I spent 6 days working with elephants at the Thai Elephant Conservation Center south of Lampang (different form the one in this video). It was an incredible experience. Next time you visit Thailand, try volunteering for an extended period of time at one of the centers. I really recommend the Thai Elephant Conservation Center. Good amenities in the lodge area and lots of fun people. You bathe the elephants in the morning and afternoon, take a jungle excursion trip for one night, and learn local songs and rituals related to elephants. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life!