Visit an Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand

Hundreds of tourists go to Asia and hope to snap awesome selfies with animals, not realizing the harm they are doing. Heavy animal abuse exists in countries such as Thailand, China and Vietnam and by participating in tourist activities like elephant rides, you could be furthering the damage. Many animals in these countries face cruelty on the streets as well as zoos, safari parks and other tourist attractions.

Seen people riding elephants on Instagram? What about that photo of your friend stroking a tiger? These experiences are not the ones you want to have. The animals used for this kind of tourist attraction are often drugged up, have suffered beatings and other forms of abuse, resulting in their docile appearances.

If you really want to help, then think about doing your research before setting off on your adventures. Find a conservation group or animal sanctuary to visit, check to see if they are legit and whether they actually do what they say they do.

Find an Elephant Sanctuary

For example, why not book a visit to Elephants World near Kanchanaburi City in Thailand? Their slogan is ‘We work for the elephants, instead of them working for us’ and they have several programs that you can participate in – from 1 day experiences to 4 weeks!

Opt for a 1 day program and see yourself cleaning fruit and vegetables, cooking rice and planting food for these sick, old or previously abused elephants. Then build a real connection with one of these majestic animals by taking them for a bath, scrubbing them clean then feeding them. The schedules vary depending on what the elephants need, but the program is sure to be fun, eye-opening and ethical.

For more information on visiting Thailand, please contact Bob@lloydstravel.com. Bob has recently spent time in Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Phuket and Krabi. He was also lucky enough to pay a visit to this beautiful elephant sanctuary and can share insight into what you can expect.

 

Written by Hannah Poaros