Wow, this is an epic post, @joanstewart. It was really fun to go on your travels. I'm glad that elephant riding has stopped. I didn't know it was bad for them, but knowing that I am very glad that the animals are treated with care and respect.
I really enjoyed all of your anecdotes about the past, and all the pictures. The review of different accommodations was really interesting! And I loved the monkey story about how they raided the food!
Elephants have earned my respect, most humbling to be in their company.
Tthe other humbling feature is to realize how small and insignificant we are in nature, those water falls blow leave you speechless.