For anyone who loves being in nature, Boon Lott Elephant Sanctuary is a paradise, and a little world unto its own. As a guest, you're treated well with Thai hospitality, and made to feel as much a part of the "family" and activities as you want to. You can join the mahouts gathering sugar cane, help bathe an elephant (or ride one), and go for long walks with the elephants through forest and banana plantation. At no time will you feel like a "tourist"... there are no elephant shows or performances to watch, only elephants living as naturally as possible.

It's so heart-warming to see how the mahouts interact not only with the animals, but with each other. The mahouts work so hard, yet are easy-going and seem to be constantly having fun. They have formed a little community that functions remarkably well.

I've been traveling to Thailand regularly for more than 20 years, and have been all over the country. BLES has now become my favorite place to visit in Thailand, and I feel so sad when it's time to leave!

For more info on the sanctuary, go to its website:

www.blesele.com