In the mountains west of Chiang Mai, Thailand, there is an ethical eco-lodge that seems to be plucked straight out of a dream. Here, surrounded by a gorgeous natural vista, you can observe and interact with majestic (and cheeky) elephants... one of these gentle giants may even visit your hut in the morning for breakfast 'room service'!
More than just an elephant rescue / tourist experience, Chai Lai Orchid also has a human mission at its core. 100% of the lodge's profits go towards the work of Daughters Rising, an NGO specialising in the support and empowerment of at-risk women (mostly indigenous and refugee) who have escaped from horrific situations of exploitation. At the lodge, these women are provided with accommodation, food, meaningful employment with a living wage, and given the skills they need to make a fresh start in society--affording them the dignity that every human being is entitled to.
A couple of days later, we are still in quiet awe of this once-in-a-lifetime place; the fierce intellect (and physicality) of the elephants, the values-driven approach of the staff, and, of course, the serenity of the mountains.
Truly humbling.
Chai Lai Orchid: chailaiorchid....
A note on the elephant ethics: chailaiorchid....
Daughters Rising: daughtersrisin...
Follow us on Instagram: / loganandtim
Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
00:27 - Travelling from Chiang Mai
00:56 - Why We Chose Chai Lai Orchid
01:43 - Lunch at the Cafe
02:18 - Accommodation Tour
02:59 - Walk to the River
03:39 - Elephant Bath Time!
04:33 - Elephant 'Happy Hour'
06:05 - Dinner
07:19 - Sunrise
07:39 - Elephant 'Room Service'
09:05 - Breakfast
10:44 - Closing Thoughts
15 авг 2024
