Nearly 5,000 are feared to have died in the disaster after two major earthquakes struct the region on Monday (6 February). Until 30 April, Intrepid will also donate all profits from bookings for trips to Turkey to the appeal.
Its foundation has partnered with the Australian Red Cross to ensure funds are allocated to provide both immediate and longer-term relief to communities affected by the earthquakes.
Intrepid will match donations to the Turkey and Syria Earthquake Appeal while covering the foundation’s administrative costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to the Australian Red Cross.
"This earthquake has devastated communities across southeastern Turkey and Syria," said Biheng Zhang, Intrepid Foundation general manager.
"Most of us can only imagine the trauma of this scale of disaster but through supporting this appeal, we can help communities that need it the most by providing basic emergency first aid and items such as blankets and tents to help house families during the middle of winter."
Intrepid has a long and close association with Turkey, with it becoming the operator’s second destination in 1990 – and with the company’s logo continuing to feature a Turkish mosque motif. Today, Intrepid operates 30 tours in Turkey and has 25 team members based in Istanbul.
The operator had one group in the country at the time of the earthquake, who were on the opposite side of the country from the earthquake’s epicentre near Gaziantep. All are safe and accounted for.
"Customer safety remains Intrepid’s number one priority, and while the company is closely assessing government travel advisories, no significant changes to future departures are being planned," said Intrepid.
Chief executive James Thornton added: “Intrepid Travel was founded on the idea of using travel as a force for good and giving back to the places we visit. Matching donations and donating all profits from our trips in Turkey is the least we can do for a country that has given so much to our travellers, and done so much for the Intrepid community.
"Our thoughts are with all of those who have lost loved ones and whose lives have been deeply impacted by this devastating earthquake."
Head to the Intrepid Foundation Turkey and Syria earthquake appeal website to find out more and donate.
