuban weed is nonexistent?

Not quite.

It is possible to get weed in Cuba. But just because it’s possible doesn’t mean it’s worth spending your nights in the Cuban prison system!

If you really need weed, try the barter system.

You can bring an extra bag for “humanitarian aid” purposes when traveling to the country. Simple items like shampoo, underwear, toys, school supplies, and dollar store items could get you further than cash. Slip some to the right locals, and you can find whatever you want.

We highly encourage avoiding illegal substances in areas where you could face serious legal troubles.