I will be visiting Thailand in December and was wondering if anyone could recommend an elephant sanctuary centre? I want to make sure I visit a place where the elephants are not just used as props but are actually taken care of. 
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If you are in the north, Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Mai is one of the most well-known ones - you definitely don’t want to go anywhere that allows elephant rides.
I have also heard that Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a great one, if you are in the south! Make sure it is the sanctuary in Paklok, as some have similar names and are not affiliated
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Elephant sanctuaries can be a bit tough in Thailand. When I went, I avoided them altogether, though, like @bagelabroad said, there are some good ones in Chiang Mai. I would highly recommend doing as much research as possible before you go. There are vendors all over Thailand that are selling “ethical” tours of elephant sanctuaries right next to one where you can ride the elephants, just be careful! 
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Thai Elephant Care Center, 101, Mae Raem, Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180, Thailand.
This is the real deal. Way less touristy. They love the elephants there and it’s a unique and genuine experience.
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