Meet Our Team
We're a passionate team of travelers, parents, and technologists united by one mission: making family travel accessible and joyful for everyone. We understand the unique challenges families face when planning vacations, and we're here to help.
Our Mission
Families with special needs shouldn't have to choose between vacation dreams and vacation planning nightmares. We're redefining family travel as truly inclusive — where accessibility, sensory needs, dietary restrictions, and every family member's comfort are the starting point, not an afterthought.
Our mission is to lead this category in North America, giving families back their time and peace of mind so they can focus on what matters: creating memories together.
The People Behind BestVacation
John Burke
Co-Founder & CEO
Having lived on five continents and traveled to over sixty countries, John’s global mindset is grounded in intercultural empathy. As a father of four and a former travel executive, he has witnessed a stark divide: while luxury travelers receive curation and concierges, families and those with specific needs are met with checkboxes and compliance - despite both requiring an extra level of care. John is dedicated to re-engineering the industry so that accessibility is the default, not an afterthought, making inclusive travel affordable and seamless for everyone.
Dr. Reinhard Patzschke
Co-Founder — Commercial Officer
With over 20 years of experience in the vacation rental industry, Reinhard brings unparalleled market knowledge and operational expertise. His understanding of family travel needs is both professional and deeply personal — shaped by experiences traveling with his autistic and visually impaired sister, Claudia.
Dr. Walter Forkel
Co-Founder — Technology Officer
Walter brings cutting-edge AI expertise with a deeply personal mission. As a father of four, he experienced firsthand the challenges families face when planning meaningful vacations. His background in data analytics and AI model development allows him to approach travel planning through a unique computational lens.
Julius Weilert
Co-Founder — Data & AI Officer
Julius brings a passion for building intuitive, high-impact tech. As a computer science student with a background in AI, he pairs hands-on skills with a drive to simplify the chaos of family travel. Growing up in a five-person household, he knows how complex vacation planning can be — and is turning that into smarter tools.
What We Believe
Family First
Every decision we make puts family needs at the center. We build for parents, kids, grandparents, and everyone in between.
Accessibility for All
Travel should be possible for everyone, regardless of abilities. We specialize in finding destinations that welcome all families.
Personalization
No two families are alike. Our AI learns your unique needs and preferences to find vacations that truly fit.
Simplicity
Planning a family vacation shouldn't be stressful. We take the complexity out of travel planning.