As Smiling Albino, the acclaimed luxury travel firm based in Bangkok, marks its 25th anniversary, it reflects on the profound impact it has had on individuals beyond just travel arrangements. Its longstanding location near Assumption University’s Hua Mak campus, often referred to as ABAC, has organically fostered a connection between students, academic staff, and the tourism sector.

This bridge-building ethos resonates with the beginnings of the founder, Daniel Fraser, who first arrived in Thailand in 1995. His journey began with a teaching opportunity at the Royal Palace school, a role characterized by dedication rather than leisure. This foundational experience shaped his vision for a travel company focused on understanding and connecting with people.

Smiling Albino’s engagement with Assumption University extends beyond physical proximity; it has transformed into a dynamic link between students’ academic endeavors and real-world tourism practices. Many students, including standout individual Thomas Phu Tran, have thrived due to this relationship, gaining valuable industry experience through internships and competitions.

Thomas, a graduate from the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, exemplifies the outcomes of this partnership. After spending three and a half formative years with Smiling Albino, he transitioned into a regional leadership role at FutureLog, applying the foundational skills he acquired at the travel company.

Thomas emphasized that every client at Smiling Albino is treated as unique, noting their commitment to making seemingly impossible requests possible, such as arranging a helicopter landing on a mountain.

With 25 years of crafting memorable travel experiences, Smiling Albino continues to uphold its values of fairness, long-lasting partnerships, and treating all collaborators as part of a larger family, emphasizing that travel entails more than mere logistics—it is about creating enduring memories.