What are tourists' attitudes towards elephant attractions?

[Bananas2005]

Hi everyone,

 

This is a topic that I have been curious about since I first came to Thailand last year. The opinions on elephant attractions seem to vary quite a bit. I am currently interning with an NGO in Thailand as a research intern and this is the focal point of my study. I want to have a better understanding on how people, tourists in particular, feel about these attractions. Are they for or against them? I am going to attach a link to my survey if anyone is interested in taking it. The only requirements are that you are 18 or older and are a tourist or have been a tourist in Thailand and do not live there. It is very quick and straight to the point. However, if you do not want to or cannot take it, please feel free to post your opinion on here because I want to hear it. To any of those who are expats in Thailand, how do you feel about this topic? Did your opinion change after moving to Thailand or has it stayed the same? Thanks! 

 

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[fishbrando]

I'm an expat.

 

IMAO animals aren't for entertainment.  It leads to situations like the one with the tiger temple.  

 

This has been my opinion before moving to Thailand so it has stayed the same.

[djayz]

Initially, I visited Thailand as a tourist in 2000 but I've lived here permanently for the past 6 years. 

I've visited one elephant "show", years ago as a tourist. Never again! 

To see these magnificant animals doing tricks to entertain a bunch of spectators simply is not right/moral.

Surely they can be put to better / more productive / natural uses... 

[MissAndry]

I've been to the show, seen them play football and paint, enjoyed it.

Paid extra for a ride, enjoyed it.

I also went along the road to Doi Inthanon and had an elephant ride in the river, enjoyed that too.

 

If the Thais couldn't make money out of them, they would all be dead by now.

[CharlieH]

Canvassing / surveys of members for "research" is NOT permitted.

 

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