Letter from Dan: Looking Back on a Record-Breaking Year

The expansion and reach of Smiling Albino are certainly cause for celebration.

However, let’s take a moment to delve into our core mission. As we rewind the clock to the past year, we’ve achieved a multitude of milestones.
We’ve reignited relationships with many of our beloved past guests, inspiring them to embark on fresh adventures alongside us. Likewise, we’ve extended a warm welcome to esteemed former team members who have chosen to return to our fold, bolstering our capabilities and expertise.
We’ve encouraged our guests to embark on journeys to destinations that are further off the well-trodden path. From the tranquil landscapes of Nan, Phrae, and Phayao in Thailand, to the rugged allure of Ha Giang and Dong Van in Vietnam, and the captivating sights of Battambang in Cambodia – these are the places we’ve explored. While these locales, among others, may be familiar to backpackers, they remain hidden treasures for luxury travelers seeking impeccable logistics, meticulous itineraries, and a high standard of comfort. We’ve adeptly used our approach to create these experiences, ensuring they are not just enjoyable but also deeply inspiring for all involved.

I’ve had the honor of speaking at a multitude of events throughout the year, engaging with the likes of the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, local Rotary clubs, and diverse tourism conferences. These platforms have provided a delightful stage for me to regale audiences with captivating tales of our adventures. Additionally, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to host another season of my show, Edible Story Two – my first English language show. The charm of these gatherings and documentary endeavors lies in their capacity to swing open doors and enrich our regional expertise. We remain dedicated to harnessing these sources of inspiration, knowledge, and valuable connections to craft distinctive experiences for our well loved Smiling Albino guests, consistently attaining the outcomes we ardently pursue.

As we stride into 2024, we are acutely aware that this year will present its fair share of opportunities and challenges. While we keep a watchful eye on measurable metrics, our fundamental mission remains unwavering. We are committed to earning your trust and guiding you on remarkable adventures, steadfast in our pursuit of becoming the world’s most exceptional travel company and spreading joy to every corner of the globe.

With great anticipation for the adventures that await,

Daniel Fraser
Chief Mahout, Smiling Albino

PS. If you’re interested, two of my favorite Edible Story Thailand episodes are A Vintage Thai Dessert: Khao Kraya Koo, and A Unique Northern Thai Dish: Laab Muang.