Abstract
Psychedelics are a class of substances that induce profound alterations in perception, cognition, and consciousness. They include substances such as psilocybin (found in certain mushrooms), LSD, and DMT. Drug tourism, on the other hand, refers to the practice of traveling to destinations specifically to engage in the consumption or exploration of drugs, both legal and illegal. It encompasses a range of experiences, from seeking out prescription medications at lower costs to participating in psychedelic retreats or engaging in recreational drug use. Drug tourism, encompassing legal and illegal drugs, is a significant part of the tourism industry, generating substantial revenue and attracting tourists to various destinations. This chapter delves into the fascinating and complex world of drugs and psychedelics in tourism, examining the resurgence of interest in psychedelic substances, the implications for tourist destinations, the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, and the associated health risks and ethical considerations.
TopIntroduction
The term “psychedelic” originates from the Greek words “psyche” (referring to the mind or soul) and “delos” (meaning to show), and it was first coined by psychiatrist Humphry Osmond in 1956. Psychedelic substances have a long history of human use, dating back hundreds, if not thousands, of years, for various purposes including recreation, spirituality, and healing. These substances have the remarkable ability to induce profound shifts in consciousness and cognition, leading to transient changes in emotions, perceptual processing, self-perception, and feelings of connectedness. Although scientific interest in psychedelics waxed and waned throughout the 20th century, experiencing a surge of research during the 1950s and 60s, regulatory restrictions limited further investigation until the early 1990s, when psychedelic science began to regain momentum (Aday et al., 2020; Johnson & Griffiths, 2017).
The incorporation of drugs and psychedelics in the realm of tourism has given rise to a fascinating and complex phenomenon known as psychedelic tourism. This chapter delves into the multifaceted dynamics, implications, and trends surrounding the intersection of drugs and psychedelics with the tourism industry.
The resurgence of psychedelic substances has played a significant role in driving the exploration of psychedelic tourism. Recent scientific research has shed light on the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics in treating mental health conditions, challenging traditional perspectives, and igniting renewed interest in these substances. Studies by Carhart-Harris et al. (2016, 2018) and Griffiths et al. (2016) have demonstrated their efficacy in addressing conditions such as treatment-resistant depression or anxiety. These findings have sparked a shift in public perception and a reevaluation of the role of psychedelics in promoting healing, personal growth, and spiritual exploration.
Understanding drug tourism, encompassing both legal and illegal drugs in tourist destinations is crucial for comprehending the motivations, challenges, and consequences associated with this phenomenon. It involves examining the factors driving tourists to seek out drug-related experiences, the complexities faced by destinations dealing with drug legalization, or the implications of the illicit drug trade. This exploration provides insights into the diverse motivations of tourists, the economic and social impacts on destinations, and the legal and ethical considerations surrounding drug use in tourism.
The impact of psychedelic tourism on indigenous communities and their cultural practices is another significant aspect to be explored. Indigenous communities have a long-standing relationship with psychedelic substances, often within the context of traditional and religious practices. The incorporation of psychedelic tourism raises questions about cultural appropriation, the preservation of indigenous knowledge, and the potential effects on indigenous communities as they navigate their involvement in the tourism industry.
This chapter explores the resurgence of psychedelic substances, the understanding of drug tourism, the impact on indigenous communities, the therapeutic potential and shifting public perception, responsible development, health risks, and safety considerations, ethical implications, the role of education and decision-making, as well as current trends and future directions in psychedelic tourism research.
The Resurgence of Psychedelic Substances and the Emergence of Psychedelic Tourism
In recent years, there has been a notable resurgence of interest in psychedelic substances, accompanied by the emergence of a new trend known as psychedelic tourism. This phenomenon has captured the attention of researchers, policymakers, and the public alike, as it represents a significant cultural shift and raises intriguing questions about the intersection of drugs and tourism.
Key Terms in this Chapter
Mental Health: Mental health refers to a person's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It encompasses factors such as one's thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and the ability to cope with life's challenges. Good mental health is characterized by a state of well-being, effective functioning, and the ability to engage in productive activities and maintain healthy relationships.
Legalization: Legalization refers to the process by which a substance, activity, or practice that was previously illegal or restricted becomes lawful and regulated by the governing authorities. In the context of psychedelic substances, legalization may involve the removal of legal barriers and the establishment of regulations and frameworks for their controlled and responsible use.
Psychedelic Tourism: Psychedelic tourism refers to the practice of traveling to specific destinations or participating in organized retreats or experiences with the purpose of engaging in psychedelic substances and related activities. It involves seeking out opportunities to explore the potential therapeutic, spiritual, or recreational aspects of psychedelics in a supportive and controlled setting.
Therapeutic Effect: The therapeutic effect refers to the beneficial outcomes or positive changes that result from a particular treatment, intervention, or substance. In the context of psychedelics, therapeutic effects may include improvements in mental health symptoms, increased self-awareness, enhanced emotional processing, and transformative or healing experiences.
Psychedelic Substance: A psychedelic substance refers to a type of psychoactive drug that induces altered states of consciousness, often characterized by profound changes in perception, thoughts, and emotions. Examples of psychedelic substances include LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), psilocybin (found in certain species of mushrooms), and DMT (dimethyltryptamine).
Drug Tourism: Drug tourism refers to the phenomenon where individuals travel to a particular destination with the intention of using drugs that are either legal or more easily accessible in that location. It involves the combination of recreational drug use with travel and tourism activities.
Psychedelic Retreat: A psychedelic retreat is a structured program or organized event that provides individuals with a guided and supportive environment to engage in psychedelic experiences. These retreats typically involve the use of psychedelics in combination with therapeutic or spiritual practices, such as meditation, group therapy, or shamanic ceremonies. The aim is to facilitate personal growth, self-exploration, and healing under the guidance of experienced facilitators or practitioners.
Indigenous Cultures: Indigenous cultures refer to the ethnic or native communities that have inhabited a specific geographic region for generations. These cultures often have a distinct set of customs, traditions, languages, and beliefs that are passed down through generations. Indigenous cultures are deeply connected to their lands, have unique knowledge systems, and may hold spiritual or healing practices that incorporate natural substances, including psychedelics.