
Ken Yao
Based in Australia & New Zealand
English & Mandarin
Ken Yao
Ask me about
My Story
Curated journeys are designed for travelers seeking refined, well considered experiences across Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific, with particular depth in destinations such as Thailand, Singapore, Australia, and Fiji.
My background in architecture shapes how I approach travel planning, with strong attention to structure, flow, and detail. Hotels, touring, cruising, and logistics are thoughtfully aligned so each journey feels seamless and cohesive rather than transactional.
I specialize in honeymoons, bucket list travel, cruises, and complex itineraries that benefit from expert oversight, clear direction, and a highly personalized planning process.
Travel Style
My travel style is discreet, curated, and experience-led, with a focus on journeys where access, quality, and thoughtful planning elevate the overall experience.
I work with a trusted network of hotel, tour, and cruise partners to design journeys that feel intentional and polished, often with access to preferred partner privileges and elevated touches throughout.
This service is best suited to travelers who value expertise, discretion, and a refined planning process, and who are ready to invest in a well-considered travel experience.
Reviews (16)
Lee K.
14 days ago
Ken was amazing. He was professional throughout the entire booking process and proactively kept us updated when a cheaper rate became available for the same room.
We were welcomed to our room with tea, snacks, and a bottle of bubbles, which was a lovely and thoughtful gesture organised by a top-tier agent.
I cannot recommend him enough and have already referred him to many of our friends.
Jin L.
3 months ago
Ken is a darling to work with as my travel advisor, and is a key asset to FORA, for his mastery of the craft of bespoke travel planning is absolutely meticulous, down to the fact that he immediately understands what I need via a simple text without me needing to lift a finger.
As it stands, our relationship over the past few months working together has spanned over more than 20 reservations. More importantly, we have more than 20 future bookings for the immediate future, and I trust him with his recommendations with more to come. I wished I’d known him and availed of his services earlier!
This continued patronage stems from Ken’s relentless pursuit of only the best experience he can deliver to the guest. And that is his promise, and ultimate hallmark of every interaction. It starts from the designing of the experience, booking of the experience, delivery of the experience to the conclusion of the experience. Every time a solid 10 out of 10. I’d give 15 out of 10 if I could!
As a hospitality professional, service and the protocol of service is very core to me, and having being able to meet, and exceed my expectations time and time again, deserves more than just hugs and praises, but more importantly, continued patronage in the immediate and far future!
Gareth M.
4 months ago
Ken was very communicative and timely with arranging our accommodation and ensuring we had all the information required to make our check-in seamless. He went the extra mile for us!
Mark L.
5 months ago
Clear and concise.
Caroline L.
5 months ago
This is the third trip I’ve booked with Ken. Love the early check-in - we were tired after arriving in Milan by train from Verona pretty early in the day and the rooms were already ready by the time we got there thanks to Ken.
Ken also included a special touch by preparing a bottle of bubbles and a personalised letter waiting for us in the room to celebrate our European girls trip :)
Lee K.
14 days ago
Ken was amazing. He was professional throughout the entire booking process and proactively kept us updated when a cheaper rate became available for the same room.
We were welcomed to our room with tea, snacks, and a bottle of bubbles, which was a lovely and thoughtful gesture organised by a top-tier agent.
I cannot recommend him enough and have already referred him to many of our friends.
Jin L.
3 months ago
Ken is a darling to work with as my travel advisor, and is a key asset to FORA, for his mastery of the craft of bespoke travel planning is absolutely meticulous, down to the fact that he immediately understands what I need via a simple text without me needing to lift a finger.
As it stands, our relationship over the past few months working together has spanned over more than 20 reservations. More importantly, we have more than 20 future bookings for the immediate future, and I trust him with his recommendations with more to come. I wished I’d known him and availed of his services earlier!
This continued patronage stems from Ken’s relentless pursuit of only the best experience he can deliver to the guest. And that is his promise, and ultimate hallmark of every interaction. It starts from the designing of the experience, booking of the experience, delivery of the experience to the conclusion of the experience. Every time a solid 10 out of 10. I’d give 15 out of 10 if I could!
As a hospitality professional, service and the protocol of service is very core to me, and having being able to meet, and exceed my expectations time and time again, deserves more than just hugs and praises, but more importantly, continued patronage in the immediate and far future!
Gareth M.
4 months ago
Ken was very communicative and timely with arranging our accommodation and ensuring we had all the information required to make our check-in seamless. He went the extra mile for us!
Mark L.
5 months ago
Clear and concise.
Travel ideas (6)

Why I Skipped an Overnight Cruise in Halong Bay
Most travelers experience Halong Bay via an overnight cruise. I almost did the same, but instead we stayed at InterContinental Halong Bay and paired it with a day cruise and it completely changed my perspective.

Why I Skipped an Overnight Cruise in Halong Bay
Most travelers experience Halong Bay via an overnight cruise. I almost did the same, but instead we stayed at InterContinental Halong Bay and paired it with a day cruise and it completely changed my perspective.

The Best Hotel in Busan, South Korea? Exploring the Refined Luxury of Park Hyatt
Park Hyatt Busan exceeded expectations in every way, from its elegant suites overlooking Gwangan Bridge to its exceptional dining experiences and polished service. It’s a property that perfectly balances sophistication with a genuine sense of place, offering a refined coastal escape that feels uniquely Busan.

The Best Hotel in Busan, South Korea? Exploring the Refined Luxury of Park Hyatt
Park Hyatt Busan exceeded expectations in every way, from its elegant suites overlooking Gwangan Bridge to its exceptional dining experiences and polished service. It’s a property that perfectly balances sophistication with a genuine sense of place, offering a refined coastal escape that feels uniquely Busan.

Mandarin Oriental Elegance: Shanghai from the Riverfront
Shanghai has always fascinated me with its mix of history and modernity, where centuries-old culture meets futuristic architecture. Staying at Mandarin Oriental Pudong through the Mandarin Oriental Fan Club allowed me to experience the city from a front-row seat, with the Huangpu River and Oriental Pearl Tower just steps away. Each morning brought the skyline to life, and each evening, the city lights shimmered like a living painting. This stay reminded me of why Shanghai is a destination worth exploring slowly, with moments of discovery around every corner.

Mandarin Oriental Elegance: Shanghai from the Riverfront
Shanghai has always fascinated me with its mix of history and modernity, where centuries-old culture meets futuristic architecture. Staying at Mandarin Oriental Pudong through the Mandarin Oriental Fan Club allowed me to experience the city from a front-row seat, with the Huangpu River and Oriental Pearl Tower just steps away. Each morning brought the skyline to life, and each evening, the city lights shimmered like a living painting. This stay reminded me of why Shanghai is a destination worth exploring slowly, with moments of discovery around every corner.

Fiji Dreaming: A Beachfront Stay in a Private Bure
Fiji is a place I find myself returning to—it’s where I can truly slow down and reset. There’s something special about the warmth of the people, the calm of the water, and the simplicity of days spent barefoot by the beach. Staying in a beachfront bure felt both grounding and indulgent—and reminded me of why I keep coming back.

Fiji Dreaming: A Beachfront Stay in a Private Bure
Fiji is a place I find myself returning to—it’s where I can truly slow down and reset. There’s something special about the warmth of the people, the calm of the water, and the simplicity of days spent barefoot by the beach. Staying in a beachfront bure felt both grounding and indulgent—and reminded me of why I keep coming back.

Singapore: A Seamless Blend of Tradition and Tomorrow
Celebrating Singapore’s unique fusion of rich heritage and modern innovation. Through carefully selected experiences and local favorites, it invites travelers to explore the city’s timeless traditions alongside its vibrant, forward-looking spirit. Whether wandering the historic streets or enjoying contemporary delights, this is Singapore as both lived and loved.

Singapore: A Seamless Blend of Tradition and Tomorrow
Celebrating Singapore’s unique fusion of rich heritage and modern innovation. Through carefully selected experiences and local favorites, it invites travelers to explore the city’s timeless traditions alongside its vibrant, forward-looking spirit. Whether wandering the historic streets or enjoying contemporary delights, this is Singapore as both lived and loved.

A Long Weekend Getaway in Adelaide: Culture, Indulgence & City Charm
Adelaide is an underrated gem, perfect for a short escape filled with great food, lush green spaces and world-class wine. Whether you're wandering through the stunning Adelaide Botanic Garden or experiencing the magic of The Garden of Unearthly Delights during festival season, this charming city has something for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of a long weekend in Adelaide.

A Long Weekend Getaway in Adelaide: Culture, Indulgence & City Charm
Adelaide is an underrated gem, perfect for a short escape filled with great food, lush green spaces and world-class wine. Whether you're wandering through the stunning Adelaide Botanic Garden or experiencing the magic of The Garden of Unearthly Delights during festival season, this charming city has something for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of a long weekend in Adelaide.

Why I Skipped an Overnight Cruise in Halong Bay
Most travelers experience Halong Bay via an overnight cruise. I almost did the same, but instead we stayed at InterContinental Halong Bay and paired it with a day cruise and it completely changed my perspective.

Why I Skipped an Overnight Cruise in Halong Bay
Most travelers experience Halong Bay via an overnight cruise. I almost did the same, but instead we stayed at InterContinental Halong Bay and paired it with a day cruise and it completely changed my perspective.

The Best Hotel in Busan, South Korea? Exploring the Refined Luxury of Park Hyatt
Park Hyatt Busan exceeded expectations in every way, from its elegant suites overlooking Gwangan Bridge to its exceptional dining experiences and polished service. It’s a property that perfectly balances sophistication with a genuine sense of place, offering a refined coastal escape that feels uniquely Busan.

The Best Hotel in Busan, South Korea? Exploring the Refined Luxury of Park Hyatt
Park Hyatt Busan exceeded expectations in every way, from its elegant suites overlooking Gwangan Bridge to its exceptional dining experiences and polished service. It’s a property that perfectly balances sophistication with a genuine sense of place, offering a refined coastal escape that feels uniquely Busan.

Mandarin Oriental Elegance: Shanghai from the Riverfront
Shanghai has always fascinated me with its mix of history and modernity, where centuries-old culture meets futuristic architecture. Staying at Mandarin Oriental Pudong through the Mandarin Oriental Fan Club allowed me to experience the city from a front-row seat, with the Huangpu River and Oriental Pearl Tower just steps away. Each morning brought the skyline to life, and each evening, the city lights shimmered like a living painting. This stay reminded me of why Shanghai is a destination worth exploring slowly, with moments of discovery around every corner.

Mandarin Oriental Elegance: Shanghai from the Riverfront
Shanghai has always fascinated me with its mix of history and modernity, where centuries-old culture meets futuristic architecture. Staying at Mandarin Oriental Pudong through the Mandarin Oriental Fan Club allowed me to experience the city from a front-row seat, with the Huangpu River and Oriental Pearl Tower just steps away. Each morning brought the skyline to life, and each evening, the city lights shimmered like a living painting. This stay reminded me of why Shanghai is a destination worth exploring slowly, with moments of discovery around every corner.
Travel photos





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