Thailand Travel - Epic Bucket List Adventures

Bangkok Chinatown: An Exciting Cacophonic Spectacle

During our trip to Thailand, one of the highlights was our visit to Bangkok Chinatown, a bustling district that offered a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. As soon as we stepped into the area, we were greeted by a whirlwind of colors, sounds, and aromas that made it clear we were in for an unforgettable experience.

A Stroll Through Bangkok Chinatown History

Bangkok’s Chinatown is one of the oldest parts of the city, with a history that dates back to the late 1700s. As we walked through the narrow streets, we felt as though we had stepped back in time. The area is a maze of old shophouses, traditional Chinese temples, and markets that have been around for generations. The architecture alone is worth the visit, with its intricate facades and vibrant colors that tell stories of the past.

Bangkok Chinatown bustling with activity.

Culinary Adventures in Bangkok Chinatown

One of the main reasons we were excited to visit Chinatown was the food. This district is famous for its street food, and it did not disappoint. The variety of flavors was incredible, with each dish offering a unique taste of Chinese-Thai fusion cuisine.

As we continued our food journey, we couldn’t resist trying the famous Yaowarat Road street food. This bustling street is lined with vendors selling everything from crispy pork belly to steaming bowls of noodles. We saved our street food experience for the market, but we did enjoy amazing Thai Tea in Chinatown. We were also amused by the array of insects at one of the street food stalls.

An array of scorpions and larvae at a Bangkok Chinatown street vendor.

Cultural Discoveries

Beyond the food, Chinatown is rich in culture and spirituality. We passed by several temples, including the Wat Mangkon Kamalawat, also known as the Dragon Lotus Temple. This temple is a major spiritual center for the Chinese community in Bangkok and is adorned with beautiful decorations, incense, and offerings. We also passed by Wat Pathum Khongkha pictured below.

Wat Pathum Khongkha in Bangkok, Thailand.

Exploring the local markets, we found everything from traditional Chinese medicine to intricate jade carvings. The vendors were friendly and eager to share their knowledge about the products they were selling. It was fascinating to learn about the traditional remedies and the significance of certain items in Chinese culture. We even found some interesting cough medicine at a regular convenience store in Chinatown.

Nighttime Magic in Bangkok Chinatown

As the sun set, Chinatown transformed into a vibrant nightlife hub. The streets came alive with neon signs, and the aroma of street food grew even stronger. We decided to cap off our visit with a night tour, taking in the sights and sounds of Chinatown after dark. The atmosphere was electric, with throngs of people enjoying late-night snacks and exploring the area.

Final Thoughts

A selection of bugs for sale at Bangkok's Chinatown.

Our visit to Bangkok’s Chinatown was a sensory feast and a cultural journey all in one. The district’s rich history, mouthwatering food (and some not so mouthwatering), and vibrant atmosphere made it one of the most memorable parts of our trip. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply someone looking to explore a unique part of Bangkok, Chinatown is a must-visit destination that will leave you with lasting memories.

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A Luxurious Stay at the Royal Orchid Sheraton in Bangkok

During our trip to Bangkok, we had the pleasure of staying at the Royal Orchid Sheraton, a hotel that perfectly blends luxury with the vibrant culture of Thailand. From the moment we arrived, the experience was excellent, making our time in Bangkok even more memorable. This hotel served as our base of operations that included short trips to Vietnam and Cambodia.

A Warm Welcome to Royal Orchid Sheraton

Upon entering the Royal Orchid Sheraton, we were greeted by a grand lobby that immediately set the tone for our stay. The staff was welcoming and efficient, ensuring a smooth check-in process. Our room was ready upon arrival, and we were quickly escorted to our accommodation, where the real treat began.

Riverside Views and Comfortable Accommodations

Our room at the Royal Orchid Sheraton was nothing short of spectacular. The hotel is situated right on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, and our room offered stunning views of the river and the bustling city beyond. Waking up to the sight of boats gliding along the water, with the sun rising over Bangkok, was a daily highlight.

The room itself was spacious, with modern amenities that catered to all our needs. The bed was incredibly comfortable, providing a perfect place to rest after a day of exploring the city. The bathroom was equally luxurious, with a large bathtub and high-end toiletries that added a touch of indulgence to our stay.

Bathroom in our Royal Orchid Sheraton room.

Dining and Leisure

The Royal Orchid Sheraton boasts several dining options, each offering a unique culinary experience. As Marriott Platinum members, we had access to the Concierge Suite, where we had an amazing breakfast every morning. The breakfast offered a wide selection of hot and cold items. While atypical of a western breakfast, the food was amazing.

There were also many restaurants to choose from nearby. We took Grab to several restaurants, but also walked to Chinatown a couple of times. It was not a tremendously long walk. The river taxi also docked directly behind the hotel, offering direct access to Icon Siam Mall directly across the river. There were numerous dining options at the mall.

Exploring Bangkok with Convenience

One of the best aspects of staying at the Royal Orchid Sheraton was its convenient location. The hotel offers a complimentary water taxi service that takes guests to the nearby IconSiam Mall, one of Bangkok’s premier shopping destinations. This service made it incredibly easy for us to explore the city, whether we were heading out for a day of shopping or sightseeing.

View from the water taxi we took from Royal Orchid Sheraton

The hotel’s proximity to key attractions such as the Grand Palace and Wat Arun also made it an ideal base for our Bangkok adventures. After a day of exploring, returning to the comfort and luxury of the Royal Orchid Sheraton felt like coming home. Many of the tours will also offer hotel pick up, which was also very convenient.

Final Thoughts

Our stay at the Royal Orchid Sheraton was a solid base of operations during our trip to Bangkok. The combination of luxurious accommodations, stunning river views, and excellent service made for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re visiting Bangkok for business or leisure, the Royal Orchid Sheraton offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and Thai hospitality.

If you’re planning a trip to Bangkok, we highly recommend the Royal Orchid Sheraton as your home away from home. It’s a place where luxury meets culture, providing a truly unique and memorable stay.

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Unparalleled Bingsu at Michelin-Starred Pang Cha

While we were staying at the Royal Orchid Sheraton in Bangkok, we were able to take advantage of a free water taxi to IconSiam Mall. The mall was just across the river from our hotel, so the water taxi provided us quick, convenient access. In fact, the taxi docked right at our hotel. We didn’t know what Pang Cha was at the time, but we would soon find out.

Water taxi from Sheraton to Iconsiam Mall. As seen from our hotel room.

My wife and I explored the IconSiam Mall, enjoying a couple of meals and other treats. But the most memorable treat at the mall was the Pang Cha. While walking through the maze of restaurants, we noticed a Michelin sign. We had experienced a couple of other Michelin rated restaurants during our trip to Bangkok, but were amazed to learn that the Michelin star was for dessert!

The dessert? Pang Cha. The term Pang Cha means “bread tea.” It is a popular take on a dessert known as Bingsu, which is a shaved ice dessert made popular in Korea. The Thai version includes bread soaked in Thai tea and mixed in with shaved ice, milk, sweetened condensed milk, whip cream and other toppings. The dessert has a lot going on, but it was an interesting experience. It was a bit pricey (the Michelin star certainly contributes to that). You might call it the Rolls Royce of Bingsu.

The service at Pang Cha was another highlight of our experience. When we arrived, there was a very long line. I waited in line while my wife watched for a small table to open up. By the time our dessert was ordered and ready, we had a table to sit and enjoy our dessert. It was interesting. My wife wasn’t a huge fan, but I thought it was a great take on Thai Tea. I particularly liked the popping bubbles that they used as a topping. The dessert is cold, sweet and interesting.

For the money, I would say that the Pang Cha would be a rare treat. But it was definitely worth trying. If you find yourself in Thailand, there are a couple of shops that sell the Pang Cha style Bingsu. The Michelin star-rated Pang Cha at Iconsiam Mall was amazing. Pricey? Yes. Regrets? No. You have to try it once.

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The Fascinating Floating Market: Culture, Cuisine and Canals

During our time in Thailand, one of the most unforgettable experiences was visiting a traditional floating market. Thailand’s floating markets are famous for their vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and the unique experience of shopping from boats. We decided to explore one of these iconic markets, and it turned out to be a highlight of our trip. We combined our trip to Damnoen Saduak Floating Market with a visit to the Train Market.

Queuing for boats at the floating market

A Glimpse into Thai Culture

Located just outside of Bangkok, the floating market we visited was a colorful maze of narrow canals lined with wooden houses and stalls. The market is a place where locals and tourists alike come to buy and sell goods directly from boats. As we arrived late morning, the market was already bustling with activity. The sun was casting a golden glow over the water, and the scent of fresh produce and sizzling street food filled the air.

Navigating the Floating Market

We started our adventure by hopping into a long-tail boat, which glided smoothly along the narrow canals. The boat ride itself was a serene experience, offering a different perspective of the market as we floated past vendors selling everything from tropical fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The vendors filled their boats to the brim with goods, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that reflected off the water. Shops also lined the edges of the canal.

Vendor boats are a hallmark of the floating market.

As we navigated the canals, we quickly realized that this was more than just a market; it was a community. The vendors, many of whom had been selling at the market for generations, greeted us with warm smiles and friendly waves. They expertly maneuvered their boats to get closer to ours, offering us samples of their goods and inviting us to taste the flavors of Thailand.

Shops lined either side of the floating market

Culinary Delights on the Floating Market

One of the best parts of visiting the floating market was the incredible variety of food available. From our boat, we sampled a range of delicious Thai street food. Our favorite was coconut ice cream served from a floating vendor. It was sweet and refreshing. I was surprised they could keep the ice cream at a stable temperature while out on the canal.

Coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell.

For lunch, we wanted something more substantive. While noodles are a popular treat for those floating on the canal, we opted to try one of the restaurants. There is a large open-air restaurant called Tak, where we ordered bibimbap and pork belly. The food was good and very affordable for a tourist attraction.

Floating Market Shopping and Souvenirs

In addition to the food, the floating market was a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. We found beautifully woven baskets, hand-painted pottery, and traditional Thai clothing, all sold directly from the boats. We opted to visit the larger traditional section of the market for souvenirs after lunch.

Ice Cream Vendor. Girl holding snakes in the background.

Bargaining is part of the shopping experience at the floating market, and we enjoyed the friendly negotiations with the vendors. It was all done with a smile and good humor, making the process enjoyable and interactive. While we didn’t purchase any gifts while we were on the boat, we found great shopping inside the market. After our lunch, we purchased several scarves and other smaller items as gifts for friends back home.

A Cultural Experience Like No Other

Visiting a floating market in Thailand was more than just a shopping trip; it was a journey into the heart of Thai culture. The market’s lively atmosphere, the friendly interactions with vendors, and the incredible food all combined to create a memorable experience. We left with our bags full of souvenirs and our hearts full of appreciation for this unique aspect of Thai life.

Floating market as seen from the bridge. Notice the snakes in the foreground.

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, I highly recommend visiting a floating market. It’s an experience that offers a deep connection to the local culture and a chance to see a way of life that has been preserved for generations. Whether you’re sampling street food, shopping for handcrafted goods, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, a visit to a floating market is a must-do that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Thailand.

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Thailand’s Train Market: A Unique Blend of Tradition and Thrill

During our trip to Thailand, we sought out experiences that were as unique as the country itself. One such adventure was our visit to the famous Maeklong Railway Market, commonly known as the Train Market. Nestled in the Samut Songkhram province, just a short drive from Bangkok, this market offered a fascinating blend of traditional Thai culture and heart-pounding excitement.

Train Market: A Market Like No Other

Thailand is famous for its bustling markets, from the floating markets to the night bazaars, but the Train Market stands out for one simple reason: it’s located directly on active railway tracks. Vendors set up their stalls right along the tracks, selling everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing and souvenirs. At first glance, it looks like a typical Thai market, full of vibrant colors and the rich scent of street food. But then you notice the tracks running right through the middle of it.

Ban Kalong train station near the salt fields

The Thrill of the Train’s Arrival

The highlight of visiting the Train Market is witnessing what happens when a train approaches. Only, we were able to witness it from the train perspective. We purchased tickets to the train, boarding at Ban Kalong. As we neared the station, there was a noticeable buzz in the air. Vendors calmly started retracting their awnings and pulling their goods just inches away from the tracks. The whole process was impressively swift and coordinated, a testament to how often they go through this routine.

Viewing the Train Market from the window as we arrive

As we approached, the market transformed. What was moments before a bustling market scene became a narrow pathway just wide enough for the train to pass through. We watched in awe as the train slowly rolled by, with lookers inches away in the market below. The train moved at a slow pace, but the sheer proximity of it was thrilling.

Once the train came to a stop, the vendors quickly returned their stalls to their original positions, and within minutes, the market was back to normal as if nothing had happened. It was a surreal experience to witness this transformation, blending the everyday life of a Thai market with the extraordinary spectacle of a train passing right through it.

Exploring the Train Market: A Feast for the Senses

Beyond the excitement of the train, the market itself is a treasure trove of sights, sounds, and smells. We spent the rest of our time browsing the stalls, sampling fresh fruits like durian and mango, and savoring local snacks. The seafood section was particularly impressive, with a wide array of freshly caught fish, squid, and prawns displayed on ice.

The market also offers a variety of street food options. We couldn’t resist trying some grilled skewers and sweet Thai desserts. The vendors were friendly and eager to share their culinary creations, making our visit as delicious as it was thrilling.

Tips for Visiting the Train Market

Check the Train Schedule: The trains don’t run frequently, so make sure to check the schedule in advance to time your visit around one of the train’s arrivals. Better yet, find a tour that allows you to arrive on the train as we did!
Arrive Early: The market can get crowded, especially around train times. Arriving early gives you time to explore before the crowds. Early trains are also less crowded, although they fill up with locals as you get close.
Stay Aware: While the market is generally safe, it’s important to stay alert when the train is approaching. Keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of where you’re standing.
Combine with a Floating Market: Many tours offer a visit to the Train Market combined with a trip to a nearby floating market, making for a full day of exploring Thai market culture. We did the floating market as well.

Final Thoughts: A Must-See Experience

Visiting the Train Market was one of the most memorable experiences of our trip to Thailand. It’s a perfect example of how the country blends the old with the new, tradition with excitement. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or simply curious about unique cultural experiences, the Train Market is a must-see destination that will leave you with lasting memories of your time in Thailand.

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Exploring Southeast Asia: Getting Around With The Grab App

Traveling through Southeast Asia is an adventure filled with vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities. During our recent trip to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, we relied heavily on Grab, the region’s most popular ride-sharing app, to navigate our way through these diverse countries. Here’s a rundown of our experiences using Grab in each location, highlighting its convenience, affordability, and local nuances.

Background

During our previous to trip to Vietnam, we used Uber to get around. When we discovered that Uber is no longer available in the region, I booked with a car service to pick us up at the airport in Vietnam. It was a complete fiasco. First of all, the price was outrageous for what we received. Secondly, our driver was not there to pick us up at our pickup point when we arrived. So we ended up with an unnecessary delay, a very low quality car and a very high price point. After arriving at our hotel, a colleague shared that he uses the Grab App, which I immediately downloaded. It was a good decision.

Thailand: A Seamless Grab App Experience in Bangkok and Beyond

Our journey began in Bangkok, Thailand’s bustling capital, where traffic can be overwhelming, and navigating the city can be a challenge. We had side trips to Vietnam and Cambodia during our trip, but Bangkok was our base of operations during the trip. While we didn’t download Grab until we got to Vietnam our second day, it quickly became our go-to mode of transportation. The app was easy to use, and we appreciated the upfront pricing, which helped us avoid the haggling that can sometimes come with traditional taxis.

Pros:

Availability: Whether we were heading to a temple, a night market, or the airport, a Grab ride was always just minutes away. The drivers were friendly and often shared tips about the best local spots.
Pricing: We found Grab rides to be reasonably priced, especially when splitting the fare among a group. Compared to tuk-tuks or traditional taxis, Grab offered a more predictable and often cheaper option.
Variety of Options: In Bangkok, we had the option to choose from GrabCar, GrabBike, or even GrabTaxi, depending on our needs. GrabBike was particularly useful for zipping through the city’s notorious traffic.

Challenges:

Language Barrier: While most drivers were familiar with basic English, we occasionally encountered a language barrier.

Vietnam: A Reliable Grab App Companion in Ho Chi Minh City

Our first side trip from Bangkok was Vietnam. We downloaded the app after a bad experience with the shuttle service pre-arranged to take us from the airport. We used Grab extensively in Ho Chi Minh City. It was very inexpensive to get from our hotel to nearby restaurants or the market. All of our trips combined were less expensive than the one bad experience with the airport car service.

Church in Ho Chi Minh City near Banh Xeo 46A.

Pros:

Wide Availability: Grab rides were easy to find. The app’s popularity in Vietnam meant that we rarely had to wait more than a few minutes for a ride.
GrabBike: Similar to Thailand, GrabBike was a fantastic option. While we availed ourselves of this option in Bangkok, we did not in Vietnam.
Food Delivery: We did not use the food delivery option, either. But the app was very easy to use. Ordering food appeared to be very intuitive.

Challenges:

Traffic: While Grab offered a reliable way to get around, Vietnam’s traffic can be intense, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. This sometimes meant longer ride times.
Driver Communication: As in other countries, communication with drivers was sometimes a challenge.
Quality of Cars: The standard for cars in Vietnam was very low. They didn’t appear to be unsafe, but they were not up to typical ride-share standards. This may be part of the reason Uber pulled out of the region. I recall our Uber rides from our previous trip to Vietnam were in similar vehicles.

Cambodia: Grab App Convenience in Siem Reap

Tuk Tuk in Siem Reap (taken from my own tuk tuk).

Our final side trip took us to Cambodia. Our experience was limited to Siem Reap and the airport. Cambodia’s ride-sharing scene is less developed than Thailand’s, but Grab still provided a convenient way to get around. We took plenty of tuk-tuk rides in Siem Reap.

Pros:

Ease of Use: In Siem Reap, we used Grab to explore the city’s outskirts and make our way to local restaurants. It was a reliable alternative to haggling with tuk-tuk drivers, especially in more touristy areas.
Cashless Payment: We appreciated the option to pay through the app, which was particularly useful in a country where carrying cash can sometimes be a hassle.
Inexpensive: The pricing in Cambodia, like Vietnam, was very reasonable. Particularly for the tuk-tuks.

Challenges:

Limited Availability: While Grab was available, it wasn’t as widespread as in Thailand. During peak times or in less touristy areas, we found that wait times could be longer.
Communication: Most of our rides in Siem Reap were silent due to the language barrier.

Final Thoughts: Navigating Southeast Asia with Grab

Overall, Grab was an essential tool during our travels through Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It offered a convenient, affordable, and often culturally immersive way to get around. Each country had its own unique Grab experience, but the app’s consistency and reliability made our journey smoother and more enjoyable.

For anyone planning a trip to Southeast Asia, I highly recommend downloading Grab before you go. Whether you’re catching a ride to Angkor Wat at sunrise, zipping through Bangkok’s traffic on a motorbike, or having pho delivered to your doorstep in Hanoi, Grab is your ticket to a hassle-free adventure in this incredible region.

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An Enchanting Evening on the Chao Phraya River

Our Chao Phraya River dinner cruise became a memorable experience, blending Bangkok’s rich cultural tapestry with the serene beauty of the river at night. As we boarded the luxurious boat, the city bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun, gradually faded into the background. The gentle hum of the boat harmonized with the tranquil sounds of the river, creating a peaceful atmosphere. We quickly realized that the cruise offered a unique vantage point of the city. Bangkok’s old and new architecture coexisted in a mesmerizing display of lights.

Wat Arun lit up against the dark night sky from Chao Phraya River

Dining on the Chao Phraya River

The dining experience aboard the cruise presented a feast for both the eyes and the palate. A lavish buffet greeted us, featuring an impressive selection of Thai and international dishes. The culinary options included an array of appetizers, including fresh seafood, vibrant salads, and traditional Thai delicacies. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Thailand.

Grand Palace at night as seen from Chao Phraya River

Illuminated Landmarks Along The Chao Phraya River

As the evening progressed, the true magic of the Chao Phraya River cruise unfolded. The boat slowly made its way past some of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, each one illuminated against the night sky. The sight of Wat Arun, with its intricately designed spires glowing softly in the dark, took our breath away. The Grand Palace, resplendent with its golden rooftops, stood as a testament to Thailand’s regal history. The Rama VIII Bridge, with its graceful, modern lines, provided a striking contrast to the ancient temples.

Illuminated Ferris Wheel and boat rigging

Final Thoughts

We sipped on wine and enjoyed a selection of decadent sweets, as a gentle breeze drifted across the deck, adding to the peaceful ambiance of the evening. The trip on the river culminated in a dazzling display of fireworks on the river. This cruise offered a perfect blend of cultural immersion, culinary delight, and serene relaxation, making it an evening we will cherish for years to come.

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Dining At Celadon: A Culinary Introduction To Thai Heritage

Our dinner at Celadon, located within the luxurious Sukhothai Hotel in Bangkok, presented an atmosphere nothing short of exceptional. Known for its authentic Thai cuisine, Celadon offers a dining experience that is both elegant and deeply rooted in tradition. The restaurant itself is a serene oasis, with its setting in a beautiful garden pavilion that immediately sets a tranquil tone for the evening. In part, we chose Celadon because it is a Michelin rated restaurant.

As we were seated, we couldn’t help but admire the attention to detail in the decor—delicate lotus flowers, soft lighting, and traditional Thai elements that enhanced the atmosphere. The service was somewhat less impressive than the atmosphere. The staff made us feel welcome, but were not particularly attentive at times.

The menu at Celadon is a tribute to Thailand’s rich culinary heritage, featuring a wide array of dishes that highlight the diversity and complexity of Thai flavors. We started with a node to Thai street food, chicken wrapped in pandan leaves. Fried chicken is a staple at the street stalls in Bangkok. Celadon’s iteration is embellished with leaves, wrapped to form at pocket for the chicken. It is served with three dipping sauces. The chicken was delicious.

For our main dishes my wife opted for the pad thai, while I chose the green curry. I specifically asked if it was possible to order the green curry without fish, shrimp paste, fish sauce or anything related to seafood. I was assured that this was the case, so I proceeded with the green curry, which looked amazing. My wife thoroughly enjoyed her pad thai, but my green curry was not good. I am fairly certain it actually had fish sauce in it. Luckily, I am not allergic. But I didn’t eat my meal.

When the waitress inquired, she seemed confused by my concern. However, she also did not seem inclined to offer a replacement. Nor was a manager called over to assist. I didn’t press the issue, deciding instead to chalk it up to experience and find something light from a street stall later.

Banana and Coconut dessert at Celadon from menu

Dessert was an improved end to our otherwise unsatisfying meal. The rice-wrapped banana and coconut ice cream was tasty and refreshing. The presentation (as with all of the dishes) was as exquisite as the taste. If the attentiveness at Celadon were as impeccable as the presentation, this would have been an unforgettable experience.

Dining at Celadon left me with mixed feelings. The atmosphere and decor were amazing. The food presentation was impeccable. However, the service did not match the other facets of this experience. That was disappointing to say the least. At the price point for this meal, I definitely would have expected more.

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Unforgettable Encounters: A Day at Elephants World Sanctuary

Our visit to Elephants World Sanctuary in Kanchanaburi was a heartwarming and enlightening experience. It offered us a rare opportunity to connect with magnificent creatures in a setting dedicated to their well-being. Located in the lush, green landscapes of western Thailand, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for elephants rescued from the logging and tourism industries, where they often endure harsh conditions. We booked at bangkokelephanttour.com.

Hotel Pick-up

At the break of dawn, we left our hotel in Bangkok for a three-hour ride to Kanchanaburi. Upon arriving at Elephants World Sanctuary, the staff warmly welcomed us and briefed us on the sanctuary’s mission and the importance of ethical elephant tourism. The sanctuary’s commitment to prioritizing the elephants’ needs was refreshing. We engaged intimately with these gentle giants, who are not forced to perform or carry tourists.

Getting Intimate at Elephants World Sanctuary

Our day began with a hands-on experience feeding the elephants. We provided them with small watermelons the size of cantaloupe. The elephants gathered along the rail of a covered lodge where they ate the melons as quickly as we could hand them out. It was incredible to see their personalities shine through, from the playful young elephants to the more reserved older ones.

Eating sugar cane at elephants world sanctuary

After an appetizer of watermelons, we walked down closer to the river to learn more about these amazing creatures. Some of the animals bore scars of their former mistreatment, which included circus performances and logging. The elephants snacked on sugar cane while we learned more about the sanctuary.

Preparing squash rice balls at Elephants World Sanctuary

Feeding the Elephants World Sanctuary Matriarch

One of the elephants, a female, was into her 60s. Because she can’t chew the watermelons or sugarcane, we made rice-balls for her. We chopped squash and boiled it down in a massive pot with rice. After allowing the mixture to cool a bit, we formed rice balls to feed the aging matriarch. It was a sticky mess, but also a fun and very interactive experience.

Enjoying a Mud Bath

After the rice balls, we accompanied the elephants to a nearby mud hole, where visitors were invited to cover the elephants in mud. I was a bit apprehensive, but my wife jumped right in. I was thinking more about the content of the mud in the small pond. It was probably fine, but knowing an elephant is going to add to the mud in the pond wasn’t appealing to me.

Bathing in the river at Elephants World Sanctuary

Washing in the River

After the mud hole, we headed to the river for their daily bath. This was perhaps the most memorable part of the day, as we got into the water alongside the elephants, helping them scrub off the dust and mud. The joy and relaxation they exhibited during their bath were infectious, and it was clear that they were truly at ease in this environment.

Open air lodge at Elephants World Sanctuary

Elephants World Sanctuary Visit Included Lunch

Our visit finished with an excellent buffet style lunch in the open air lodge. The chicken was excellent, as were the papaya salad and array of other treats. The meal was almost an afterthought in the greater scheme of things. But it was included in the price of our visit, so worth mentioning.

Ethical Tourism

Throughout the visit, the sanctuary’s guides provided valuable insights into the elephants’ lives, their history, and the challenges they face in Thailand. They also emphasized the importance of supporting sanctuaries like this one to ensure that elephants can live out their lives in peace and dignity.

Final Thoughts

We left with a deep appreciation for the sanctuary’s work and the majestic animals they care for. It was a day filled with learning, connection, and a sense of hope for the future of these incredible creatures. For anyone visiting Thailand, a visit to an ethical elephant sanctuary is not to be missed. It’s an experience that not only enriches your understanding of these animals but also contributes to a cause that truly makes a difference.

While our visit to the elephant sanctuary included a larger group, our transportation was private. On our way back to Bangkok, our driver stopped at the River Kwai for us to explore a bit before we loaded back up to finish our trek back to our hotel. Overall, an amazing, memorable day.

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