All That's Growing in Tel Aviv & Jerusalem: A Look at Cannabis Culture in Israel's Major Cities
- Tony Lavrov
- Oct 25, 2023
- 5 min read
The perennial debate rages on - is it more enjoyable to partake in cannabis in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem? The Jerusalem cannabis content creator, OG Shmoof (@OGShmoof), and myself: Tel Aviv's own Tony Lavrov (@tonylavrov), have recently engaged in a captivating discussion about the cannabis lifestyle in the holiest city in Israel versus the city of indulgence. We've decided to share an excerpt from our research, and we invite you to share your thoughts.
The Capital City - Jerusalem
Some of the topics I'm about to discuss may ring a bell or perhaps you've experienced them yourself if you're an Israeli Stoner. We're all cannabis enthusiasts, and most of us remember the days when a gram would cost NIS 120.
Until just a few years ago, there was no cannabis market to speak of. When we bought weed, it was through a friend who knew someone who had heard that their father's cat occasionally urinated on a neighbor's weed plant in the Nakhalot neighborhood and that the person living there knows someone who sold cannabis. Yes, the situation was far from ideal.
But I wanted to present these issues from a unique perspective - that of a former consumer who became a medical cannabis patient in Jerusalem, a city so sacred that one can't help but feel a sense of sin within its confines.
For those who aren't familiar with Jerusalem's streets, envision a city built among craggy, broken stones, as if it were birthed from the very mountains themselves. Jerusalem is not only Israel's capital, but it's also a holy place for many religions. As a result, the cityscape is adorned with churches, mosques, synagogues, and, alongside them, the everyday hustle and bustle - residents waiting for buses, street vendors, and an abundance of soldiers, pickpockets, and policemen.
Unfortunately, the city's sanctity necessitates stringent security measures, and security and cannabis aren't exactly the best of friends. However, you might be surprised to learn that there's nothing to fear. The police are primarily concerned with ensuring that those who come to make trouble actually behave themselves. Of course, there will always be a few exceptions, but that's a topic for another time.
From a young age, I've roamed the streets of Jerusalem, always knowing that I would eventually call this city my home. Not too long ago, I realized that dream, and now, as a medical cannabis patient in this incredible city, I can revel in all the spirituality this world has to offer without worrying about breaking the law. What more could one ask for? If you're open to it, the atmosphere in Jerusalem can truly capture your heart. The number of patients I encounter here every day is a testament to that. I often hear the same sentiment repeated, though it's not widely publicized in the capital city.
There are countless picturesque spots here in Jerusalem where you can enjoy some cannabis or vapor. Consider visiting a hilly, slightly wooded area, like the sculpture park at the art museum, for example. Find a good bench and take in the splendor of this city. If it's too serene for your taste, head to the Mahane Yehuda market. It's a blast to indulge there, and there's always something delectable to satisfy your cravings. However, some of you might feel a bit hesitant to expose your sessions to passersby, especially with the potent strains we have - people can smell our gatherings throughout the market!
Here's a personal recommendation: if you find yourself in Jerusalem, explore the city. There's so much to see here. Don't confine yourself solely to the market or Ben Yehuda Street. Don't get me wrong; I cherish and frequent these places. However, we Jerusalemites sometimes appreciate quiet moments in the city's charming nooks and crannies.
So, I urge you to take a leisurely stroll, and I'm confident that you'll discover a cool spot to pause and enjoy your cannabis. Take another walk, and you'll probably stumble upon another pleasant location to savor your smoke. What's the harm?
During your wanderings, you'll find plenty of delightful dining establishments. We're all familiar with our best friend, the munchies! I don't know about you, but certain strains make me so ravenous that I'll hop in a taxi and head straight to Burger Rum on Gaza Street to indulge in a crispy chicken sandwich. Listen carefully: what I'm about to tell you is even holier than the city's ancient walls - Jerusalem's cuisine is the most delectable in the world. Yes, there's undoubtedly an impressive menu in Tel Aviv, but there's something about Jerusalem's ambiance that elevates your taste buds to heavenly heights.
People often attempt to compare Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, but it's not a fair comparison. Jerusalem possesses its own unique beauty and soul, and those who have experienced it know this well. Of course, some individuals might not feel the same connection, and that's perfectly fine. In my opinion, Jerusalem is an incredible place with immense potential for the cannabis market. All that's missing is a bit of legalization, so let's see what the future holds in the White City.
The White City: Tel Aviv - Jaffa
Let's dive into what must be said right from the start - there's no such thing as visiting Tel Aviv without being enveloped by the scent of cannabis. Whether you're strolling down Rothschild Boulevard with others who haven't made the life-altering decision to relocate here, working in Ramat Hahayal while telling people your office is actually in Tel Aviv, or lounging on the beachfront terrace on a Friday afternoon with a group of tourists eager to explore, the aroma of cannabis is ubiquitous on every avenue and street in the city. That's what the headlines mean for cannabis consumers, and here's precisely why:
The Plugs
There's no need for debate, is there? The best connections have always resided in Tel Aviv. Yes, the growers might not live here, but where do you think they want to market their products? In a place where people earn and spend more than seems rational, or in a location that's more laid-back and average? Whether it's to cater to the high-tech crowd, artists, the bourgeois, or bohemians, Tel Aviv has consistently boasted the most valuable contact list in any field.
The Gear
And if you need to acquire any additional equipment - be it papers, devices, or pipes - you won't find a shortage in Tel Aviv. The city is teeming with shops, and I can guarantee that you'll find every kind of pipe, rolling paper in every flavor, and even accessories, screens, and anything else you might dream of. There's a high demand in the city for advanced smoking tools, and they appear to materialize even faster than impromptu electric scooters.
In accordance with demand, supply follows suit. If you visit a friend in Tel Aviv who enjoys smoking, you'll likely find a glass bong, perhaps even a small collection of vaporizers or additional equipment for consuming extracts and essential oils. Tel Aviv is one of the few cities where you can purchase vaping pens, edibles, and a range of consumable solutions that are difficult to come by elsewhere.
The Buzz
Being a cannabis consumer in Tel Aviv feels like being in the right place at the right time. The city consistently exudes the scent of weed, always ready to provide a tranquil moment or a reason to celebrate. Most importantly, there's always something scrumptious to eat - always. And when I say 'scrumptious,' I mean it.
If you're in the mood for music, there's likely a concert nearby. If a date is on your mind, there are plenty of single men and women willing to join you. Most crucially, there's always something to do.
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