Total Thailand
While few subjects elicit more impassioned debate than elephant tourism, there are ethical ways to see the gentle giants up close. Travel company Contiki offers a 14-day “ Total Thailand” trip, covering Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. (Accommodations range from twin-share hotel rooms to jungle cottages.) The Chiang Mai leg includes a visit to the Elephant Nature Park, a rescue and rehabilitation center that allows visitors to feed the animals without exploiting (or riding) them.