Explore Asia Tour

Hours (Open/Closed) Monday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Tuesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Wednesday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Thursday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Friday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

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About Explore Asia Tour

The allure of a boat tour can be quite enticing, especially when the promise of a small group of 15 travelers, kayaking, snorkeling, and whale watching is dangled before you. However, the reality can sometimes be a stark contrast to the expectations set by the glossy descriptions. One such tour, despite its hefty price tag, left much to be desired. The boat was overcrowded, with around 80 people crammed into a space meant for far fewer. The lack of a proper introduction or guidance on how to maneuver the kayaks was a glaring oversight, leaving the travelers to figure it out for themselves. The kayaking experience was brief and rushed, with the journey leading from one beach to another, both littered with washed-up rubbish. The snorkeling experience was equally disappointing, with poor visibility and no guidance provided. The absence of any marine life, let alone whales, was a letdown. The boat's slow speed made the journey to the islands tediously long. The only redeeming feature of this tour was the delicious lunch provided.

In stark contrast to the boat tour, a visit to an elephant sanctuary in Thailand proved to be an unforgettable experience. The opportunity to touch and feed the elephants was a highlight for many. The calm demeanor of these majestic creatures, both with the staff and the tourists, was a sight to behold. The sanctuary staff were knowledgeable and ensured that the visitors understood how to interact safely with the elephants. The sanctuary was a two-hour drive south from Bangkok, with the journey made comfortable by the friendly and accommodating driver, Mr. T. Despite a slight delay in pick-up, the visitors arrived at the sanctuary on time.

The sanctuary visit was not just about observing the elephants, but also about participating in their care. Visitors were encouraged to bring a bathing suit or clothes they didn't mind getting muddy, as they had the opportunity to bathe the elephants. The sanctuary staff were well-informed and explained everything about the elephants and what the visitors would be experiencing. The elephants were well taken care of, and the visitors were given ample time to interact with them before other groups arrived. This allowed the elephants to get familiar with the visitors, making the experience even more enriching.

The sanctuary visit was a half-day trip, with pick-up from the hotel at 5:30 in the morning and return by noon. The driver, Mr. T, ensured that the visitors were well-informed about the day's activities and what they needed to bring. The journey to the sanctuary was filled with great conversation and laughter, making the trip even more enjoyable.

The Pattaya Elephant Sanctuary Team, led by Mr. T, provided exceptional customer service, treating the visitors like royalty. The team's dedication to the welfare of the elephants was evident in their efforts to buy elephants from other companies when they retired or were injured, and restore them to a healthier condition. The tour included everything from meals to photos with the elephants, and even a private driver with a private car or SUV that picked up the visitors directly from their hotel and drove them to the elephant sanctuary. Despite the initial worry about the 2.5-hour drive, the journey was quick and offered beautiful views of the rural areas outside of Bangkok.

The sanctuary visit was an incredible value for money, providing a unique opportunity to interact with elephants in a way that would be impossible in many other countries. The tour also supported a small local business that has worked hard to stay afloat during challenging times. The sanctuary also offered handmade souvenirs for sale, the proceeds of which supported the sanctuary staff and people with disabilities who had made the crafts. This ethical business and the unforgettable experience it offers is a must-add to any itinerary when visiting Bangkok, Thailand.