What a start to grade 8 experience week in Chiang Mai! Group two kicked things off in a big way with a trip to the Elephant Retirement Park. The elephants were treated to the day at the spa by TIS students. We spent our morning mud bathing, hand feeding, and splashing in the water! There was no surprise when the elephant bath quickly turned into a giant water fight. After a home cooked meal by the staff we then went off to spend the afternoon with the Karen Hill Tribe. While there we learned many skills such as traditional weaving, hunting with a slingshot, and creating hand made snacks. We also learned about the importance of native plants in their tribe. This gave us a great perspective on a community that is self reliant and live life according to their traditional ways. We wrapped up day one with an extra special birthday BBQ and delicious s’mores! Can’t wait to see what tomorrow has in store.