Travel Exclusive Asia (TEA), a Bangkok-based DMC which operates in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam, has now stretched its hands into Indonesia in partnership with Peter Nielsen and Ni Made Ayu Triska, both of whom possess over a decade of destination management experience with a base in Bali.
Nielsen, founder and managing director of TEA Indonesia, previously owned Stjernegaard Reijser, a leading tour operator in Denmark with its own DMC in Bali that managed operations across Indonesia. The company was sold in 2018, but Nielsen remains active in the industry and works with Triska to provide DMC services in Indonesia from their office in Sanur.
In their quest of expansion, Nielsen and Triska sought a partner that would share their values and ambitions.
“We found a perfect match in TEA. After our initial meeting with André Van der Marck (founder and CEO of TEA) and Yves Van Kerrebroeck (partner and managing director TEA Indochina), we were convinced that TEA was the right partner for us, as we share a common vision for the future of DMC operations,” Nielsen told TTG Asia.
According to van der Marc, TEA enjoyed a prosperous year in 2024 and has been experiencing significant growth across both business events and leisure tourism.
“We are confident in continuing this momentum. With this new venture, TEA will strengthen its position as a trusted partner for delivering extraordinary travel experiences across South-East Asia,” said van der Marc.
Nielsen said Indonesia has “major potential, particularly with Bali as a standout destination in South-east Asia”.
“When travellers combine Bali with other Indonesian islands, they can create a holiday experience like no other. Given this potential and diversity, we believe now is the perfect time for TEA to expand into Indonesia. Our goal is to provide travellers with unforgettable experiences no matter what they are looking for,” said Nielsen.
Nielsen believes that Indonesia holds great appeal to both leisure and corporate clients.
When asked how TEA Indonesia would compete against other Indonesian DMCs, Nielson pointed to the team’s rich experience in tour operations.
“We understand the intense competition in the industry and what it takes to convince customers and close a sale. Travel agents and tour operators are not only competing with each other, but also with OTAs and booking engines where customers constantly compare prices. To stand out, we must offer something of extra value to our customers.
“We believe that competing on quality products, creativity, and innovative trip combinations is key. Our goal is to provide exceptional service standards.”
He also highlighted TEA Indonesia’s use of full-time guides, instead of freelance ones. “Our office staff also possess extensive knowledge and are trained to efficiently solve any issues that may arise. Their decision-making skills are top-notch, ensuring fast and effective solutions,” he said.
TEA Indonesia will aim for organic growth in the initial two to three years, allowing the company to focus on existing customers while delivering high quality products and services.
“We expect to increase revenue by three to four folds over the next three years. However, it is important to say that volume is not our goal. We intend to be here for many years, so we have time to develop the business, secure our processes, and maintain high standards.”
