Meet Our Team
BestVacation was born at the intersection of technology and empathy – where algorithmic precision meets genuine understanding of family dynamics. Our founding team combines complementary strengths united by shared values and mutual trust.
Dr. Walter Forkel
Co-Founder & Technology Visionary
Walter brings cutting-edge AI expertise to BestVacation with a deeply personal mission. As a father of three active children, he experienced firsthand the challenges families face when planning meaningful vacations that accommodate everyone's needs. His background in data analytics and AI model development allows him to approach travel planning through a unique computational lens.
Dr. Reinhard Patzschke
Co-Founder & Travel Industry Veteran
With over 20 years of experience in the vacation rental industry, Reinhard brings unparalleled market knowledge and operational expertise to BestVacation. His understanding of family travel needs is both professional and deeply personal – shaped by experiences traveling with his autistic and visually impaired sister, Claudia.
Julius Weilert
Technical Lead
Julius brings a passion for building intuitive, high-impact tech to BestVacation. 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 experienced just how complex vacation planning can be — and now he's turning that into smarter and more personalized tools.
Our Core Beliefs
1. Family First: Family vacations aren't just trips – they're foundational memories that shape childhood experiences.
2. Technology as an Enabler: Technology should simplify complex decisions, not overwhelm parents with endless options.
3. Personalization: Every family deserves personalized travel recommendations that respect their unique needs and values.
4. American Spirit: The American spirit of optimism and exploration deserves a booking platform that matches its ambition.