Less than two hours from Phuket, a true Thai beach paradise can be found

The article explores a Thai beach escape just under two hours from Phuket, using the Khao Lak Elephant Home as a centerpiece experience. The writer describes arriving in Khao Lak, known as family-friendly, and meeting Thungthong, a five-year-old Asian elephant rescued from the streets of Bangkok. At the sanctuary, located about a 40-minute drive north of Khao Lak township, the routine centers on gentle walks, mud baths, and large banana feedings. The article cites Thungthong’s profile stating she is “cheerful and spirited” and consumes about 200 kilograms of bananas per day. Her handler, Mr Tee, instructs feeding while the elephant carries out playful trunk and mud-bath behavior, including splashing visitors. The trip is arranged through the driver, Mr Por, who sources tickets and acts as photographer. The article also notes Mr Por’s firsthand memory of the 2004 tsunami that devastated the coastline, emphasizing how the community rebuilt after the disaster.