Stephan Roemer: «I Love German Sports Cars»
A third of his job is shaped by the unexpected, and he thrives on it. Stephan Roemer, CEO of tour operator Tourasia, shares what fuels his passion and reveals the best investment he’s ever made.
Every week, interesting personalities from the world of finance and beyond share their personal preferences on finews.privé.
What do you do first in the morning?
45 minutes of sport at home, early in the morning before sunrise.
What is the best thing about your job?
The exchange with other people and cultures. Developing an understanding of other ways of thinking and finding solutions.
A moment that changed your life?
When I was 20 years old, I was offered an internship in the Philippines. The first time abroad, the first time on a big plane.
What cars do you drive? Which is your favorite?
I love German sports cars and own 3 of them.
What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?
It pays to work hard. Dare to be self-employed if you are prepared to go the extra mile.
What are you particularly proud of?
I was able to achieve financial independence without outside support and now own my own home.
What was your biggest defeat?
I had invested in a business before the COVID situation and lost practically everything. I had to start all over again after the pandemic and no longer had enough financial resources to do it on my own.
What is your favorite wine?
I am a lover of Pinot wines, everything that is «old world». Switzerland, France, Germany, and Austria.
What projects are you currently working on?
Numerous. A real estate project in the Philippines, an organic farming project in Thailand, and the establishment of two other companies in Asia. I also support tourism students in Switzerland and Asia as a mentor.
What is most important to you at the moment?
The life balance. I work an average of 12 hours a day and therefore enjoy my free time all the more with sport, family and friends, and wine and dine.
What would be the biggest surprise for someone who had to do your job for a day?
My job has new surprises every day, which can range from disaster management (natural events affecting tourism, medical emergencies, etc.) to personal appraisals and complicated negotiations. About 2/3 can be planned, 1/3 is a surprise.
What is your personal drive?
I have the best job. I look forward to going to work every morning.
What are you afraid of?
I am quite fearless and think with Christian values. If something were to suddenly happen to me or someone close to me.
Your favorite watch brand?
I’m very Swiss, I really like Rolex and IWC.
What do your employees most value about you?
I think I’m very predictable. You can work hard with me, but you can also party sometimes.
Your best investment?
Firstly, becoming self-employed and secondly, buying my own home.
Stephan Roemer is the founder, CEO, and majority shareholder of Asia specialist Tourasia and co-owner of DMC DTH Travel (formerly Diethelm Travel) in Bangkok. He has been shaping high-quality Asian tourism in Europe and Asia for over 30 years. He also sits on several boards of directors.
