While social distancing has put most bucket list trips on hold for the time being, that doesn’t mean that there’s nothing fun to do. Attractions the world over are offering virtual tours, wineries are still offering wine tastings, and theater lovers can still get their taste of Broadway. But one online auction is upping offering up a handful of truly unique experiences that you won’t be able to find anywhere else.
Sotheby’s and Google have teamed up to throw the online auction of all online auctions with virtual experiences that will give you some serious bragging rights. The companies have partnered with celebrities and dignitaries from all walks of culture, business, politics, and science to raise funds for the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and their work to fight the spread of COVID-19 in vulnerable communities across the globe.
The online auction offers some pretty incredible (and yes, bucket-worthy) experiences that can be enjoyed virtually. So, technically, you and a friend could be recording a song with Sting who would be in his studio in England while you are hanging out in your living room. And if your vocals can use some coaching, the 17-time Grammy award winning artist could also share a trick or two on how to expand your vocal range.
Other highlights from the online auction include a virtual visit of Highclere Castle, where Downton Abbey was filmed, with its owners, the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, writer and creator of the TV series Julian Fellowes, and actors Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern, aka Lord and Lady Grantham.
And if you are in the mood to discuss the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on international politics, then how about you do so with former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton over a coffee? Or maybe you and Madeleine Albright can share ideas on the current global issues while sipping tea?
You can also bid for a chance to have a private conversation with Apollo 9 astronaut Russell Schweickart, the first spacewalker of the Apollo program, or an acting lesson conducted by Sir Patrick Stewart, famous for, among many other things, his roles of Jean-Luc Picard from Star Wars.
All bidding starts at only $50 and there are no reserve prices, meaning there are no hidden minimum prices.
“With those most vulnerable in need of all the help that we can give, we would like to thank Sotheby’s, Google, and all the luminaries who have agreed to participate and donate their time for this auction in support of IRC’s front-line efforts to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in vulnerable communities across the U.S. and Europe,” David Miliband, President and CEO of the IRC, said in a press release.
The online auction will be held online from May 1 until May 8th.
