"Elephant owner for a day...makes unforgettable stay"

I had the pleasure of spending the day at the Patara Elephant Farm and participate in their "Elephant owner for a day" program, which was an incredible and totally amazing experience (see tagline above). All of the elephants at Patara were rescued from circuses and other abusive situations. We learned how to feed and bathe the elephants, as well as how to check to make sure they are healthy. Needless to say, I know more about elephants than I ever thought I would (as well as some things I wish I didn't). We were all paired with our own elephant and trainer - my elephant's name was Tee Lor Soo (named after a waterfall in Thailand). Teep, my guide/trainer, was awesome, and took so many amazing (and sometimes annoying) pictures.

We took a trek through the jungle and then had lunch at a waterfall, where we were able to swim with the elephants. Elephants are thought to be very good luck in Thailand and according to the owner of the farm, I will have good luck for the rest of my life. Happy to say...so far, so good!