Our mission is to create better global citizens by helping them experience cultures and people different from their own.

About the Founders

Naveen Dittakavi is an airfare search savant, passionate about helping everyday people realize their goals of traveling internationally sooner rather than later.

As an entrepreneur for over 25 years, he’s been designing software programs since 1996 and holds a patent in data retrieval systems. From early on, he’s been fascinated with creating software products that make people’s lives easier.

He knows that it’s too easy to put off international travel until retirement because it seems out of reach. So, after he and his wife Shaylee found an incredible flight deal in 2014, he turned his passion for travel and his entrepreneurial spirit toward building a system that would allow others to share in the experience.

Shaylee has been involved in Next Vacay® from the very beginning when they were both working from the kitchen table (or the airport before setting off on their next trip). She was the original deal hunter, customer service rep, and everything in between, supporting wherever she could as they struggled to keep up with the company’s fast growth—which took off faster than they ever imagined! Although Naveen has made Next Vacay his full-time job, Shaylee still holds her full-time position as a Hospitalist physician in Augusta, GA.

Outside of work, the couple is passionate about travel and juggles their busy schedules to make time for domestic and international trips each year. In 2019, they welcomed their son Shiv — Next Vacay’s current CEO (Cutest Executive Officer) — and look forward to introducing him to the great big world out there on future trips! Sadly, in 2018, they lost their firstborn daughter Sonum at 39 weeks, 6 days due to an umbilical cord accident. Sonum has inspired a deeply personal mission to touch the lives of others who have experienced a loss such as this.
Please read more here.

Naveen and Shaylee photo collage

Our Team

Alma B. photo

Alma

CSR | Customer Success Team

location iconCamarines Norte, Philippines

Alma is from the Philippines and is a proud mom of four girls and four adorable dogs. Growing up in the province of Camarines Norte, she developed a deep love for the beach, family gatherings, and soaking in the beauty of nature. When she’s not working, Alma enjoys relaxing with a good book and coffee, cooking meals for her family, or spending time together watching Netflix. Her favorite destination is Calaguas Island, and her best travel advice is simple: if you’re thinking about traveling, just go and enjoy all the beauty the world has to offer.

Ana M. photo

Ana

Dealhunter | Deal Team

location iconBelgrade, Serbia

Ana is an architect from Belgrade, Serbia, with a passion for travel, adventure, and discovering the beauty found in different cultures around the world. She believes travel is one of life’s greatest experiences and enjoys helping others turn their travel dreams into unforgettable memories. When she’s not planning her next journey, Ana enjoys exploring new destinations and finding inspiration in both historic and modern architecture. Her favorite destination is Valencia, Spain, where the vibrant culture, beautiful coastline, and unique blend of old and new left a lasting impression. Her best travel advice is to slow down, wander beyond the main attractions, and embrace the unexpected moments that often become the most memorable parts of any trip.

Cindy A. photo

Cindy A.

CSR | Customer Success Team

location iconPangasinan, Philippines

Cindy is from the Philippines and enjoys being part of a collaborative team where people can learn from one another and share ideas. She’s naturally curious and enjoys figuring things out, whether that means diving into tech rabbit holes, working on side projects, or discovering something new along the way. When she’s not working, Cindy enjoys gaming, watching movies and series, trying new food spots, and spending quiet time with family and friends. Her favorite destination is Boracay, where she loves the white sand beaches, clear water, and laid-back island atmosphere. Her best travel advice is to slow down and fully enjoy the places you visit—sometimes the best memories happen when you put the phone away and simply enjoy the moment.

Cindy C. photo

Cindy C.

Personnel and Performance Manager | Leadership Team

location iconTexas, United States

Cindy is a Texas native, wife, and mom of three who’s always up for the next adventure. She believes it’s never too early to start making travel memories—whether it’s a big trip or a quick weekend getaway. When she’s not working, you’ll find her volunteering at her kids’ school events, cheering them on at their activities, or planning the next family trip. Her favorite destination is Hawaii, and her best advice is simple: start traveling—the memories are always worth it.

Edmond M. photo

Ed M.

Dealhunter | Deal Team

location iconClark, Philippines

Ed grew up in a rural town in Clark, Philippines, and has always been passionate about discovering new places, cultures, and cuisines. A self-proclaimed food and travel enthusiast, he has visited more than 20 countries and loves bringing home local recipes from his adventures around the world. When he’s not working, Ed enjoys seeking out great food and planning his next trip. His favorite destination is Palawan, Philippines, known for its stunning natural beauty and island landscapes. His best travel advice is to eat where the locals eat and spend time exploring local supermarkets and farmers’ markets—they’re often the best places to experience a destination’s culture firsthand.

Haggai W. photo

Haggai W.

Lead Developer | Technical Team

location iconOntario, Canada

Haggai was born and raised in Kenya and now lives in Canada with his wife and three children. With a strong background in full-stack software development, he enjoys building reliable, user-friendly systems that help make travel planning easier and more accessible. When he’s not working, Haggai enjoys spending time with his family, exploring emerging technologies, and watching soccer and movies. His favorite destination is Bali, Indonesia, and his best travel advice is to stay curious, embrace different cultures, and never wait for the “perfect time” to explore the world.

Janet B. photo

Janet B.

Senior CSR | Customer Success Team

location iconTexas, United States

Janet is a Texas native who loves staying active, spending time with her three fur babies, and planning her next adventure. Whether she’s training for her next race, playing pickleball, or traveling somewhere new, she enjoys finding experiences that keep life exciting. When she’s not working, Janet can usually be found with her dog Sunny and her two cats, Midnight and Luna. Her favorite destination is Reykjavik, Iceland, and her best travel advice is simple: don’t be afraid to travel solo. Some of the best adventures, and personal growth, can come from taking the trip on your own.

Jennylyn L. photo

Jen L.

General Assistant | Customer Success Team

location iconManila, Philippines

Jen is an introvert at heart who enjoys getting lost in great stories, whether through anime, movies, series, manhwa, or manga. She loves exploring different genres and appreciates anything with a unique perspective or engaging storyline. When she’s not relaxing with her favorite shows or books, Jen enjoys spending time with her son and her beloved pets—four cats and one dog that she considers part of the family. Her favorite destination is Laguna, Philippines, where the natural hot springs create the perfect setting for making family memories. Her best travel advice is to slow down, enjoy the moment, and remember that meaningful trips don’t have to be rushed.

Jeza S. photo

Jeza S.

Executive Assistant | Leadership Team

location iconMisamis Oriental, Philippines

Jeza is based in the Philippines and works as the Executive Assistant to the CEO, helping keep day-to-day operations organized and running smoothly. She enjoys supporting the team behind the scenes and thrives in creating structure and efficiency in a fast-paced environment. When she’s not working, Jeza loves traveling, singing, and exploring new places with her husband. Her favorite destination is South Korea, where the food, culture, and atmosphere made the experience unforgettable. Her best travel advice is to plan enough to feel prepared, but always leave room for spontaneity—sometimes the best memories come from the unexpected.

Lyda M. photo

Lyda M.

Dealhunting Supervisor | Dealhunting Team

location iconAthens, Greece

Lyda is a lifelong traveler who proudly considers the world their home. With a background in agronomy, non-formal education, and coaching, their passion for travel has led them to live as a digital nomad for over 20 years. When they’re not working, Lyda enjoys reading romance, fantasy, and romantasy books or hosting events in the communities they’re part of around the world. Their favorite destination is Scotland, and their best travel advice is to stay flexible with your travel dates—you never know when the best deals will appear

Madeleine Y. photo

Madz Y.

CS Supervisor | Customer Success Team

location iconRizal, Philippines

Madz is an avid gamer who loves story-rich RPGs, fast-paced FPS games, and nostalgic ’90s classics. When she’s not immersed in a game, she enjoys baking, cooking, and discovering new restaurants—especially when traveling, since great food is one of her favorite parts of the experience. At home, life is always lively with her five dogs and flock of pet birds, including Indian ringnecks. Her favorite destination is Japan, and her best travel advice is to experience places like a local—take public transportation, explore on foot whenever possible, and don’t be afraid to wander into hidden gems along the way.

Jasmine R. photo

Maria I.

Dealhunter | Deal Team

location iconQuezon City, Philippines

Maria lives in the Philippines and has spent more than 10 years working as a freelance fashion stylist, travel and lifestyle blogger, content creator, and virtual assistant. She has a passion for creativity, storytelling, and discovering new experiences through travel. When she’s not working, Maria loves exploring both old and new destinations, learning about local history and culture, and finding the best food spots along the way. She especially enjoys creating travel itineraries, searching for affordable flights and accommodations, and writing travel guides. Her favorite part of traveling is experiencing places like a local and making meaningful memories wherever she goes.

Mark M. photo

Mark M.

Developer | Technical Team

location iconNairobi, Kenya

Mark was born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya, where his love for airplanes and travel began at a young age. What started as a fascination with aviation eventually grew into a passion for helping people around the world access affordable flights and create meaningful travel experiences. Mark now lives on the outskirts of Nairobi with his wife and four children. When he’s not working, he enjoys traveling, watching documentaries, reading, and serving in his local church. His favorite destination is Doha, Qatar, and his best travel advice is to travel as often as possible—especially with the people you love most.

Mary L. photo

Mary L.

CSR | Customer Success Team

location iconMisamis Oriental, Philippines

Mary is a sun-chasing, beach-loving mom of two who thrives on summer days and mountain breezes. A bookworm at heart, she enjoys quiet moments with a good read but is always ready for her next adventure. When she’s not spending time with her family, you’ll find her hitting the road for a refreshing getaway or indulging her sweet tooth. Her favorite destination is Camiguin Island, and her best travel advice is to pack light, leave room for meaningful souvenirs, and bring home memories that last a lifetime.

Moriah T. photo

Moriah T.

SEO Writer | Content Team

location iconOhio, United States

Moriah is an Ohio native who graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Psychology and has been passionate about travel for as long as she can remember. After spending several years in the service industry, she found her niche among fellow travelers and loves helping others experience the excitement of exploring the world. When she’s not planning her next adventure, Moriah enjoys reading, watching movies and TV shows, and discovering foreign-language programs that inspire future travels. Her favorite destination is New Zealand, and her best travel advice is not to let fear, or the lack of a travel companion, hold you back. Some of her most cherished memories came from taking her very first solo trip.

Roxee P. photo

Roxee

CSR | Customer Success Team

location iconRajasthan, India

Roxee graduated from Bukidnon State University in the Philippines with a degree in Development Communication and now lives in Rajasthan, India. Her love of travel has taken her across cultures and experiences, inspiring a deep appreciation for the people, traditions, and unexpected moments that make every destination unique. When she’s not working, Roxee enjoys crocheting, baking, running, and planning her next adventure. She especially loves family vacations, exploring local culture, and trying new foods wherever she travels. Her favorite destination is Vietnam, and her best travel advice is to be fully present in every moment and always set aside extra funds for the unexpected—because some of the best travel memories come from life’s surprises.

Rupender B. photo

Rupender B.

CSR | Customer Success Team

location iconRajasthan, India

Rupender graduated from the University of Rajasthan and lives in Jaipur, also known as the Pink City. Surrounded by a city rich in culture and tourism, he enjoys exploring new places, discovering great food, and learning something new wherever he goes. When he’s not working, Rupender enjoys playing chess and reading, always looking to expand his knowledge and curiosity about the world. His favorite part of travel is the sense of adventure and discovery that comes with experiencing new places and cultures.

Uzo O. photo

Uzo O.

CSR | Customer Success Team

location iconEnugu, Nigeria

Uzo was born and raised in Nigeria and studied Library and Information Science at the university. She enjoys connecting with people, learning new things, and bringing a thoughtful and positive attitude to everything she does. 2026 is an especially exciting year for Uzo as she and her partner prepare to welcome their baby boy and begin their journey into parenthood. When she’s not working, she enjoys binge-watching movies and spending time with loved ones. Her favorite destination is Obudu Mountain Resort in Nigeria, and her best travel advice is to take lots of pictures, enjoy the moment, and never be afraid to try new experiences along the way.

Yeison G. photo

Yeison

CSR | Customer Success Team

location iconAntioquia, Colombia

Yeison was born and raised in Medellín and loves meeting people from around the world who come to visit his beautiful city. Working at Next Vacay has been a dream come true for him, giving him the opportunity to work from home and avoid Medellín’s famous traffic. When he’s not working, Yeison enjoys playing fútbol with friends, spending time with family, and attending language exchange events where he can help others practice Spanish while improving his English. His favorite destination is Peru, and his best travel advice is simple: enjoy every single moment.