Elephants and more!

This morning we went out for a real Thai breakfast with Vaughan. We went to the morning market and had rice with fried chicken and sweet and sour sauce. We also had some sweet sticky rice with banana in the middle and some freshly squeezed orange juice. Over breakfast we talked about our plans to visit Dusit Park, but Vaughan said that there were still demonstrations going on near there as it is close to the palace and government buildings. The demonstrations have been very peaceful, but you never know... so we decided to alter our plans for the day.

We went west of the city to Samphron Elephant Grounds instead. The main attraction there was the elephants. There was an elephant show that described some of the history of elephants in Thailand complete with re-enactments of an elephant hunt, a parade of royalty, and a battle. They also had some tricks and stunts that the elephants could do.

The girls wanted to do the elephant ride. Unlike the rides around the circus ring that you might find in Canada, this was a 20 minute ride around a wooded park with man made lakes and gardens. It was a lot of fun and we all thought the awkward sway of the walking elephant was really neat. We had to stop a few times as the elephants kept pausing for a snack. I hope those flowers grow back quickly!

Another attraction at the park were Mr. Oil and Mr. Lift. We had our picture taken with them. It was a bit scary. I'm sure in Canada you couldn't have you picture taken with a tiger that close, let alone holding its tail! Nice kitty, kitty, kitty!

They also had a crocodile farm and croc show. We were amazed to see them pulling these beasts by the tail, and then putting their hands and even their heads in its mouth! I could hardly look. I'm such a chicken. Speaking of chicken... Yasmin and Roya fed some of the crocs. They got a bucket of chicken parts and used tongs to drop them into the enclosure. The crocodiles, which are normally almost as still as statues, went crazy for the meat.

By the end of the day, I think we were all thankful for the demonstrations near Dusit Park. I think this was much more memorable!

CM