Truly ethical animal experiences are few and far between in this world, particularly in certain regions that are known for exploiting animals for a profit. But the new Jungle Bubbles at the Anantara Resort are a cruelty-free way to learn more about elephants and even see them up close. Read all about them below.
Jungle Bubbles At The Anantara Resort, Thailand
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The prestigious Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort is now giving guests an even better chance to witness the beauty of the elephants on the grounds. The resort has introduced Jungle Bubbles, spacious bedrooms and living spaces that allow guests to truly immerse themselves in their surroundings.
The Jungle Bubbles were constructed using high-tech polyester fabric and Precontraint Serge Ferrari technology. From the comfort of the air-conditioned living space, guests have unrivaled views of the elephants as well as the peaceful night sky.
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Guests stay in the Jungle Bubbles from dawn until dusk, watching closely as the elephants move about in their natural habitat. The rooms come complete with a king bed and seating area under the protection of a transparent roof. There is also an en-suite bathroom inside (that is non-transparent!) and all the usual amenities you’d expect of a five-star resort. Along with bathrobes, premium quality bed linen, and high-end toiletries, guests also have access to 24-hour room service and their very own dinner basket.
Prices for the Jungle Bubbles start at THB 17,700 (approximately $565 USD) per night for two people. The experience is only available to guests of the resort who have already booked additional hotel accommodation.
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Elephant Camps And Experiences
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The Anantara Resort is famed for the ethical animal experiences it offers guests. Their elephant camp gives guests the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with elephants in their natural environment without resorting to cruelty.
The elephants that live at the resort have mostly been rescued from illegal logging camps, elephant shows, or the streets. They accept sponsorships to support the cost of feeding and looking after each elephant, which usually costs around $18,000 USD per year.
Aside from sponsoring an elephant, animal-lovers can also purchase additional elephant experiences to support the gentle giants. One of the most popular discovery experiences is Walking with Giants, which involves walking into the nearby jungle with the elephants and witnessing them in their natural habitat.
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Guests may also book an ELE Elephant Learning Experience. The experts on hand will teach guests about elephant behavior and biology, as well as conservation research. The experience also includes taking the elephants to their bathing area.
There is also the VIP Elephant Arrival, which involves guests who have booked the experience getting to see a small herd of elephants as they enter the resort grounds. Other elephant experiences include Elephant Walk and Yoga, Elephant Picnic, Elephant Walk and Sunset, and Dining by Design at the Elephant Camp. None of the discovery experiences involve riding elephants, elephant shows, elephant tricks, or other forms of cruelty or exploitation.
The Magic Of The Rest Of The Resort
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Anantara is a haven for elephant-lovers, but the resort features several other amenities and facilities that keep guests coming back. Its tranquil jungle setting in northern Thailand makes Anantara the ideal getaway for those looking for rest and rejuvenation.
The on-site spa hosts three treatment suites with their own herbal steam room and outdoor terrace, two deluxe treatment rooms with an al-fresco massage balcony, a beauty salon, and a massage pavilion set in the rice paddies.
There is also a selection of restaurants to choose from, giving guests the opportunity to dine out in the rice paddies or at a summit with a view of three countries at once. Award-winning international breakfasts are served at Sala Mae Nam, as well as premium Thai food all day and night. Guests can also eat Italian food at Baan Dhalia and learn the art of Thai cooking with culinary classes at Spice Spoons.
The hotel accommodation radiates a sense of luxury and exclusivity with only 61 rooms nestled on a jungle hilltop. All rooms include complimentary Wifi, not that guests really need it with all the activities on offer at the resort. There is a phenomenal infinity pool on the grounds, in addition to a hot tub, and a fully-equipped fitness center. Those looking to play sports can enjoy the squash court and the Muay Thai kickboxing ring. Anantara also runs group and single yoga classes set against stunning backdrops.
Other activities on offer at the resort include rice and tree planting, where guests will learn the traditional Thai practice of planting native trees. The resort can also organize a longtail boat trip and a tour of the nearby Hall of Opium Museum.