Wandering Publicist

Riding an elephant in Thailand is on the bucket list of many.   As many of you know, these gentle animals are often abused and treated as cash cows. You can see them being whipped for not obeying orders and heavily chained in their stalls. For many, the thrill of this magical experience outweighs the horrible conditions.  I would like to let you know about a rescue center where you can experience this life-changing moment, knowing the elephants are being well treated.

When I visited Thailand in June of 2015 with EF College Break, we rode elephants through the Ran Tong Save & Rescue Elephant Center, which works to save elephants from abusive situations. They do not separate mothers from their babies, they use the lightest chains possible (just put on one foot) to keep them safe, and do not force them to do anything. While we were there, one elephant did not want to go up the hill, so the guide asked the girls if they would be okay going a different route. Many other places would have made sure the elephant complied by whatever means necessary.

Arriving early, we avoided the mid-day blazing sun. I felt like I had entered my own private jungle sanctuary. Rounding the bend, my heart stopped, as I saw a group of three elephants moving in the grass, strolling slowly but with a powerful grace I have never seen before. I had to pinch myself!

We changed into our riding uniform, which was a very flattering striped shirt and baggy blue pants, topped with a straw sun hat. I would have been happy spending the rest of the summer in that outfit tending to the elephants.

The elephant my friend Kristine and I rode was named Suria. She was so beautiful. Looking into her eyes, I felt an instant connection. I felt as if I was looking into her soul. It moved me to tears.

After gushing over her, it was time to begin the ride. Getting on an elephant is no easy feat ladies and gentleman. After a few tries, we were on our way.

The path took us up a hill, surrounded by greenery. I remember taking in the scenery, and how the hazy morning sun cast beautiful shadows, and took a mental photograph, one I can conjure up at any time. I can feel the heat on my skin, the soft leathery skin of Suria against my feet, and the slow movement of her body, as she guided us through the forest.

 

After the ride, which lasted about 30 minutes, each elephant gets to cool down in the pond. We were each given a bowl to scoop the water and pour over her.

In middle, she started to sit down so more of her body could be covered and I almost fell off into the poop-infested waters! They had a worker collecting it all with a basket. One of the funniest things I have seen. Thank god, I did managed to stay on her back. That grand moment was captured on camera.

 

This was easily a day I will never forget. We all left as changed people. I feel more connected to the creatures on Earth and seek to savor the beauty in fleeting moments.

I highly recommend using the Ran-Tong Save & Rescue Center if you plan on riding an elephant in Thailand. You will have an incredible time and can be confident in knowing your elephant is treated well.

Let me know if you have any questions!

XO,

Sarah