Apologies for interrupting the regular “Travel Deeper Australia” series, but I simply had to share my amazing experience in Thailand as part of the 10-day #ThaiFitChallenge. This exciting event was organized by Amazing Thailand, GoPro, and Adidas, and saw me join forces with three other YouTubers for a thrilling adventure that included kayaking, kickboxing, and volunteering at an elephant sanctuary. In this four-part video series, I’ll be documenting our exciting journey, starting with our visit to the Thailand Elephant Experience. Our base was the stunning Anantara Resort in Chiang Mai, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Rather than taking the typical touristy elephant ride, we were given the opportunity to truly understand how to care for these majestic creatures in Thailand.
My companions and I had the opportunity to visit Patara Elephant Farm, a haven for elephants where they receive proper care and treatment. Upon arrival, we were each paired with a personal elephant and caregiver to spend the day with. My partner, Boon Gin, was a male elephant rescued from a circus who enjoyed unwinding with gentle massages and leisurely walks through the woods. Throughout our bonding time, I gained insights on identifying signs of an unhealthy elephant and the crucial methods of Rescue, Rehabilitation, Breeding, and Regeneration that are employed to promote their wellbeing. As Boon Gin headed off to rest in the hills after a thrilling day, we were treated to playtime with the cute baby elephant, also known as the “thigh elephant” online. The little one greeted us with warm embraces and playful antics, leaving us with a heartwarming end to our day.
If you’re planning to visit elephant sanctuaries in Thailand, it’s important to do your research beforehand, especially when it comes to animal sanctuaries. Unfortunately, not all establishments treat these amazing animals with the respect they deserve. The elephant tourism industry in Thailand is enormous, so make sure to avoid places that use hooks or saddles that allow multiple people to ride them. These practices can cause stress and harm to the elephants, so it’s important to take their safety and wellbeing into consideration.
As I got to know Boon Gin better, I came to understand that every elephant has its own unique character. Despite their imposing size and physical prowess, these magnificent creatures possess remarkable intelligence and emotions akin to our own. Observing Boon Gin closely, I could discern the awe in his eyes as he encountered novel experiences, or the way his muscles would loosen up when enjoying a soothing back massage. During hotter days, I noticed him exhibiting signs of discomfort, seeking solace beneath the canopy of nearby trees.
We were delighted to spend some time with a charming little elephant calf that simply stole our hearts. Although she was still so young, her liveliness and mischievous nature made her stand out from the rest, earning her the endearing nickname “thigh elephant.” We couldn’t help but smile as she showered us with affectionate snuggles and playful attempts at wrestling, revealing her inquisitive and joyous personality. Witnessing her playful antics was truly heartening and a poignant reminder of their innocence and vulnerability.
Witnessing the overwhelming display of emotions was a truly humbling and touching experience. It reminded me of the importance of conservation measures for these magnificent creatures. Every life, be it of an elephant or any other living being, should be respected and protected from exploitation and harm.
It is crucial to remember that animal preservation entails more than just saving animals. It involves safeguarding their emotions, experiences, and entitlement to a life free from discomfort or suffering.
Having spent a wonderful day at Patara Elephant Farm, I have developed a strong admiration for these magnificent animals and a deep-seated urge to advocate for their welfare. The #ThaiFitChallenge was not just about taking stunning photos but was also an opportunity to learn more about elephants and their significance in our world. It is our collective responsibility to safeguard and conserve these exceptional creatures for future generations. What is your stance on elephant conservation? Do you have any memorable encounters with animals that you would like to share? We welcome your feedback and invite you to participate in the discussion! Your opinions matter, as every voice plays a vital role in protecting animal rights. Let’s continue the conversation, and if you’re interested in forging a profound emotional connection with a baby elephant in Thailand, please feel free to share your thoughts below.
