Turtle Trackers - Brief Article - Product Announcement

Travel America, Sept, 2001

TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort in St. Pete Beach, Florida, is offering a "Turtle Tracker" package designed to increase public awareness of the plight of the endangered Loggerhead sea turtle, which nests in the area. Available through April 30, 2002, the package (from $639) includes three nights accommodations for three; three tickets and a VIP behind-the-scenes tour of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, which is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine animals; a $50 pass for family activities; one color-your-own turtle T-shirt and markers; and an Explorer Value Pass for each day.

Each guest reserving the eco-package becomes a foster parent to a Loggerhead sea turtle nest through the Adopt-A-Turtle-Nest program. In addition to an official adoption certificate, the proud adoptive "parents" are given the location of the nest, the dates that eggs are deposited and hatched, information on hatchling success, and photographs of the nest, the hatchlings, and the mother Loggerhead.

Set upon 35 acres of white beaches, the TradeWinds Island Grand is part of TradeWinds Islands Resorts. The resorts offer access to three resorts in one with beachfront recreation, fine dining, and exclusive golf privileges at a private country club.

Contact: TradeWinds Island Grand (TravelAmerica Magazine), 5600 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706; (800) 237-0707; www.tradewindsresort.com.