Interacting with Wildlife

Here we go!! After the blood rushed back to normal parts of my body and my stomach was no longer in knots... We had a lite lunch and then went to an elephant sanctuary. This is a home for elephants where they have a lot of land to roam and be free but they are still constantly watched and used for what is called "elephant interaction tours." Elephant interaction was an experience that I will never forget. First the group gets to get take turns holding the elephants trunk and walking it. (This led to me getting a hand full of snot.. For some reason I was okay with it) Hand in trunk I walked with 1 of the 4 elephants at this sanctuary for about 5-8 minutes. I led it all throughout the farm. 

Once others in the group got an opportunity to do this we took turns getting up close and personal with the elephants. I got to feed it, pet it, play with her ears, hold her tail, look in her mouth... Just about anything I wanted it do! It was an awesome experience. I was surprised how rough and dry the skin felt. 

The elephant did a few more tricks such as flapping her ears or kneeling down. It was very cool to be so close to these amazing creatures. 

This was such a beautiful experience. Overall this took about an hour. We then learned a little bit more about elephants. For example, did you know elephants are considered right handed or left handed? You can tell because one tusk is slightly shorter than the other. (Just a little fun fact for you) 

All in all, wonderful interaction with the elephants. Something I have always wanted to do!! 

Again tired after a long day we made it to our hostel. Possibly the best hostel I have ever stayed at. This is an older large home that had been converted into a hostel. It is the definition of cozy. I am currently cozied up by a fire with a blanket watching Harry Potter while writing this. For dinner tonight the owners of the house made us dinner. It was absolutely deliciously amazing!!!! 

Okay again here are some pics! Please enjoy!