Bidding starts today for Sustainable Travel International's bi-annual Green Travel Auction. The online auction starts at 8 am EDT on October 15th and runs 24 hours a day until October 30th. Through the Green Travel Auction, STI brings travelers and responsible travel companies together to raise money for its educational programs and to promote sustainable tourism development.
Sustainable Travel International (STI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting responsible tourism by providing programs that help travelers, businesses and destinations protect the environment, preserve cultural heritage and contribute to economic development.
'The Green Travel Auction is an opportunity to support a good cause and take advantage of great values on responsible vacations,' explains STI president Brian T. Mullis. 'Many of the items will be sold for a fraction of the retail price, making winter travel planning easy and affordable. From eco safari adventures to rainforest excursions and everything in between, the Green Travel Auction offers something for everyone.'
The Green Travel Auction features an assortment of eco-tours and green hotel stays donated by travel and tourism providers from across the globe who have a demonstrated commitment to responsible travel. A few of the packages up for bidding in the live auction include:
Alaska (USA): Embark on a voyage and discover magnificent glaciers, abundant wildlife, and scenery that is off-the-charts on this 7-night cruise for 2 people. A week of breathtaking scenery by day, onboard entertainment by night, and the finest cuisine at sea are all included.
- Opening Bid: US$1200, Retail Value: $2500
Peru: Enter another world during this 3-day/4-night stay for 2 people at the Reserva Amazonica Lodge. Exotic, yet accessible, the lodge is situated in a private reserve, surrounded by the vast jungle canopy of the Amazon rainforest. This trip is best taken during the dry season, November through March.
- Opening Bid: US$700, Retail Value: $1500
South Africa: Explore the wonders of Africa on this once-in-a-lifetime 8 day eco-safari. From gourmet meals and 5-star accommodations to wildlife excursions and authentic culture, this safari has a little bit of everything. Safari dates are available in March, May and August of 2010.
- Opening Bid: US$4700, Retail Value: $7200
Papua New Guinea: Embrace the rich tribal culture of Papua New Guinea during this 3-night all-inclusive stay for 2 people in the Whagi Guest House. Airport transfers, accommodations, meals, traditional welcome, and nightly activities are all included.
- Opening Bid: US$300, Retail Value: $700
Visit STI's auction page to view and bid on these trips: sustainabletravel.cmarket.com.
For more information about the Green Travel Auction, contact the auction manager at valv@sustainabletravel.com, call 800-276-7764
Logos, product and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners.
