Northern Thailand, particularly Chiang Mai, is a haven for elephant lovers. My journey there was unforgettable, even though it started with a bout of food poisoning.
Chiang Mai is rich in history, founded in 1296 as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom. Today, it attracts travelers with its serene atmosphere, beautiful temples, and, of course, elephants.
One of my favorite experiences was at Pon Elephant Thailand, where I met Meena, an adorable 10-month-old elephant. She had a playful spirit, wrapping her leg around mine and tripping me for laughs. It was a joyful moment—like interacting with a toddler.
After bonding with Meena, we ventured into the Mae Wang jungle to meet more elephants and enjoy their playful antics near a water source. However, not all elephant attractions are responsible. Some claim to be sanctuaries but allow rides and performances. Pon Elephant emphasizes ethical practices, even if some organizations suggest avoiding close contact to prevent stress on the animals.
Unfortunately, my adventure took a turn when I fell ill from food poisoning, likely from eating lukewarm Khao Soi—a delicious local curry noodle dish. The bustling street food scene in Thailand is tempting, but fresh food is crucial. A health expert recommends that travelers always choose piping hot meals to minimize foodborne illnesses.
During my recovery, I discovered a herbal drink called “Flying Rabbit,” which tasted like licorice and helped soothe my stomach. My food choices became simple—bananas, electrolyte powders, and even 7-Eleven’s premade toasties.
Despite the health scare, I appreciated Chiang Mai’s beauty. With over 300 temples, including Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, there’s so much to see. Doi Suthep, especially, offers stunning views of the city at sunset.
For a touch of local cuisine, I took a class at Grandma’s Cooking School. They grow their ingredients on-site, and I enjoyed making delicious dishes like coconut shrimp soup and Pad Thai.
If you plan to visit, staying in the Old Town is ideal. It’s close to historic sites and the vibrant Sunday night market, where local crafts shine.
Despite some ups and downs, I’d return to Chiang Mai. I’d focus more on the elephant sanctuaries and perhaps explore the area’s yoga scene, which I missed during my trip. Although the scenery didn’t match Northern Vietnam’s, the chance to reconnect with Meena would be worth it.
In recent years, elephant conservation in Thailand has improved, with a growing emphasis on ethical tourism practices. Organizations are increasingly highlighting the importance of responsible tourism to protect these magnificent creatures. If you’re interested, more information can be found on World Animal Protection.
Chiang Mai left a mark on me. The elephants, the food, and the culture are experiences I cherish. I’ll surely be back someday!
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Chiang Mai, elephants in Thailand, food poisoning, Northern Thailand, Asian elephant, Meena, Canada, food, Wat Chedi Luang
