This past summer, I went on a vacation to Thailand and got to spend a day at Baanchang Elephant Park in Chiang Mai. Before I went on the trip, I was very torn about going to an elephant park because of the possible unethical treatment and living conditions.

I was very conflicted on the drive to the park, but the second I got there, my perspective was changed. It turned into the most amazing day of my life! I fell in love with an elephant that is 12-years-old and was saved from a circus. We were able to feed, interact, and bathe them throughout the day. My favorite part was getting to play with three of the elephants in the water. I could not stop smiling as I told each one I loved them so much.

Throughout the day, we learned many things about each elephant and how amazing the program is. The elephants at Baanchang Elephant park are full of joy and are surrounded by happiness and love every day after being saved.

My friend and I questioned them about how much land they had for the elephants and if they wanted to rescue more. They taught us that each of the elephants is introduced to their “person” when arriving at the park for the first time. The caretaker teaches the elephants trust again. One interesting fact we learned was an elephant never forgets, so make sure you are kind to them! It shocks me that anyone could harm such wonderful animals.

When you go to any animal park, it’s hard to know if they are treating the animals ethically. When many people go to elephant “parks” when in Thailand, they ride the elephants with multiple people on them at once, sitting in a basket on an elephant, and will see elephant living conditions that aren’t proper for a healthy living environment. It’s important to understand that it might look fun or seem cool, yet you are breaking and hurting a peaceful creature.

Be aware that there are many places in Thailand and all over the world that are treating elephants unethically. Find the right places such as Baanchang Elephant Park in Chiang Mai!