Thailand - Globe Aware

This program was life-changing for me and it's critical for the elephants in Surin that volunteers continue to support it. The work is not overly taxing as there are sufficient breaks due the heat (I was there in March/April - the hottest time of the year). The food is terrific and freshly prepared every day. I'm vegan and there were no issues accommodating my needs. You get to spend a lot of time with the elephants through daily walks where you observe them in the forest and through walks to the river to bathe them. Volunteer support is critical as it show the mahouts and villagers that tourists want to see elephants treated humanely, off chains and able to roam the forest with their elephant friends. Most of the elephants in Surin are chained all day when they are not performing in the circus and are subjected to the bullhook (which is NOT allowed in the project). The Surin Project exists side-by-side with the circus and it can be troubling to see the conditions and treatment many of the elephants endure. But it is imperative that volunteers continue to support Surin Project. It makes a world of difference for the elephants.