Beyond the Sanctuary
By Jess - 1 week intern
Ever since I was little, volunteering with elephants has been one of my biggest dreams. When I discovered KSES, I was immediately drawn to its commitment to ethical elephant conservation and knew it was a place where I wanted to learn and contribute.
From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed. One of my first experiences was enjoying a delicious smoothie from Nee, a woman in the village who takes great pride in making traditional Thai treats. Her banana smoothies and Thai tea quickly became some of my favorites and a small but memorable part of each day.
Seeing the elephants in person has been more magical than I ever imagined. Hiking through the mountains to observe them in their natural environment has been an incredible experience. I have loved watching the mahouts care for the elephants with such dedication, respect, and understanding of their boundaries across different terrains. As a research intern, I have had the opportunity to observe and record elephant behaviors, making each day both exciting and educational.
While the elephants were what first brought me here, it is the people who have made this experience truly unforgettable. The Karen community, the other interns, and especially the staff have welcomed me with such kindness and generosity. My homestay host, Moo Too, has made me feel at home from the very beginning, preparing delicious lunches and dinners every day. I have loved experiencing so many different styles of Thai food, and the rice has easily been one of my favorite parts of every meal.
The children in the village have also left a lasting impression on me. One of my favorite memories was teaching them shapes and colors and receiving a drawing from one of the little boys afterward. It is a small gesture that I will treasure for years to come.
Most of all, I will remember the friendships, laughter, and connections I have shared with so many incredible people. Coming here as a solo traveler for the first time was intimidating, and I was nervous about stepping so far outside of my comfort zone. Instead, I found a community that accepted me, supported me, and treated me with genuine kindness.
As my time here comes to an end, I find myself wishing for just a little more time. This experience has exceeded every expectation I had, and it has changed me in ways I will continue to discover long after I leave. A piece of my heart will always remain at KSES.
