Lauren Van Keulen
She/Her
Based in Ojai, CA
Speaks French & Spanish
Lauren Van Keulen
Ask me about
My Story
Passionate travel advisor with 20+ years in hospitality, global connections, and digital marketing expertise, crafting bespoke journeys for Fora's discerning travelers.
My Travel Style
My travel style is a versatile spectrum that spans from the rugged charm of budget backpacking through Vietnam to the refined elegance of exploring Greece with a luxurious touch. Whatever the desire of your heart, I am here to curate an experience that aligns perfectly with your preferences. Having lived in both Hong Kong and Singapore, I possess a unique and insightful perspective into the world of Southeast Asian travel, allowing me to unlock hidden gems and tailor journeys that encapsulate the region's rich cultural tapestry.
Drawing from my tenure at prestigious luxury hotels like the Malibu Beach Inn and Ojai Valley Inn, I possess an intimate understanding of the expectations and desires of high-end clientele when it comes to choosing a destination. Whether it's a solitary traveler seeking an immersive personal experience or a group embarking on a celebratory expedition, my expertise knows no bounds. I am dedicated to continually expanding my network of suppliers and enhancing my knowledge of local tours and operators through biannual travel, ensuring that each itinerary I create is infused with the latest insights and opportunities for an unparalleled travel experience.
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My reviews (22)
Linda H.
15 days ago
She was terrific. Fantastic experience, She was incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and made planning our trip completely stress free. We had a few change requests and she had them done right away. Highly recommend her!
Christina C.
5 months ago
Lauren was absolutely fantastic to work with! From start to finish, she was incredibly knowledgeable and detail-oriented. She helped plan every aspect of our trip—from researching the best hotels to recommending amazing restaurants and activities. Everything ran so smoothly: check-in times, rental car arrangements, and even our transition to another hotel later in the trip were timed perfectly. Lauren was also professional, patient, and always willing to answer my many questions with care and clarity. I felt truly supported and well-prepared every step of the way. I can’t wait to plan my next trip with her!
Natalie W.
5 months ago
We had an incredible experience working with Lauren from Fora! From the moment we started planning our trip to Portugal, she was attentive, responsive, and incredibly patient with all of our questions and preferences. Her professionalism and deep knowledge of the area helped us feel confident every step of the way. She went above and beyond to make sure our itinerary was seamless and stress-free, and her recommendations were perfect.
Livia M.
5 months ago
This was our first time using a travel agent and it will absolutely not be our last. Lauren delivered an extraordinary experience, with insights into every detail of our trip and guidance that reflect her supernatural ability to know what it was that we wanted before we even realized it. My favorite thing about her recommendations was that she was able to offer tiers of options—all excellent!—that allowed for us to mix and match how and where we wanted to spend in order to maximize our budget and experience. Her insight and experience made making suggestions natural, making us feel that we were in good hands from our first conversation (and even during our trip when we reached out with a question—her response was timely and thorough, which was amazing!). I cannot recommend Lauren as a travel agent enough and look forward to the next time that we have an opportunity to tap her incredible skill and wisdom for another magical vacation!
Clark T.
5 months ago
Anything I needed she was quick to make it happen. She was great about setting up reservations and changing the tee times as much as she did for us. Awesome trip was made even more awesome, by how easy everything was.
Linda H.
15 days ago
She was terrific. Fantastic experience, She was incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and made planning our trip completely stress free. We had a few change requests and she had them done right away. Highly recommend her!
Christina C.
5 months ago
Lauren was absolutely fantastic to work with! From start to finish, she was incredibly knowledgeable and detail-oriented. She helped plan every aspect of our trip—from researching the best hotels to recommending amazing restaurants and activities. Everything ran so smoothly: check-in times, rental car arrangements, and even our transition to another hotel later in the trip were timed perfectly. Lauren was also professional, patient, and always willing to answer my many questions with care and clarity. I felt truly supported and well-prepared every step of the way. I can’t wait to plan my next trip with her!
Natalie W.
5 months ago
We had an incredible experience working with Lauren from Fora! From the moment we started planning our trip to Portugal, she was attentive, responsive, and incredibly patient with all of our questions and preferences. Her professionalism and deep knowledge of the area helped us feel confident every step of the way. She went above and beyond to make sure our itinerary was seamless and stress-free, and her recommendations were perfect.
Livia M.
5 months ago
This was our first time using a travel agent and it will absolutely not be our last. Lauren delivered an extraordinary experience, with insights into every detail of our trip and guidance that reflect her supernatural ability to know what it was that we wanted before we even realized it. My favorite thing about her recommendations was that she was able to offer tiers of options—all excellent!—that allowed for us to mix and match how and where we wanted to spend in order to maximize our budget and experience. Her insight and experience made making suggestions natural, making us feel that we were in good hands from our first conversation (and even during our trip when we reached out with a question—her response was timely and thorough, which was amazing!). I cannot recommend Lauren as a travel agent enough and look forward to the next time that we have an opportunity to tap her incredible skill and wisdom for another magical vacation!
My travel ideas (5)
Leisure Stay at Carmel Valley Ranch in Northern California
Carmel Valley Ranch is unique due to its blend of luxury, natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel like they're part of something truly special. Nestled in the picturesque Carmel Valley, this resort offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. What truly sets it apart is its emphasis on creating memorable experiences, whether it's through its farm-to-table dining, rejuvenating spa treatments or the serene beauty of its expansive grounds. For me, Carmel Valley Ranch is not just a destination — it's a retreat where every moment is designed to nourish the soul and inspire a deeper connection with nature.
Leisure Stay at Carmel Valley Ranch in Northern California
Carmel Valley Ranch is unique due to its blend of luxury, natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel like they're part of something truly special. Nestled in the picturesque Carmel Valley, this resort offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. What truly sets it apart is its emphasis on creating memorable experiences, whether it's through its farm-to-table dining, rejuvenating spa treatments or the serene beauty of its expansive grounds. For me, Carmel Valley Ranch is not just a destination — it's a retreat where every moment is designed to nourish the soul and inspire a deeper connection with nature.
Blue Lagoon Croatia
The Blue Lagoon in Croatia offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquil waters, perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Its proximity to historic cities like Split and Trogir makes it an accessible yet secluded getaway, ensuring my clients experience both culture and serenity. I believe my clients will be captivated by the Blue Lagoon's crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an unforgettable addition to their travel itinerary.
Blue Lagoon Croatia
The Blue Lagoon in Croatia offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquil waters, perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Its proximity to historic cities like Split and Trogir makes it an accessible yet secluded getaway, ensuring my clients experience both culture and serenity. I believe my clients will be captivated by the Blue Lagoon's crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an unforgettable addition to their travel itinerary.
Sustainable Tourism in Rwanda
Rwanda holds a special place in my heart for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and extraordinary wildlife. Known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," Rwanda offers an unparalleled ecotourism experience that is both immersive and sustainable. Whether you're trekking through lush forests to encounter mountain gorillas or exploring the vast savannas of Akagera National Park, every moment in Rwanda is a testament to nature's splendor and resilience. This guide aims to showcase the best of Rwanda's ecotourism, ensuring your visit is both memorable and respectful to the environment.
Sustainable Tourism in Rwanda
Rwanda holds a special place in my heart for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and extraordinary wildlife. Known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," Rwanda offers an unparalleled ecotourism experience that is both immersive and sustainable. Whether you're trekking through lush forests to encounter mountain gorillas or exploring the vast savannas of Akagera National Park, every moment in Rwanda is a testament to nature's splendor and resilience. This guide aims to showcase the best of Rwanda's ecotourism, ensuring your visit is both memorable and respectful to the environment.
Two Weeks in Vietnam
Vietnam holds a special allure as an ideal destination due to its captivating blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and exquisite cuisine. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, and from the historic charms of Hoi An to the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, the country offers a diverse range of experiences. Vietnam's deep cultural roots, combined with its warm hospitality, make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in a place where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist.
Two Weeks in Vietnam
Vietnam holds a special allure as an ideal destination due to its captivating blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and exquisite cuisine. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Halong Bay, and from the historic charms of Hoi An to the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, the country offers a diverse range of experiences. Vietnam's deep cultural roots, combined with its warm hospitality, make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in a place where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist.
5 Days in Paris: 2024 Olympics Edition
Visiting Paris for the 2024 Olympics offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the convergence of athletic excellence and cultural richness in one of the world's most iconic cities. Beyond the thrill of Olympic competition, Paris boasts a wealth of renowned landmarks, from the majestic Eiffel Tower to the historic Louvre Museum, providing endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Additionally, the city's renowned culinary scene, featuring delectable pastries, gourmet cuisine, and charming bistros, ensures that visitors will savor every moment of their Olympic experience both on and off the field.
5 Days in Paris: 2024 Olympics Edition
Visiting Paris for the 2024 Olympics offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the convergence of athletic excellence and cultural richness in one of the world's most iconic cities. Beyond the thrill of Olympic competition, Paris boasts a wealth of renowned landmarks, from the majestic Eiffel Tower to the historic Louvre Museum, providing endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Additionally, the city's renowned culinary scene, featuring delectable pastries, gourmet cuisine, and charming bistros, ensures that visitors will savor every moment of their Olympic experience both on and off the field.
Leisure Stay at Carmel Valley Ranch in Northern California
Carmel Valley Ranch is unique due to its blend of luxury, natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel like they're part of something truly special. Nestled in the picturesque Carmel Valley, this resort offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. What truly sets it apart is its emphasis on creating memorable experiences, whether it's through its farm-to-table dining, rejuvenating spa treatments or the serene beauty of its expansive grounds. For me, Carmel Valley Ranch is not just a destination — it's a retreat where every moment is designed to nourish the soul and inspire a deeper connection with nature.
Leisure Stay at Carmel Valley Ranch in Northern California
Carmel Valley Ranch is unique due to its blend of luxury, natural beauty and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every guest feel like they're part of something truly special. Nestled in the picturesque Carmel Valley, this resort offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. What truly sets it apart is its emphasis on creating memorable experiences, whether it's through its farm-to-table dining, rejuvenating spa treatments or the serene beauty of its expansive grounds. For me, Carmel Valley Ranch is not just a destination — it's a retreat where every moment is designed to nourish the soul and inspire a deeper connection with nature.
Blue Lagoon Croatia
The Blue Lagoon in Croatia offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquil waters, perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Its proximity to historic cities like Split and Trogir makes it an accessible yet secluded getaway, ensuring my clients experience both culture and serenity. I believe my clients will be captivated by the Blue Lagoon's crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an unforgettable addition to their travel itinerary.
Blue Lagoon Croatia
The Blue Lagoon in Croatia offers a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquil waters, perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Its proximity to historic cities like Split and Trogir makes it an accessible yet secluded getaway, ensuring my clients experience both culture and serenity. I believe my clients will be captivated by the Blue Lagoon's crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, making it an unforgettable addition to their travel itinerary.
Sustainable Tourism in Rwanda
Rwanda holds a special place in my heart for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and extraordinary wildlife. Known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," Rwanda offers an unparalleled ecotourism experience that is both immersive and sustainable. Whether you're trekking through lush forests to encounter mountain gorillas or exploring the vast savannas of Akagera National Park, every moment in Rwanda is a testament to nature's splendor and resilience. This guide aims to showcase the best of Rwanda's ecotourism, ensuring your visit is both memorable and respectful to the environment.
Sustainable Tourism in Rwanda
Rwanda holds a special place in my heart for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and extraordinary wildlife. Known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills," Rwanda offers an unparalleled ecotourism experience that is both immersive and sustainable. Whether you're trekking through lush forests to encounter mountain gorillas or exploring the vast savannas of Akagera National Park, every moment in Rwanda is a testament to nature's splendor and resilience. This guide aims to showcase the best of Rwanda's ecotourism, ensuring your visit is both memorable and respectful to the environment.