Any Athens stoner knows how Herbal Wellness Center, or Debbie’s, as it is more commonly known, can oftentimes feel like sitting and waiting in a doctor’s office. They also know the sweet payoff of waking up a little earlier that morning to catch the 10% off early-bird deal from Mavuno of Athens.
Despite its coffin-like appearance, Debbie’s employees are incredibly kind and helpful. They know how to hook you up with exactly what you might be in the market for. Mavuno offers daily discounts and customer appreciation days, with a whopping 30% off storewide. Bloom, although not open until later this year, is within walking distance of campus and will be the first Athens dispensary to sell prerolls.
The idea of going to a dispensary or cannabis store is new for a lot of people, with the legalization of recreational marijuana for those 21+ only becoming legal within the past year. Buying bud or street weed has its pros, but when it comes to dispensary weed, it’s regulated, and you can pick out whatever kind you want.
Herb claims dispensary cannabis is going to be better for medicinal consumers due to the wide selection and employees who know the best strains to ease their affliction. This also means the employees know strains with high potencies for a low price.
If it’s your first time at a dispensary, Debbie’s is going to be the best bet. The options available for purchase are not displayed in a glass case like a grocery store; they are only available through the online catalog and the physical catalog in the waiting area. Debbie’s has staff who will give great recommendations for your first time and overall has the best prices.
You shouldn’t be looking for anything too crazy to smoke your new weed out of either. I personally recommend getting a glass piece for no more than $30 or learn to roll a joint. Use isopropyl alcohol, salt and a straw cleaner brush to keep your piece from getting gross.
Smoke shops are also (ridiculously) abundant in Athens. Within walking distance of nearly any Court Street location, users can find the right supplies at a plethora of different stores. The sheer number of them, in addition to the variety of grinders and glass pieces to choose from, can deter anyone from shopping locally.
Mike’s at 42 S Court St. will typically get you a good deal. If you splurge anywhere on Court, Smoke Zone at 80 N Court St. has nice grinders with keef catchers from $20-$40.
Cheap batteries for carts and vaporizers are also good options, but always balance out your cart and flower usage. Becoming reliant on carts can kill tolerance and typically isn’t going to get you the nice high you want from flower or edibles. THC University warns about the unwanted additives in carts, but their convenience is a nice perk (and addictive).
Buddy’s Lounge is another local favorite, less of a smoke shop and more of a bar. Buddy’s has CBD, THC and HHC products. Although there are fewer options than a typical dispensary, the prices range from $20-30 for most items. Plus, it’s a nice place to hang out and have a THC drink.
Athens boasts a healthy stoner population that continues to grow. Knowing the right places to go and finding the right places to be loyal to is half the battle. Always show local places love and enjoy whatever you smoke, however, responsibly.
BudPost is a cannabis opinion column that does not reflect the views of The Post.
