What to Expect on Your First Visit to a Cannabis Lounge
Countless individuals are learning about the benefits of cannabis and want to try it for themselves. They may find a new dispensary or lounge has opened in their area and plan a visit. The experience varies by lounge, as the products, regulations, and cultural nuances are unique. However, certain things will remain the same regardless of which lounge a person visits.
Recreational Versus Medical Cannabis
Before hanging out at a cannabis lounge, a person must know why they plan to use marijuana. Some people turn to this substance to help them relax and unwind. They use cannabis and socialize with others. Medical cannabis, in contrast, is used to treat a health condition. Before this visit, men and women must know which strains and formulations best suit their needs. Budtenders can also help guide individuals to products that will help them achieve their stated objectives. If seeking cannabis for a medical condition, learn whether a medical marijuana card or letter from a doctor is required.
Legal Requirements
Regardless of where a person goes, they will likely need a government-issued ID to show they are of legal age to consume marijuana. Parents may need to be with a child if they are visiting the lounge or dispensary for medical marijuana, and the letter or card might need to be shown. The right paperwork simplifies the process and ensures the lounge doesn’t get into trouble with the law.
Product Options
Dispensaries offer a range of products. The majority associate cannabis with a flower that can be smoked. However, dispensaries and lounges may offer edibles, topicals, concentrates, and tinctures. Learn about the different offerings and the effects of each before the visit. Edibles act slowly, but the effects last longer, while smoking cannabis leads to rapid effects with short durations. Staff members can help customers find products that fit their lifestyles and preferences.
Dosage
Experts recommend people start with a low dosage when trying a new cannabis strain. Each person reacts differently, and the low dose will allow them to determine how they will respond to the strain. Overconsumption often leads to discomfort, so start low with a low dose to reduce the risk of a bad experience. Doing so is very important when trying a concentrate or edible, as the effects tend to be highly potent. Staff members can recommend an appropriate dose to start with.
Etiquette
Cannabis lounges are permitted in many areas and serve as social venues. People can gather and try different products while socializing. Keep noise level down to respect others using the lounge and never share without consent. Respect the personal space of other users, and always clean up before leaving. Please abide by the lounge’s rules to ensure everyone has fun and enjoys their time there.
Local Laws
If a lounge doesn’t abide by local laws, it may be shut down. Know the laws before visiting to prevent mistakes that could cause problems for the lounge. For example, keep products out of reach when driving, and never get behind the wheel after using marijuana. Know the laws when traveling to avoid issues.
A person might feel intimidated when walking into a cannabis lounge for the first time. Don’t be. Everyone is there for the same reason. Remember the tips outlined above, and the experience should be positive. If something doesn’t feel right, try a different lounge. Everyone differs in terms of what makes them comfortable, so try a few lounges to find one that feels like home.
