Coming from an event in Aseana City, I passed through Quirino Avenue on my way home. When I saw the gates of the Manila Zoo, my thoughts immediately turned to Mali, the lone elephant that lived in captivity there until she passed away exactly a year ago.
The sight of the zoo reminded me of my recent trip to Chiang Mai, Thailand, where I had the chance to visit its renowned elephant sanctuaries.
Chiang Mai is famous for its elephant havens, which are a major tourist attraction in the region. Thailand is home to approximately 3,500 elephants, and their welfare is supported by a dedicated center specializing in the treatment of sick and injured elephants. Remarkably, this center also extends its care to elephants from neighboring countries under specific circumstances.
During our tour, I asked a specialist if it would be possible for an elephant from Manila to receive treatment at the center. The response was encouraging: the center might consider such cases if the elephant required advanced care that was unavailable locally and if transportation to Thailand could be arranged safely, without further risk to the animal’s health.
This left me wondering: If Mali had been sent to Thailand for specialized care and placed in a more natural and supportive environment, could her quality of life have improved? Could she have lived a longer, healthier life surrounded by conditions designed to meet her needs? Could she have lived without the moniker “the saddest elephant in the world?” Could Thailand’s elephant sanctuaries have changed Mali’s story?
Known for their gentle demeanor despite their enormous size, elephants are remarkably friendly and intelligent creatures that thrive in groups. I had the opportunity to interact with these magnificent animals for the first time at Hug Chang Elephant Farm, where we fed them, bathed them, and prepared their food under the guidance of their caretakers.
The staff shared fascinating stories about the elephants and taught us about their habits and needs. They also showed us how to prepare herbal medicinal balls—made from natural herbs—that act as vitamins for elephants and can even benefit humans.
One particularly memorable part of the experience was making natural soap. The staff demonstrated how to create sudsy soap from tree bark gathered from the wild. We pounded the bark ourselves, which we then used to bathe the elephants in the nearby river.
It was an unforgettable experience that deepened my appreciation for these gentle giants and the dedication of their caretakers, who treat the elephants ethically, ensuring their well-being and fostering a natural, respectful environment.
A wellness escape rooted in culture
Where can you start your trip with a massage and end it with one as well? Perhaps only in Chiang Mai, Thailand’s “Rose of the North.”
This culturally rich city, known for its ancient temples, vibrant festivals, and lush landscapes, offers travelers a retreat for relaxation and wellness. With countless yoga retreats and traditional Thai massage centers, Chiang Mai has firmly established itself as a destination for rejuvenation.
We arrived at midnight and checked into Melia Chiang Mai, a five-star hotel in the heart of the city. After a leisurely breakfast the following morning, we traveled to Ontai Farm, a less than two-hour drive away, for a day of wellness and cultural immersion.
Our day began with a Miang Kham DIY workshop, where we prepared the traditional Thai appetizer using fresh, local herbs and ingredients, gaining a deeper appreciation for Thai culinary traditions.
Next, we participated in an Herbal Compress Ball workshop led by local artisans, using farm-grown herbs to craft these therapeutic items. The morning concluded with a relaxing foot bath and spa session, an indulgence that also supported the On Tai community massage group.
In the afternoon, we embraced Lanna traditions by dressing in traditional Thai attire and participating in a DIY Krathong workshop at Lanna Resort. Crafting these intricate floating lanterns connected us to the cultural essence of the Loy Krathong Festival. Our guide explained that this is their version of a wishing well, with the only difference being that you place your coin in a flower lantern and release it into the river.
The evening brought culinary exploration and local charm. We visited the Firefly Factory Café for a refreshing break before heading to the Chang Phuak Gate night market. There, we savored street food staples such as grilled pork skewers and khao soi, a Northern Thai noodle dish.
The next morning, we experienced a memorable encounter with nature at HugChang Elephant Farm. Feeding, bathing, and preparing food for the elephants allowed for ethical interactions that underscored the importance of their conservation.
Lunch at Dantewada Angel Café offered a relaxing start to the afternoon, followed by a visit to the vibrant “I Love Flower” garden. Later, a Tuk Tuk city tour brought us to Chiang Mai’s iconic landmarks, including the Three Kings Monument and the historic Chedi Luang Temple.
Our final evening combined elegance and serenity. We enjoyed afternoon tea at Na Nirand Romantic Boutique Resort and admired the sunset at the Intercontinental Rooftop. Dinner at The House by Ginger served modern interpretations of traditional Thai dishes, providing a fitting end to the day.
Before leaving, we indulged in a two-hour aroma oil massage at Let’s Relax Thapae, a perfect way to wrap up the trip. Refreshed and rejuvenated, we departed Chiang Mai with fond memories of its rich culture, natural beauty, and focus on wellness.
Travelers heading to Chiang Mai can now save time and money with Cebu Pacific’s new direct flights. Operating three times a week, this service reduces travel time by up to eight hours. Additionally, passengers can save up to 64 percent on flight costs compared to previous options.
Cebu Pacific also offers flights from Manila and Cebu to Bangkok, providing the choice to land at either Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang International Airport.