Internet Brands, Inc, a leading operator of media and e-commerce sites for “large ticket” consumer purchases, today announced the acquisition of Wikitravel and World66, two leading community travel guides of up-to-date, traveler-focused content. The sites are growing exponentially, collectively attracting more than 2 million visits per month, more than triple a year ago.
Both websites utilize wiki-based collaborative editing technology, and are built on the principle that travelers often get their best information from other travelers.
Internet Brands recognizes that even the prospect of commercialization of some community driven sites, such as Wikipedia.org, has produced controversy amongst community members. Internet Brands believes the goals of the community can be facilitated and enhanced by thoughtful monetization strategies.
[via press release]