A word of advice: don't book a trip without looking at the map first (especially if you aren't taking malaria tablets!)

That's what happened to us when we visited this sanctuary for elephants. As we arrived, the guide mentioned that we were near the border and well into malaria country. A cloud of jungle spray followed us out of the jeep. I even sprayed where the sun doesn't shine - I was taking no risks...

Once we were up on the elephant and swaying about over the jungle plants we felt a lot better. Helen had a go at the helm while I looked on, anxiously. I think our guide took quite a fancy to her.

When we returned, a few of the elephants laid on a 'show' with dancing and kneeling etc, which I wasn't too sure about. So imagine my disbelief when I turned around and Helen was gone. No, wait, there she was getting a massage from a baby elephant. I think even she had doubts for a minute. The massage must have been pretty good though, I don't think I've ever seen as wide a smile on Helen's face!