Updated: May 2026
Meet Our Team of North Bali Experts
The quality of your journey is a direct reflection of the people who craft it. At Northbalitravel Co., our team is our greatest asset. We are a collective of seasoned hospitality professionals, local culture experts, and logistical wizards, united by a passion for North Bali and a commitment to service excellence. Each member brings a unique set of skills and a deep network of connections, ensuring your experience is not just a vacation, but a seamless and enriching exploration. We are proud to be part of the Juara Holding Group, a name synonymous with quality and integrity in Indonesia.
Budi Santoso
Founder & Managing Director
Credentials: MBA in Hospitality Management, Cornell University; 20+ years in Indonesian luxury hotel development with groups like Aman and Alila.
Bio: Budi is the visionary behind Northbalitravel Co. and a key figure within the Juara Holding Group. Having spent two decades developing some of Indonesia’s most iconic luxury properties, he saw a need for a travel specialist that could offer the same level of personalized service and attention to detail outside the confines of a resort. Budi’s deep industry connections and uncompromising standards are the bedrock of our company. He personally oversees our partner selection process, ensuring every element of our itineraries meets the ‘Juara Standard’.
Ayu Lestari
Head of Travel Operations & Lead Specialist
Credentials: Certified Tour Professional (CTP) from ASITA (Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies); Certified Professional Guide (HPI); 15 years as a luxury travel curator.
Bio: Born and raised in Singaraja, the former capital of Bali, Ayu possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of North Bali’s culture, history, and hidden gems. Her expertise is the engine of our itinerary design. Ayu has personally trekked every waterfall trail we recommend, dined at every restaurant, and built lasting relationships with the local guides and community leaders who bring our experiences to life. She is fluent in Balinese, Indonesian, English, and Dutch, allowing her to bridge cultural gaps and provide our clients with unparalleled local insights.
Gede Wirawan
Marine & Conservation Specialist
Credentials: PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer (MSDT); Degree in Marine Biology, Udayana University; 10+ years guiding expeditions in West Bali National Park.
Bio: Gede is our guardian of the blue. His passion lies in the vibrant underwater world of Menjangan Island and the protected marine areas of North Bali. He not only leads our private diving and snorkeling excursions but also manages our relationships with conservation partners like The Nature Conservancy Indonesia. Gede ensures all our marine activities are conducted responsibly, adhering to the highest standards of eco-tourism. He can identify hundreds of species of coral and fish and is an expert at finding the best, most secluded spots away from the crowds.
Sofia Wijaya
Client Relations & Concierge Manager
Credentials: B.A. in International Relations; Former Guest Relations Manager at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve; Certified by The International Butler Academy.
Bio: Sofia is the master of details and the primary point of contact for our clients. Her background in world-class luxury hospitality means she anticipates needs before they arise. From arranging surprise anniversary dinners on a secluded beach to handling complex dietary requirements and last-minute flight changes, Sofia ensures a flawless and stress-free experience from the moment of inquiry until our clients are safely on their way home. Her dedication to personalized service is what transforms a great trip into an unforgettable one.
Eka Putra
Logistics & Transport Coordinator
Credentials: Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD); 12 years managing luxury vehicle fleets and VIP airport services at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS).
Bio: The seamless flow of our journeys is a testament to Eka’s meticulous planning. He manages our entire ground and air transportation network, from our fleet of modern, GPS-tracked luxury vehicles to private helicopter charters. Eka works closely with airport authorities and AirNav Indonesia to ensure smooth, expedited arrivals and departures. He is obsessed with safety and punctuality, conducting rigorous vehicle inspections and driver training programs that exceed government regulations.
Our collective expertise is at your service. To begin crafting your journey with us, please contact our specialists today.
Continue exploring Northbalitravel Co.:
Our Northbalitravel Co. Service ·
Meet Our Team ·
Editorial Standards ·
Methodology ·
Sustainability ·
Safety & Compliance
