Chiang Mai: Today it is off to see Dumbo at the Elephant Nature Park about one hour outside of Chiang Mai. This is the place where they rescue elephants that have been mistreated, stepped on land mines or turned loose. There currently are 35 elephants here and a huge sense of social responsibility. (I have fulfilled my Democratic Liberal Bleeding Heart duty for the year). They don’t let you ride the elephants nor do they perform any tricks. A guide/mahout (trainer) takes you to the elephants so you can get up close to feed and touch them. I have decided to spend the night and this is really roughing it! No A/C and they are being kind when they describe this as a “hut”. I guess the mosquito netting surrounding the bed gives me some indication that I will be having visitors tonight.
