WEBVTT 00:00.900 --> 00:06.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 00:06.133 --> 00:08.766 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:27.5% (Rudy Maxa) I'm drifting downriver 00:08.766 --> 00:13.500 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% through the lush forest valley along the Burmese border 00:13.500 --> 00:17.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% to explore the wonders of Thailand's Golden Triangle. 00:17.800 --> 00:20.200 align:start position:10% line:10% size:70% (woman) "Rudy Maxa's World," 00:20.200 --> 00:22.133 align:start position:10% line:10% size:50% proudly sponsored by 00:22.133 --> 00:24.433 align:start position:10% line:10% size:80% The Leading Hotels of the World. 00:24.433 --> 00:28.233 align:start position:10% line:10% size:42.5% Quests for travel begin at LHW.com, 00:28.233 --> 00:30.733 align:start position:10% line:10% size:52.5% where you'll discover a collection 00:30.733 --> 00:34.500 align:start position:10% line:10% size:67.5% of nearly 450 unique hotels worldwide... 00:36.600 --> 00:39.733 align:start position:10% line:10% size:32.5% including the distinctive family 00:39.733 --> 00:42.300 align:start position:10% line:10% size:35% of Taj hotels, resorts, and palaces. 00:42.300 --> 00:44.500 align:start position:10% line:10% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 00:44.500 --> 00:46.566 align:start position:10% line:10% size:27.5% Every quest has a beginning-- 00:46.566 --> 00:50.000 align:start position:10% line:10% size:15% online at LHW.com. 00:50.000 --> 00:53.866 align:start position:10% line:10% size:55% Additional funding for "Rudy Maxa's World" provided by: 00:53.866 --> 00:55.566 align:start position:10% line:10% size:27.5% Medjet.com, 00:55.566 --> 00:59.166 align:start position:10% line:10% size:72.5% medical evacuation membership protection for travelers. 00:59.166 --> 01:01.800 align:start position:10% line:10% size:27.5% Take trips, not chances. 01:01.800 --> 01:03.766 align:start position:10% line:10% size:22.5% And by... 01:05.900 --> 01:07.433 align:start position:10% line:10% size:17.5% Yokoso! 01:07.433 --> 01:09.566 align:start position:10% line:10% size:27.5% Or "Welcome to Japan." 01:09.566 --> 01:14.066 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% And by Delta--serving hundreds of destinations worldwide. 01:14.066 --> 01:16.066 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:27.5% Information to plan your next trip 01:16.066 --> 01:19.066 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% available at delta.com. 01:19.066 --> 01:29.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 01:35.066 --> 01:45.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 01:49.366 --> 01:52.566 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (Rudy) Northern Thailand's fertile mountains and verdant valleys 01:52.566 --> 01:56.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% are home to a diverse array of cultures and traditions. 01:58.100 --> 02:03.500 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5% This is a land of sacred places and ancient customs, 02:03.500 --> 02:07.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% of the deeply spiritual and truly exotic. 02:07.200 --> 02:09.833 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:65% Here, elephants and humans 02:09.833 --> 02:12.433 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:77.5% have formed deep relationships, 02:12.433 --> 02:14.733 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% and skilled artisans create 02:14.733 --> 02:18.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% an ever-evolving kaleidoscope of color and form. 02:19.800 --> 02:23.700 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% This mountainous land known as the Golden Triangle 02:23.700 --> 02:27.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% was once the opium producing capital of Asia. 02:27.200 --> 02:30.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80% Today, it's virtually poppy free and tourist friendly. 02:30.900 --> 02:34.000 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 02:34.000 --> 02:38.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% The Golden Triangle covers more than 200 square miles, 02:38.433 --> 02:40.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:30% encompassing the mountainous region 02:40.800 --> 02:44.400 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:37.5% of Burma, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand. 02:44.400 --> 02:47.700 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:42.5% The border region of northern Thailand is home 02:47.700 --> 02:51.500 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% to about 20 different ethnic groups, or hill tribes. 02:51.500 --> 02:55.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% Each hill tribe has its own language and unique traditions. 02:55.600 --> 02:58.833 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% Just getting to the tribes is an adventure, 02:58.833 --> 03:02.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:42.5% a magical journey on elephant and bamboo raft 03:02.200 --> 03:05.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:35% into the heart of the Golden Triangle. 03:05.033 --> 03:06.833 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% The forest is primeval, 03:06.833 --> 03:10.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% as if ripped from the pages of Kipling's "Jungle Book." 03:10.033 --> 03:13.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% There are very few places like this left in the world, 03:13.266 --> 03:15.666 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% and those that do remain are rapidly disappearing. 03:15.666 --> 03:18.366 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% In northern Thailand, you can still find 03:18.366 --> 03:20.700 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% lush forests and authentic hill tribe cultures. 03:20.700 --> 03:24.000 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% Elephants have been part of Thai life and culture 03:24.000 --> 03:25.733 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% for thousands of years. 03:25.733 --> 03:28.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% Mahouts, the drivers and caretakers of elephants, 03:28.300 --> 03:31.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% will often spend more time with their elephants 03:31.133 --> 03:32.966 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% than with their own families. 03:32.966 --> 03:36.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% It's a bond unlike any other in the animal kingdom. 03:36.333 --> 03:39.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% My journey to a nearby Lisu village begins 03:39.100 --> 03:41.500 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:80% at the Mae Ta Man elephant camp. 03:41.500 --> 03:44.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% There's no experience quite like riding an elephant. 03:44.633 --> 03:47.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:35% Ah, the rustle of the tall grass, 03:47.433 --> 03:49.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:30% the music of the fast-flowing creek, 03:49.800 --> 03:54.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% this is the way to see the countryside and the jungle 03:54.200 --> 03:56.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% aboard the ultimate all-terrain vehicle. 04:00.266 --> 04:02.100 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:47.5% The Lisu are one of 04:02.100 --> 04:05.066 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% the 6 main hill tribes of northern Thailand. 04:05.066 --> 04:08.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% They're thought to have originated in eastern Tibet 04:08.100 --> 04:11.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5% and migrated down through China and into Burma and Thailand. 04:11.800 --> 04:13.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% Their colorful clothing is reminiscent 04:13.600 --> 04:15.800 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:70% of the Kang people of Tibet. 04:15.800 --> 04:16.800 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:50% [bamboo flute plays] 04:16.800 --> 04:19.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 04:19.433 --> 04:23.233 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% Music is an intrinsic part of Lisu life. 04:23.233 --> 04:25.100 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:55% It's used to celebrate 04:25.100 --> 04:27.000 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% homecomings, hunts, and harvests. 04:29.000 --> 04:31.666 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% This small community was once isolated, 04:31.666 --> 04:35.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% but today the village is accessible to tourists. 04:35.300 --> 04:39.066 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5% Most of their income comes from selling handicrafts to visitors. 04:39.066 --> 04:41.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% For many hill tribes in Thailand, 04:41.266 --> 04:45.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% the balance between tradition and tourism is a delicate one. 04:45.033 --> 04:50.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 04:50.166 --> 04:51.933 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:65% Long-tail boats, which are 04:51.933 --> 04:53.366 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:52.5% basically canoes with 04:53.366 --> 04:55.066 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:55% great big car engines, 04:55.066 --> 04:56.900 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:65% carry goods and passengers 04:56.900 --> 04:58.833 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:70% along the idyllic Kok River, 04:58.833 --> 05:02.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% past verdant hills, tribal huts, and rice paddies. 05:02.133 --> 05:05.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:37.5% Long-tail boats are the best way 05:05.466 --> 05:09.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% to navigate the sometis treacherous Kok River. 05:09.333 --> 05:11.733 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% Water levels can fluctuate dramatically, 05:11.733 --> 05:16.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% exposing large rocks with just the narrowest gaps between them. 05:16.466 --> 05:18.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% The long-tail allows the driver to quickly 05:18.800 --> 05:21.133 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:75% pull the prop out of the water 05:21.133 --> 05:24.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% to prevent it from being shattered in the shallows. 05:24.100 --> 05:26.966 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:32.5% The Kok River originates in Burma 05:26.966 --> 05:31.066 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:40% and flows across the Thai border into Chiang Rai. 05:31.066 --> 05:34.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:30% A scattering of hill tribe communities 05:34.333 --> 05:37.100 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:65% cling to the river's edge. 05:40.000 --> 05:43.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% Nan runs My Dream Guesthouse on the outskirts 05:43.900 --> 05:46.166 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:62.5% of a small Karen village. 05:46.166 --> 05:48.533 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:62.5% Sawadee khrap! I am Rudy. 05:48.533 --> 05:50.233 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:37.5% My name's Nan. 05:50.233 --> 05:52.000 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% Nan, nice to meet you. And this is your guesthouse? 05:52.000 --> 05:53.266 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:37.5% Yes. My Dream. 05:53.266 --> 05:55.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:17.5% Tell me how many different tribes 05:55.266 --> 05:57.866 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:42.5% live in this area around My Dream Guesthouse? 05:59.533 --> 06:00.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:20% What are their names? 06:07.566 --> 06:10.766 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:42.5% Do they all speak different languages? 06:17.266 --> 06:18.566 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:20% Alright. 06:21.400 --> 06:23.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% Although roads have brought the outside world 06:23.933 --> 06:26.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% to their doorstep, the villages still retain 06:26.466 --> 06:29.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% much of their traditional way of life. 06:29.466 --> 06:32.866 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:32.5% Nan, what are these women making? 06:57.033 --> 06:57.066 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% (Rudy) ...in the middle, yes. 06:58.733 --> 07:02.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% Is the cotton the weavers are using grown here in the village? 07:05.033 --> 07:06.600 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:40% ...in the field. 07:06.600 --> 07:09.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 07:09.266 --> 07:13.433 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (Rudy) In this area, many different hill tribes live side by side. 07:13.433 --> 07:16.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% Each has its own customs and language, 07:16.466 --> 07:21.533 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% but they all share one thing in common, the love of dance. 07:28.100 --> 07:30.466 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% When you speak to them, you speak in Lahu? 07:31.433 --> 07:33.766 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 07:33.766 --> 07:37.700 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (Rudy) Almost all traditional dances have some spiritual significance 07:37.700 --> 07:41.700 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% giving thanks for a fruitful harvest or successful hunt. 07:41.700 --> 07:45.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% One of the most common Lahu dances 07:45.133 --> 07:48.166 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:77.5% is known as the stomping dance. 07:48.166 --> 07:51.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% In this dance, the pipe player leads the other dancers 07:51.933 --> 07:53.733 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:70% as they mimic his movements. 07:53.733 --> 07:56.500 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 07:56.500 --> 07:58.200 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% The Lahus are animists, 07:58.200 --> 08:02.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% believing that all things in nature have spirits or souls. 08:02.433 --> 08:04.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:42.5% They believe that there's one spirit 08:04.933 --> 08:07.000 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% that controls all the others. 08:09.733 --> 08:12.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% The evening celebrations conclude with the 08:12.100 --> 08:14.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% launching skyward of traditional paper lanterns... 08:14.466 --> 08:18.500 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% I'm amazed I haven't set myself on fire here yet. 08:18.500 --> 08:21.066 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% ...a way of thanking the spirits 08:21.066 --> 08:23.500 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% and sending wishes into the heavens. 08:23.500 --> 08:25.233 align:start position:40% line:84.67% size:15% Okay. 08:25.233 --> 08:26.666 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:27.5% (man) Okay! 08:29.733 --> 08:33.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 08:33.933 --> 08:35.600 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:55% High in the lush hills 08:35.600 --> 08:37.233 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:45% of Doi Mae Salong, 08:37.233 --> 08:38.933 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:55% it's tea harvest time. 08:38.933 --> 08:40.600 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:55% A mix of Lisu and Akha 08:40.600 --> 08:43.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% live among these hills and do most of the picking. 08:43.600 --> 08:49.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 08:49.566 --> 08:52.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% The Golden Triangle has long been synonymous 08:52.300 --> 08:56.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% with the production of opium, but a crop substitution program 08:56.200 --> 09:00.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% by the Thai government in the 1970s changed all that. 09:00.166 --> 09:02.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:55% These hills were once covered with poppies. 09:02.266 --> 09:03.933 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:35% Today, they're tea plantations. 09:03.933 --> 09:06.033 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:77.5% Now, the very best tea is made 09:06.033 --> 09:09.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% by picking the young sprigs at the top of each plant. 09:09.333 --> 09:12.400 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5% These plants can be reharvested every month and a half. 09:12.400 --> 09:14.433 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:62.5% Tea is harvested by hand. 09:14.433 --> 09:18.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% Only the first 2 leaves of each shoot are picked. 09:18.566 --> 09:20.200 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:65% A single worker can gather 09:20.200 --> 09:24.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% an average of 30 pounds of green tea in a single day. 09:25.833 --> 09:30.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% The process of pouring and tasting tea is an art in itself. 09:32.766 --> 09:34.400 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:32.5% Khorb koon. 09:34.400 --> 09:36.133 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:42.5% So the proper way 09:36.133 --> 09:38.900 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:50% to taste tea here is to take off this top cup. 09:38.900 --> 09:41.033 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% Now your little cup is filled with tea. 09:41.033 --> 09:43.733 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% This is very warm. It's been bathed in hot water. 09:43.733 --> 09:46.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% You have to rub it in your hand to feel the warmth. 09:46.900 --> 09:48.633 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:55% Then you nose this... 09:48.633 --> 09:51.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5% much like you might be nosing a rare wine. 09:51.266 --> 09:53.466 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5% Notice if it's floral, if it's bitter. 09:53.466 --> 09:56.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:37.5% Set that down. Then you nose the actual tea. 09:58.466 --> 10:02.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% Again notice its fragrance, its flavors, and then sip it. 10:02.200 --> 10:04.066 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% Never, never swallow big swallows. 10:06.700 --> 10:10.233 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% Ah, this is a very gentle Oolong from the hills here. 10:10.233 --> 10:13.000 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% If you like it, you can smile at the server 10:13.000 --> 10:14.700 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:52.5% and say "very good!" 10:19.666 --> 10:21.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% Well, I was looking for adventure, 10:21.333 --> 10:23.500 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% and I guess I found it. 10:23.500 --> 10:25.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% The rains come quickly in the tropics, 10:25.433 --> 10:27.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% and it's easy to get stuck in the mud. 10:27.900 --> 10:29.533 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:45% But we're in luck. 10:29.533 --> 10:32.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:32.5% A cowboy monk from the Golden Horse Monastery 10:32.633 --> 10:34.300 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:42.5% comes to our aid. 10:34.300 --> 10:38.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% The question is, can this group of novice monks 10:38.100 --> 10:42.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% and hill tribe villagers really get us up the hill? 10:42.333 --> 10:44.433 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:50% [men exclaim loudly] 10:44.433 --> 10:47.000 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:35% [engine races] 10:53.033 --> 10:55.300 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:60% Even Armin is impressed. 10:55.300 --> 11:00.366 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% Armin Schoch runs Impulse Tourism out of Chiang Mai. 11:00.366 --> 11:02.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% He's gotten himself out of some pretty tight spots 11:02.800 --> 11:05.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% over the years, but he's never seen anything like this. 11:05.466 --> 11:07.533 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:37.5% Sheer manpower. 11:07.533 --> 11:11.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:35% Sheer strength and determination. 11:11.633 --> 11:13.066 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:52.5% Unbelievable! Well! 11:13.066 --> 11:16.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% No, I pull my hat. I pull my hat. 11:16.166 --> 11:18.266 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:20% You pull your hat to that? 11:18.266 --> 11:21.100 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:55% I'll doff my hat too. That was amazing. 11:21.100 --> 11:24.200 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (Rudy) With the excitement over, the villagers pack up, 11:24.200 --> 11:27.000 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% and the novice monks return to daily chores. 11:27.000 --> 11:30.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% Historically, horses have been used in the area 11:30.266 --> 11:32.366 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:65% due to the rugged terrain. 11:32.366 --> 11:35.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% The distance between villages is so great 11:35.266 --> 11:37.733 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% the monks collect alms on horseback. 11:40.500 --> 11:44.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% The Golden Horse Monastery was founded by ex-Thai kickboxer 11:44.166 --> 11:46.500 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:52.5% Pra Kru Ba Nuea Chai. 11:46.500 --> 11:48.166 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:70% He established the monastery 11:48.166 --> 11:49.866 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% along the Thai-Burmese border 11:49.866 --> 11:51.533 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:40% in the middle of 11:51.533 --> 11:53.266 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:80% a major opium trafficking route. 11:53.266 --> 11:56.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% It would take an ex-kick boxer turned cowboy monk 11:56.133 --> 11:59.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% to bring Dharma to the front lines of a drug war. 11:59.600 --> 12:02.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% He stood up against a powerful drug lord 12:02.200 --> 12:04.366 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:37.5% armed only with the teachings of Buddha. 12:04.366 --> 12:09.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% The tattoos covering his body are a testament to his faith. 12:09.166 --> 12:12.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80% Ancient texts, Buddhist symbols, and mythological animals 12:12.200 --> 12:16.000 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% provide protection, ward off evil, and give him strength. 12:16.000 --> 12:18.766 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% The opium trade damaged the traditional society 12:18.766 --> 12:21.233 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:67.5% of hill tribes in the area, 12:21.233 --> 12:23.233 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:25% especially the lives of children. 12:23.233 --> 12:25.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% Many young boys orphaned by the drug trade 12:25.800 --> 12:28.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% have been taken in by the monastery. 12:28.100 --> 12:31.000 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% Other monks have now taken up the Abbott's cause. 12:31.000 --> 12:33.900 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:40% [speaking Thai] 12:33.900 --> 12:36.733 align:start position:20% line:74% size:47.5% [Armin interprets] He's saying that most of the kids here 12:36.733 --> 12:38.366 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:80% come from villages around here. 12:38.366 --> 12:40.766 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5% This is a border area, as we know. 12:40.766 --> 12:45.733 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% Most of these kids are kids that were not looked after, 12:45.733 --> 12:48.400 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% either mother/father dead, or that got 12:48.400 --> 12:51.066 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% indirectly involved in the drugs trade 12:51.066 --> 12:54.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% because father/mother was involved in the drug trade. 12:54.633 --> 12:57.533 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% So the main purpose seem to be 12:57.533 --> 13:00.566 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:45% to take these kids out of that environment, 13:00.566 --> 13:02.633 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:42.5% bring them here, teach them Buddhism, 13:02.633 --> 13:05.533 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% give them a purpose in life, all right? 13:05.533 --> 13:07.233 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:60% He says that altogether 13:07.233 --> 13:09.700 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:55% they're looking after more than 200 kids. 13:09.700 --> 13:12.666 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% (Rudy) 200! (Armin) Not all of them are here. 13:12.666 --> 13:14.933 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% There's only 30, 40 that are here. 13:14.933 --> 13:17.166 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:35% But altogether there are more than 200. 13:17.166 --> 13:19.800 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% He's hoping that through donations, etc, they will 13:19.800 --> 13:23.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% have the means to actually increase their project here 13:23.300 --> 13:27.066 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% and to receive them all, the idea being that once 13:27.066 --> 13:30.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% they've been able to teach these young novices, 13:30.200 --> 13:32.100 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:60% they can send them back 13:32.100 --> 13:34.766 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:55% into their respective villages to be leaders. 13:36.433 --> 13:39.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:15% (Rudy) It's dawn in Chiang Mai, 13:39.133 --> 13:40.466 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:40% the largest city 13:40.466 --> 13:41.866 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:52.5% in northern Thailand. 13:41.866 --> 13:45.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% Every morning throughout the city, monks collect alms. 13:45.466 --> 13:47.666 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:75% Monks are not allowed to cook. 13:47.666 --> 13:49.533 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:35% They depend on Buddhist followers 13:49.533 --> 13:51.433 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:65% to provide them with food. 13:51.433 --> 13:54.833 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:42.5% They eat only one or 2 meals a day. 13:54.833 --> 13:57.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:40% They must finish eating before noon. 13:57.033 --> 13:59.366 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% They're not allowed to keep food. 13:59.366 --> 14:04.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% Any extra is donated to the poor or given to stray animals. 14:04.100 --> 14:06.766 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 14:06.766 --> 14:10.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5% Western backpackers and hippies flocked to Chiang Mai 14:10.100 --> 14:14.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% in the '70s, but today, this northern Thai town is home 14:14.566 --> 14:17.866 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% to sophisticated designer craft shops and luxury resorts, 14:17.866 --> 14:22.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% all set against the backdrop of lush green rice paddies, 14:22.033 --> 14:24.066 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:77.5% and wats with gleaming Buddhas. 14:26.100 --> 14:29.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% King Mengrai founded Chiang Mai in 1296 14:29.600 --> 14:34.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% as the new capital of his expanding Lanna Thai empire. 14:34.633 --> 14:38.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% The old town surrounded by a defensive wall and moat 14:38.900 --> 14:40.633 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:52.5% has dozens of temples 14:40.633 --> 14:43.966 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% decorated with ornately carved wood and shimmering gold. 14:43.966 --> 14:48.966 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% Chiang Mai is home to more than 300 Buddhist wats. 14:56.466 --> 14:58.200 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:42.5% Wat Chiang Mun is 14:58.200 --> 15:00.766 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:80% the oldest temple in Chiang Mai. 15:00.766 --> 15:02.433 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% King Mengrai lived here 15:02.433 --> 15:05.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% while supervising the construction of the city. 15:05.433 --> 15:09.400 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% Inside, the temple walls are covered in murals 15:09.400 --> 15:12.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% depicting ancient battles and significant religious events. 15:12.933 --> 15:16.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% I'm in the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, and I'm seeing 15:16.433 --> 15:19.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5% something here I've never seen before in a Buddhist temple. 15:19.566 --> 15:21.200 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% You'll notice that emanating 15:21.200 --> 15:24.466 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:55% from the left thumb of the Buddha are 2 strings. 15:24.466 --> 15:27.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% One stretches this way to the side of the temple, 15:27.933 --> 15:30.333 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:77.5% where a monk can sit and pray. 15:30.333 --> 15:33.400 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% The other stretches out here to the main room 15:33.400 --> 15:37.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% where a person can come and sit and tie this string 15:37.266 --> 15:40.033 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:45% which is all part of the string network. 15:40.033 --> 15:44.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% Tie the string to their head, and it's said by sitting here 15:44.200 --> 15:47.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% while the monk is praying and meditating on the Buddha, 15:47.633 --> 15:49.366 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% your life can be prolonged. 15:49.366 --> 15:56.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 15:56.033 --> 15:59.666 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% Chiang Mai is famous for its handicrafts-- 15:59.666 --> 16:02.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:47.5% silk, woodcarvings, necklaces and bracelets. 16:02.266 --> 16:04.766 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% There's no better place to go bargain hunting 16:04.766 --> 16:06.533 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:25% than here at the night market. 16:06.533 --> 16:14.533 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 16:14.533 --> 16:16.866 align:start position:20% line:74% size:40% Is it too big? No, no. 16:16.866 --> 16:20.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 16:20.466 --> 16:22.300 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:52.5% Hello. Sawadee Kha. 16:22.300 --> 16:25.866 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:42.5% Oh, I like these. Is this all one piece of wood? 16:25.866 --> 16:27.833 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% Yes, it's one piece. Mango wood. 16:27.833 --> 16:30.100 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:27.5% Mango wood. Okay, we do it. Okay. 16:30.100 --> 16:31.666 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:12.5% Khaap khun Khrap. Kha. 16:31.666 --> 16:32.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 16:32.900 --> 16:36.233 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:77.5% Showrooms around the city offer 16:36.233 --> 16:38.333 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:75% high-quality handcrafted goods 16:38.333 --> 16:42.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% that increasingly mix modern and traditional design. 16:42.166 --> 16:45.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 16:45.333 --> 16:47.566 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:67.5% Scattered around Chiang Mai 16:47.566 --> 16:50.966 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% are small villages of skilled artisans. 16:53.533 --> 16:56.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% The village of Borsang is renowned 16:56.633 --> 16:58.466 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:67.5% for its decorative parasols 16:58.466 --> 17:00.100 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:47.5% crafted from bamboo 17:00.100 --> 17:02.100 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:75% and covered in mulberry paper, 17:02.100 --> 17:04.133 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:37.5% silk or cotton. 17:04.133 --> 17:07.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% Every umbrella is handmade from start to finish, 17:07.633 --> 17:10.233 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% each design distinctive with every artist 17:10.233 --> 17:14.500 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% adding his own signature to a dazzling array of parasols. 17:14.500 --> 17:17.900 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:45% The artists at the Bo Sang Umbrella Factory 17:17.900 --> 17:19.700 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% don't just paint umbrellas. 17:19.700 --> 17:23.066 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5% They'll paint purses, wallets, cell phones, jean jackets, 17:23.066 --> 17:25.200 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% even my Blackberry, I think. 17:25.200 --> 17:27.000 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:37.5% Sawadee khrap. 17:27.000 --> 17:29.400 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40% Can you paint on the back of this? 17:29.400 --> 17:33.200 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:20% You can. Maybe this silver dragon? 17:33.200 --> 17:40.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 17:40.200 --> 17:42.300 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:40% This is amazing. 17:42.300 --> 17:46.466 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:62.5% It took her 2-1/2 minutes to put the silver dragon 17:46.466 --> 17:49.000 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:75% on the back of my Blackberry. 17:49.000 --> 17:50.600 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:52.5% The only guy in town 17:50.600 --> 17:53.200 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% with a dragon on the back of his Blackberry. 17:53.833 --> 17:55.833 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 17:55.833 --> 17:58.300 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:77.5% Just minutes north of the city, 17:58.300 --> 18:00.766 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:35% but miles away in terms of ambiance, 18:00.766 --> 18:02.866 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:40% the Four Seasons Chiang Mai Resort 18:02.866 --> 18:06.700 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% is set in a valley ringed by mountains and rice fields. 18:06.700 --> 18:11.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% The resort is all Lanna architecture-- teakwood, 18:11.133 --> 18:15.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% buildings on stilts, boardwalks, and steep roofs. 18:15.633 --> 18:18.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% The effect is like staying in a rural village 18:18.300 --> 18:21.533 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% and in the lap of luxury all at the same time. 18:21.533 --> 18:26.233 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 18:26.233 --> 18:28.833 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% My adventure is not over yet. 18:28.833 --> 18:33.066 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% A long-tail boat ferries me to a remote forest camp, 18:33.066 --> 18:36.100 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:75% but this is not just any camp. 18:36.100 --> 18:39.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 18:39.333 --> 18:41.466 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:52.5% Welcome to the camp. 18:41.466 --> 18:44.566 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (Rudy) Thank you. Sawadee khrap. It's nice to be here. 18:44.566 --> 18:46.366 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:42.5% Welcome. Normally we hit the gong 18:46.366 --> 18:49.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% to let the spirits and the rest of the campers know that... 18:49.800 --> 18:52.466 align:start position:10% line:74% size:37.5% I hit the gong? (man) Yes, please. [low, resonant gong] 18:52.466 --> 18:55.966 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (Rudy) This is to let the Gods know I'm here? 18:55.966 --> 18:58.466 align:start position:10% line:74% size:12.5% (man) Yes, yes, because you're our guest. 18:58.466 --> 19:00.966 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:52.5% I'm roughing it here in Thailand's infamous 19:00.966 --> 19:03.066 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5% Golden Triangle in a tented camp, 19:03.066 --> 19:07.133 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:40% and believe me, I am one happy camper. 19:09.766 --> 19:14.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% That's because this is the Four Seasons tented camp, 19:14.300 --> 19:17.366 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% an incredible adventure, a stunning location. 19:17.366 --> 19:21.300 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% Modeled on luxury safari camps in Africa, 19:21.300 --> 19:25.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% the tented camp is romantic, remote, luxurious, 19:25.200 --> 19:29.033 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:32.5% ecofriendly, and out of this world. 19:29.033 --> 19:32.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% Guests wake to the chorus of jungle birds 19:32.633 --> 19:35.333 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% and elephants crunching in the brush. 19:35.333 --> 19:37.200 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:32.5% [crunching] 19:39.233 --> 19:43.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% For thousands of years, Asian elephants were used 19:43.300 --> 19:46.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% for labor-- hauling, logging, plowing fields, fighting wars, 19:46.800 --> 19:49.500 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:42.5% but modernization has changed all that 19:49.500 --> 19:51.233 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:27.5% threatening the centuries-old bond 19:51.233 --> 19:53.866 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:35% between humans and these magnificent creatures. 19:59.233 --> 20:01.200 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:60% John Roberts is director 20:01.200 --> 20:04.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% of the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation. 20:04.633 --> 20:08.966 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80% He has his hands full caring for more than 35 rescued elephants. 20:08.966 --> 20:11.466 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:52.5% What is the state of Asian elephants today? 20:11.466 --> 20:13.400 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:37.5% There's really, really no work left 20:13.400 --> 20:15.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% for Asian elephants, domesticated Asian elephants. 20:15.300 --> 20:17.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% Wild elephants are in the jungle, 20:17.166 --> 20:18.900 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:75% but the jungle's disappearing. 20:18.900 --> 20:21.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% There's nothing that they can do that isn't done 20:21.133 --> 20:23.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% twice as efficiently and for twice as long 20:23.166 --> 20:25.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% and twice as cheaply by a diesel engine. 20:25.433 --> 20:27.700 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% They find themselves either working in tourist camps, 20:27.700 --> 20:29.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% or when they can't find tourist work, especially 20:29.900 --> 20:32.366 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5% with young elephants, they find themselves out of work 20:32.366 --> 20:34.633 align:start position:10% line:74% size:60% and on the streets in... With their mahouts? 20:34.633 --> 20:36.533 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% ...with their mahouts, in pretty poor conditions, 20:36.533 --> 20:39.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% not able to look after them very well down there. 20:39.300 --> 20:41.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:62.5% That's where many of your elephant's mahouts came from. 20:41.200 --> 20:42.600 align:start position:20% line:68.67% size:12.5% Yes. 20:42.600 --> 20:44.233 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! 20:44.233 --> 20:46.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:40% What's the story with this elephant? [laughs] 20:46.466 --> 20:48.666 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:52.5% We're rescuing you! 20:48.666 --> 20:51.733 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% When she was born, her mom didn't have any milk, 20:51.733 --> 20:54.833 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% and so her mahout stayed up 24 hours a day 20:54.833 --> 20:57.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% bottle-feeding her and just making sure she survived. 20:57.633 --> 20:59.833 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% After about 3 months, they ran out of money. 20:59.833 --> 21:02.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:57.5% She was very, very tiny and a sickly thing, 21:02.133 --> 21:04.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% then we rescued them, we brought her up here. 21:04.300 --> 21:06.000 align:start position:40% line:79.33% size:42.5% Is she's sucking on your finger now? 21:06.000 --> 21:08.733 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% She's suckling on my thumb, she likes to suck on the thumbs. 21:08.733 --> 21:10.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% It's getting towards the end of the day. 21:10.566 --> 21:12.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% And you are causing trouble, aren't you Babe. 21:12.300 --> 21:15.266 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:35% [Rudy laughs] 21:15.266 --> 21:17.666 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:77.5% She's curious about the camera. 21:17.666 --> 21:21.400 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (John) Elephants like these who are too young to do tourist work, 21:21.400 --> 21:23.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% who find themselves in the cities, 21:23.566 --> 21:27.700 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% we try and bring them up, give them a good life, a childhood. 21:27.700 --> 21:30.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% At least there will be a population of well-balanced, 21:30.466 --> 21:33.566 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% healthy elephants who had an elephant childhood and go on 21:33.566 --> 21:38.000 align:start position:10% line:74% size:45% [elephant squeals] to the next step whether it be go out into the forests, 21:38.000 --> 21:41.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% or whether there's some work they can do somewhere else. 21:41.033 --> 21:42.933 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:57.5% Is that a happy sound? 21:42.933 --> 21:45.533 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% That's a happy sound. (Rudy) Oh good! 21:45.533 --> 21:48.633 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (Rudy) Mahouts, the caretakers and drivers of elephants, 21:48.633 --> 21:51.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% form intense bonds with the animals they keep. 21:51.633 --> 21:54.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% Because elephants can live up to 80 years, 21:54.466 --> 21:57.233 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% mahouts often spend their entire life with them. 21:57.233 --> 22:00.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% At the Foundation, visitors can become mahouts for a day. 22:00.800 --> 22:03.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:45% Will this elephant listen to my commands 22:03.133 --> 22:05.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:27.5% even though I'm not her regular...? 22:05.200 --> 22:06.833 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:45% Yes, our elephant is very well-trained 22:06.833 --> 22:08.500 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:30% and lovely. They know everything. 22:08.500 --> 22:10.200 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% So they'll understand me too? 22:10.200 --> 22:11.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% They don't just listen to their regular mahout. 22:11.900 --> 22:14.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% Yes, that's why I teach you how to use the command here. 22:14.933 --> 22:16.900 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:55% Okay. So "bai" for go. 22:16.900 --> 22:18.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:12.5% "Ben" for turn. Yes. 22:18.800 --> 22:20.233 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:47.5% And "How" for stop. 22:20.233 --> 22:22.400 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:15% How-- like this-- "Ho-uw"... 22:22.400 --> 22:24.633 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:32.5% How-- Stop. 22:24.633 --> 22:26.266 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:32.5% Song soong!. 22:26.266 --> 22:29.633 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:72.5% My God, she actually did it! 22:35.766 --> 22:38.000 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:42.5% I'm almost there. 22:39.666 --> 22:41.933 align:start position:20% line:84.67% size:52.5% Oh, this is high up! 22:41.933 --> 22:45.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% It's higher up than it looks like from the ground. 22:46.033 --> 22:49.166 align:start position:30% line:84.67% size:35% Soong! Soong! 22:49.166 --> 22:52.333 align:start position:40% line:84.67% size:22.5% Bai! Bai! 22:52.333 --> 22:55.600 align:start position:40% line:84.67% size:22.5% How! How! 22:55.600 --> 22:59.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:72.5% It actually works. I'm ready to go into the deepest jungle. 22:59.200 --> 23:02.533 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60% 'Course I don't know how to get off the elephant, 23:02.533 --> 23:05.833 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:45% but as long as I'm on the elephant I'm okay. 23:05.833 --> 23:15.800 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 23:21.366 --> 23:24.900 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:30% Ah-ha-huh! Very slow. 23:24.900 --> 23:31.700 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 23:31.700 --> 23:35.800 align:start position:10% line:74% size:15% (Rudy) Bath time is bonding time for mahouts and their elephants 23:35.800 --> 23:38.833 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% an important ritual to keeping the elephant's skin 23:38.833 --> 23:41.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:55% malleable and to lower its body temperature. 23:41.433 --> 23:43.700 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:55% Elephants don't sweat. 23:43.700 --> 23:47.666 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 23:47.666 --> 23:48.933 align:start position:40% line:84.67% size:15% Whup! 23:48.933 --> 23:50.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 23:50.266 --> 23:54.533 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% Visiting the Golden Triangle is like stepping back in time 23:54.533 --> 23:57.533 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:50% to a vanishing world of rice paddies... 23:57.533 --> 23:59.566 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:35% hill tribes... 23:59.566 --> 24:01.733 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:30% elephants... 24:01.733 --> 24:03.933 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% and monks on horseback. 24:04.800 --> 24:06.566 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:70% It's more than an adventure. 24:06.566 --> 24:08.433 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:67.5% It's a meeting of cultures, 24:08.433 --> 24:11.033 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:47.5% a chance to connect with a people 24:11.033 --> 24:15.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:67.5% and a way of life that have survived for thousands of years. 24:15.466 --> 24:19.433 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:60% It's also an opportunity in ways great and small 24:19.433 --> 24:23.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:65% to help the people and the animals of Thailand survive. 24:25.666 --> 24:27.300 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:35% I think Tawan and I have bonded here, 24:27.300 --> 24:29.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:70% so if you don't mind, we're going to go for a little walk. 24:29.633 --> 24:31.333 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:35% I don't know who's walking whom, 24:31.333 --> 24:32.966 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:47.5% but reporting from the Golden Triangle, 24:32.966 --> 24:35.766 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5% I'm Rudy Maxa. Sawadee khrap. 24:38.200 --> 24:40.700 align:start position:10% line:10% size:57.5% (woman) For information on the places 24:40.700 --> 24:42.766 align:start position:10% line:10% size:80% featured in "Rudy Maxa's World," 24:42.766 --> 24:45.600 align:start position:10% line:10% size:55% along with other savvy traveling tips, visit... 24:50.266 --> 24:53.366 align:start position:10% line:10% size:32.5% To order DVDs 24:53.366 --> 24:54.966 align:start position:10% line:10% size:55% of "Rudy Maxa's World" 24:54.966 --> 24:57.833 align:start position:10% line:10% size:60% or the CD of world music from the series, 24:57.833 --> 24:59.600 align:start position:10% line:10% size:40% call or visit... 25:06.633 --> 25:16.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 25:23.700 --> 25:23.733 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 25:33.366 --> 25:35.366 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:52.5% CC--Armour Captioning & Twin Cities Public Television 25:35.366 --> 25:37.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:2.5% ♪ ♪ 25:37.200 --> 25:40.566 align:start position:10% line:10% size:50% "Rudy Maxa's World," proudly sponsored by 25:40.566 --> 25:43.833 align:start position:10% line:10% size:80% The Leading Hotels of the World. 25:43.833 --> 25:47.500 align:start position:10% line:10% size:42.5% Quests for travel begin at LHW.com, 25:47.500 --> 25:50.533 align:start position:10% line:10% size:52.5% where you'll discover a collection 25:50.533 --> 25:54.200 align:start position:10% line:10% size:67.5% of nearly 450 unique hotels worldwide, 25:57.000 --> 25:59.000 align:start position:10% line:10% size:32.5% Including the distinctive family 25:59.000 --> 26:02.000 align:start position:10% line:10% size:57.5% of Taj hotels, resorts, and palaces. 26:04.466 --> 26:06.400 align:start position:10% line:10% size:70% Every quest has a beginning, 26:06.400 --> 26:09.366 align:start position:10% line:10% size:45% online at LHW.com. 26:09.366 --> 26:13.433 align:start position:10% line:10% size:67.5% Additional funding for Rudy Maxa's World provided by 26:13.433 --> 26:15.233 align:start position:10% line:10% size:27.5% Medjet.com, 26:15.233 --> 26:18.766 align:start position:10% line:10% size:72.5% medical evacuation membership protection for travelers. 26:18.766 --> 26:21.366 align:start position:10% line:10% size:60% Take trips, not chances. 26:21.366 --> 26:25.033 align:start position:10% line:10% size:22.5% And by... 26:25.033 --> 26:28.800 align:start position:10% line:10% size:75% Yokoso! Or "Welcome to Japan." 26:28.800 --> 26:33.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:75% And by Delta--serving hundreds of destinations worldwide. 26:33.300 --> 26:35.300 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:27.5% Information to plan your next trip 26:35.300 --> 26:37.433 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:57.5% available at delta.com. 26:39.233 --> 26:41.366 align:start position:10% line:84.67% size:50% [orchestral fanfare]