I know that in Japan, China & Korea along with SEA including the Middle East, it’s definitely criminalized and you’ll get arrested for bringing in weed (they’re indifferent whether its for medicinal or recreational use) since they do not allow it on their turf. In some countries, that guarantees a death sentence as they have zero tolerance on allowing those substances. It’s not like let’s say Canada or Germany where weed is tolerated.
Travelers who are weed users aren’t stupid to travel internationally with cannabis as they’re aware the rules are different across borders. Then, if they crave for weed (but can’t consume that as it’s a crime in those countries) what’s the alternative? Over the counter pills, maybe? Other valid substitutes that may give off similar vibes. I’ve heard a case where an American couple had their weed confiscated in Australia, where it’s illegal.
I smoked every day from when I was around 16 until I was 43, usually multiple times a day, most mornings. I smoked all the way thru law school. I smoked weed thru my career. I noticed my blood pressure was going up even though I eat a healthy diet and exercise and figured it has to be smoking so I stopped one day 2 years ago and never touched it again. I didn’t experience weed withdrawal or feel any dependency, I felt like stopping and I just did. I suspect the people who have these experiences have deeper underlying issues that they would experience dependency and withdrawal from any of their maladaptive habits be it extreme sports, shopping or even jerkin it.