Light diffusing optical fibers for use illumination applications and which have a uniform color gradient that is angularly independent are disclosed herein along with methods for making such fibers. The invention provides for an auction system where bidders are identified using authentication or similar techniques, and their bids are filtered to reduce noise and eliminate unwanted bids or comments before being broadcast to the balance of the bidders. The associated system performs these functions, among others, to provide information for a traveler planning a trip to a particular destination or destinations.