Family Adventure in Kanchanaburi: A Blend of History, Nature, and Culture

Ethical Encounters and Evening Delights

Today was a day dedicated to compassion and connection, a gentle reminder of the beauty of ethical travel. Kanchanaburi has so much to offer, but today, we focused on experiences that align with our values. It's about making memories that not only enrich our lives but also contribute to a better world. It was a day filled with heartwarming moments, delicious food, and the kind of relaxation that only comes from knowing you're making a positive impact.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at 113 Steak. While steak might seem like an unusual choice in Thailand, I was intrigued by the reviews and, honestly, a little craving for some familiar comfort food. It turned out to be a fantastic start! The steak was cooked just right, and the cozy atmosphere made it a perfect family spot. Thando was particularly thrilled with his meal, and Olivia and I enjoyed a rare moment of peace as he happily munched away. It's funny how sometimes the simplest things, like a well-cooked steak, can bring so much joy when you're far from home. I made a mental note to try some local delicacies tomorrow, but for now, this was a win.

After breakfast, we headed to Elephant Haven Thailand. I've always been fascinated by elephants, but I'm also acutely aware of the ethical concerns surrounding elephant tourism. I did my research and chose Elephant Haven because of their commitment to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants, allowing them to live freely and naturally.


Experience the wonders of Elephant Haven Thailand, a sanctuary dedicated to the care and conservation of elephants in the heart of Kanchanaburi.

The experience was profoundly moving. We spent the morning observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat, learning about their stories and how they were rescued from harmful situations. It was a hands-off experience, which I appreciated, as it allowed us to respect their space and observe their natural behaviors. Thando was mesmerized, watching the elephants play in the mud and interact with each other. It was a far cry from the elephant riding and circus-style performances that, thankfully, are becoming less common. It reinforced my belief that travel should be about connection and respect, not exploitation.

Lunch was at Kin Khao Lam Restaurant. After the emotional morning with the elephants, we were ready for some comforting Thai cuisine. The restaurant had a lovely, welcoming vibe, and the menu was filled with delicious options. We tried a variety of dishes, including the spicy pork stir-fry and a flavorful chicken curry. Thando, surprisingly, enjoyed the chicken curry, although he needed a few extra sips of water to handle the spice. Olivia and I savored every bite, appreciating the authentic flavors and the friendly service. It was the perfect way to refuel and reflect on the morning's experiences.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Kin Khao Lam Restaurant in Kanchanaburi - where every dish tells a story.

Travel is more than just seeing sights; it's about connecting with cultures, respecting animals, and making ethical choices.

In the late afternoon, we considered visiting Chang Puak Elephant Camp, but after our enriching time at Elephant Haven, we decided to spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing and processing our experiences. We found a quiet spot by the river, where Thando played with some local children, and Olivia and I simply enjoyed the peaceful surroundings. It was a moment of simple, unadulterated joy, watching our son connect with others in a new environment. These are the moments I cherish most when we travel – the unexpected connections and the shared experiences that create lasting memories.


Discover the enchanting world of elephants at Chang Puak Elephant Camp in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, where conservation and adventure meet.

As evening approached, we ventured out to Motown Bar Kanchanaburi. I must admit, I was a little skeptical at first – a Motown bar in Thailand? But I'm always up for surprises, and the reviews were intriguing. It turned out to be a fun and quirky spot, with a great selection of drinks and a lively atmosphere. The music was fantastic, a mix of classic Motown hits and some more contemporary tunes. We even got up and danced a little, much to Thando's amusement. It was a lighthearted and enjoyable way to end the day.


Discover the lively Motown Bar in Kanchanaburi, where vibrant nightlife meets friendly faces and unforgettable experiences.

For dinner, we decided to try TABASCO. I had read that it offered a mix of Thai and international cuisine, and I was curious to see what it was like. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the menu was quite extensive. Olivia opted for some traditional Thai dishes, while I decided to try their seafood. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. It was a pleasant and satisfying end to a day filled with diverse experiences.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine at TABASCO in Kanchanaburi—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Reflecting on the day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. We had the opportunity to connect with elephants in an ethical and meaningful way, to savor the flavors of Thai cuisine, and to experience the vibrant nightlife of Kanchanaburi. It was a day that touched my heart and reinforced my commitment to responsible travel.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning to explore the Mueang Sing Historical Park and the Giant Raintree (Monkey Pod Tree). I'm excited to delve deeper into the history and natural beauty of this region, and I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the Giant Raintree; I've heard it's an absolutely breathtaking sight. And of course, we'll be sure to try some local breakfast delicacies at Soon Heng Restaurant before we head out.

As I write this, I'm reminded of something my grandfather used to say: The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page. Today, we turned another page in our family's travel story, and I'm excited to see what adventures await us tomorrow.

Goodnight from Kanchanaburi.