Enchanting Journeys :: Hello Beirut

the-journeys
Mystical Lebanon...experience it now

Hello Beirut

Asia sticks to you. & the word is out: as far as off-the-beaten-path destinations go and if you fancy travelling somewhere neither East nor West, and exotic & fascinating yet perfectly comfortable then, Lebanon might just be a rewarding destination. And it is an incredibly varied & exciting vacation destination, pulsating with a spectacular mix of people, traditions & landscapes.

Your journey through this mind-stirring country will blaze in your memory long after you have left its shores. Come……experience Lebanon with us………

The Middle East is quite simply extraordinary, one of the world's most fascinating and rewarding travel destinations. It was here that some of the most significant civilisations of antiquity rose & fell and where the three great monotheistic religions - Judaism, Christianity & Islam - were born. Left behind is an astonishing open-air museum of ancient cities & historic buildings, the stones of which still resonate with the sounds of the faithful.

The Middle East is home to some of the world's most significant cities - Jerusalem, Cairo, Damascus, Teheran, Baghdad & Istanbul & Beirut. The ruins of the once similarly epic cities of history - Petra, Persepolis, Ephesus, Palmyra, Baalbek, Leptis Magna & the bounty of ancient Egypt, also mark the passage of centuries in a region where the ancient world lives & breathes.

The landscapes of the region are equally spellbinding, from the unrivalled seas of sand dunes & palm-fringed lakes in Libya’s Sahara desert to the stunning mountains of the north & the underwater world of the Red Sea.

Above all else, however, your most enduring memory of the Middle East is likely to be its people. Their gracious welcome, many kindnesses & boundless hospitality speak of an altogether more civilised age.

From the gravitas of the Sahara to the blue tiles of Esfahan, this is a region for discerning travellers, for those looking for the story behind the headline, and where the bridges between ancient & modern civilisations are evident everywhere. If you believe what the media tells you and decide not to visit, you would be missing out on the journey of a lifetime.

And now, let us talk about Lebanon & leave your preconceptions at home.

Ancient Civilisation | Beauty of Islam | Redefining Hospitality

Little understood & seldom visited by Western tourists, Lebanon can seem opaque & enigmatic. Many preconceptions are based on its confusion with the Arab world, a fact lost on many in the West. For a country its small size, Lebanon has a staggering number of diversions to keep visitors entertained. Ancient history enthusiasts will be exhausted by the end of their trip: you can barely turn around without stumbling over a world-class archaeological site.

This diminutive Mediterranean nation has 7,000 years of history. Home of one of the most ancient civilizations in the world, Phoenicia, Lebanon hides beneath its ground an ancient world that still needs to get discovered. Recently, National Geographic declared that Lebanon is one of the world's oldest countries, famous for its exquisite beauty, diversity, glamor, European flavor & hospitable people. Its rich culture & history have placed it on the “must see” list of every world traveler.

An ancient land, Lebanon features in the writings of Homer & in the Old Testament. Its cities were major outposts & seaports in Phoenician and Roman times, just two of the great civilizations that touched this important Middle Eastern crossroads.

Coolly combining the ancient with the ultramodern, Lebanon is one of the most captivating countries in the Middle East. Lebanon is blessed with magnificent mountain vistas, majestic ancient ruins & an indomitable, hospitable people. Lebanon rewards the traveller with food for thought and a feast for the senses & the stomach.

It is a fascinating nexus point of the Middle East & the West; of Christianity & Islam; of tradition & modernity. Lebanon is an ancient land that has been at the heart of the growth of two of the world’s major religions, For centuries, diverse religious traditions have shared this land, creating a rich mosaic of religious beliefs & a unique multicultural society. Many times throughout its history, Lebanon has served as a place of refuge & spiritual retreat, and the modern religious pilgrim will discover this same sense of sanctuary in the beauty of the country’s holy places & natural terrain.

With all of the Mid-east’s best bits - warm & welcoming people, mind-blowing history & considerable culture, Lebanon is also the antithesis of many people's imaginings of the Middle East: mostly mountainous with skiing to boot, it is also laid-back, liberal & fun. It is a place where culture, family & religion are all-important.

Because of its financial power & diversity in its heyday, Lebanon was referred to as the "Switzerland of the East" during the 1960s, and its capital, Beirut, attracted so many tourists that it was known as "the Paris of the Middle East", thanks to its French influences & vibrant cultural & intellectual life.

Lebanon's diverse patchwork of Mediterranean-lapped coast, rugged alpine peaks & green, fertile valleys, is packed into a parcel of land some 225 km (140 miles) long & 46 km (29 miles) wide.

The nature of Lebanon makes it the only country in the Arab world that embraces four seasons yearly. No matter what the season, there is always something special to enjoy. In the winter season, ski resorts offer tourists slopes that are comparable to even the best resorts in Europe.

Lebanese cities are among the most famous names in ancient history & majestic ruins still stand today as a testimony to the greatness of people who lived in this land

Tripoli is considered to have the best souk in the country and is famous for its Mamluk architecture. It is well equipped with a taste of modernity as well; Jounieh, formerly a sleepy fishing village, is a town alive with nightclubs & glitz on summer weekends.

Once known as the 'Paris of the East', Beirut commands a magnificent position, thrust into the Mediterranean. Behind the city are towering mountains, visible when the traffic haze settles down. The Corniche seafront boasts beaches, restaurants, theatres and a dazzling variety of shops & restaurants. It is fast becoming the region's party place.

The cosmopolitan flair of modern-day Beirut, the gastronomic renown of the country's food & wine, and an educated & outward-looking population complement a country that is both traditional & progressive in outlook. Middle East's most glamorous, hedonistic city is home to a glorious national cuisine & a string of sexy beach resorts.

Lovers of nightlife will find a gregarious capital with bacchanalian parties going to all hours. Those seeking serene nature can wander through ancient cedar forests & dramatic mountain-scapes.

Outside of the capital, several UNESCO World Heritage Sites await, many of which reflect the country's various ancient civilizations. Phoenician tombs, Roman temples, Crusader castles & Mamlouk mosques can be found in the cities & ruins of Baalbeck, Byblos & Tyre. The town of Aanjar in the Bekaa Valley contains an Umayyad site from the 8^th century - a unique historical example of a commercial centre that was inland. Within the mountainous interior of the Kadisha Valley, ancient monasteries & churches can be seen, including a chapel built into the rock face.

As Lebanon is a relatively new country, there aren’t many traditions that the Lebanese can truly call their own. However, the locals have taken all the influences of other countries & developed a set of mannerisms only they will understand. Nothing beats trying to navigate the strange social customs that the people of Lebanon have. For all the flavors of its storied past & rugged natural beauty, Lebanon is a well-kept tourist secret that begs exploration.

Crafts in Lebanon are numerous & varied and can mostly be attributed to the patient work of craftsmen of the Lebanese mountains. Namely, blown glass, Phoenician Tyrian Purple fabrics, fine ceramics and the Arab’s magnificent jewelry, delicately embroidered textiles & garments woven with gold & silver threads. One can also mention the manufacture of the crusader’s bronze bells, 19^th century cutlery & 20^th century leather crafts.

Finally, Lebanon is the gourmet’s paradise, it’s cuisine is considered the richest of the region. Thanks to its marvelous Mediterranean climate, fresh fruits & vegetables abound here all year long. With varied & exotic food, the Lebanese cuisine, though often compared to that of other neighboring countries, has its own particular taste. From hummus to hommard (lobster), you will dine like a king.

On this glimpse of Beirut often called the "Paris of the Middle East" much has changed over the latter half of the 20^th century - Beirut rising to become glitterati central in the 60s but falling from grace during the bloody Civil War - but the city is back alive & kicking, enticing travellers with superb gastronomy, the Middle East's most vibrant nightlife. Spend 3 nights & discover all you can.

History, great food & idyllic scenery are just the beginning……. Take the plunge now & yep….Lebanon is waiting. With legendary sights, hospitality, food & nightlife, what more could a traveller want? A warm welcome, historical secrets & an artistic paradise awaits you & The Journeys is ready to take you on well, a journey (or journeys) of discover.

Come……be inspired & discover the World with us

Hello Beirut
Day \| Date	City	Transfers \| Sightseeing
*Any Day*
*01 \|* 00 \| 0	*Beirut*	✈ Arrival Transfer \| Free (balance of the day)
*02 \|* 00 \| 0	*Beirut*	AM *Beirut* \| Free (balance of the day)
*03 \|* 00 \| 0	*Beirut*	Full day at leisure
*04 \|* 00 \| 0	*Beirut*	Departure Transfer ✈

the-journeys
Mystical Lebanon... prepare to be charmed

Hello Beirut

Beirut

4 Days | 3 Nights

Day 01 - | ✈ Arrive Beirut at ???

Middle East is a grand epic, a cradle of civilisations and a beautiful, complicated land that's home to some of the planet's most hospitable people.

Welcome to mystical Lebanon the diminutive Mediterranean nation, a fascinating nexus point of many civilizations, whose traces may still be seen today, & the West; of Christianity & Islam; of tradition & modernity. Prepare to fall in love.

Arrive in vibrant Beirut - the capital & largest city of Lebanon was once the self-proclaimed "Paris of the Middle East", kind of where East-meets-West in the Middle East.

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal? - Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to the hotel. He / she will provide assistance during Check-in & will discuss the program for the next couple of days & offer tips in case you want to explore independently during your leisure time.

If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer. Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel.

Reach the hotel & Check-in.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

Balance of the day is at leisure to relax or independent exploration or optional activities (We shall be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Beirut is the perfect destination for seasoned travellers: here, East and West intertwine in intricate ways, creating a city so magnetic that few are able to resist its powerful draw. Much has changed over the latter half of the 20^th century - Beirut rising to become glitterati central in the 60s but falling from grace during the bloody Civil War – but the city is alive and kicking, enticing travellers with superb gastronomy, the Middle East's most vibrant nightlife & a close proximity to the ancient towns of Byblos & Baalbek.

Fast-paced, fashion-conscious & overwhelmingly friendly, it is not a relaxing city to spend time in – it is too crowded, polluted & chaotic for that - but its energy, soul, diversity & intoxicating atmosphere make it a vital, addictive city.

Beirut was seen as the "European gateway to the Middle East" & vice versa & was often called the "Paris of the Middle East"..

The city is on a relatively small headland jutting into the east Mediterranean. Due to Lebanon's small size, the capital has always held the status as the only true cosmopolitan city in the country & ever since Independence, has been the commercial, financial & tourist hub of the Middle East. It was a top destination among wealthy Arabs & European tourists, due to Beirut's unique geography, climate, diverse culture & freedom.

Since the end of the war in 1989, Beirut has undertaken an aggressive rebuilding policy & has been working hard to regain its status as the cultural & intellectual center in the Middle East which it has lost to Cairo as well as a center for commerce, fashion & media which is now dominated by Dubai,

Beirut has survived a rough history, falling under the occupation of one empire after another. Originally named Berut - "The Wells" by the Phoenicians, Beirut's history goes back more than 5000 - 7000 years. Excavations in the downtown area have unearthed layers of Phoenician, Hellenistic, Roman, Arab & Ottoman civilizations. Following World War II, Lebanon gained its independence from France & Beirut became its capital in 1943.

Most areas of Beirut have a friendly atmosphere & Beirutis have a reputation for being very polite, friendly, sociable & outgoing. The locals are used to the sight of foreigners & many of them are happy to get to know you & even to show you around the city. Many Beirutis (as well as other Lebanese) speak French & / or English, to varying degrees, along with Arabic.

It still has an outdoor cafe culture & the city offers some of the best night life in the whole region. Going out at night is a smart affair, so dress fashionably to fit in, although this does not mean dressing up in a suit; you will find many men in sporty t-shirts, dark jeans & smart running shoes at even the trendiest nightclubs. Many live concerts are held throughout the year with international musicians & DJ's & Beirut has hosted some of the world’s biggest names in Dance music.

European architecture can be found everywhere & each district has its own sights & places to visit. A couple of excellent museums are the key sights, but exploring the character of the different districts, strolling the waterfront & diving into the city's wonderful restaurant & nightlife scene are major attractions.

As Lebanon is so small & day trips easy, some travellers stay here for their entire visit. Visit the national heritage sites around Lebanon; every city in the country has at least some form of ancient or historic site.

Once you leave Beirut, visit any of the other cities in Lebanon. Depending on the season visiting, you can go skiing in one the six mountain resorts, or go to the beaches in Tyr or one of the beach resorts in Jounieh.

Lebanon is famous for its food & in spite of the increasing influence of Western & other cuisine, there is an appreciation of farm work & Lebanese cultural food heritage. Lebanese cuisine is a mix of Arab, Turkish & Mediterranean influences, and enjoys a worldwide reputation for its richness & variety as well as its Mediterranean health factor. Lebanon is a great country to eat vegan since many dishes, especially those part of Mezze, are traditionally made without animal ingredients. Not to speak about the delicious fresh fruit & veg. Some of the sweets are also vegan, depending on the confectioner.

Lebanon is well known for being a vacation destination for the people of the Persian Gulf, many of whom wear the traditional hijab. However, many Lebanese are rather liberal in comparison to the people of Lebanon's neighboring countries - short skirts, high heels & bikinis are a regular sight.

Overnight.

Day 02 - | Beirut

Beirut is a hub of culture & history. The city has survived the ravages of time & war, but there is still much to see. Be enchanted by the capital of modern Lebanon, the country’s cultural and commercial center.

Morning, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am & proceed for a 4 hour sightseeing tour of Beirut.

See ‘some’ of the city’s top attractions while discovering how Beirut was built on a rocky headland and its rise & fall over the centuries.

Start at the Corniche, the wide seaside promenade in Avenue des Français which was built during the period of the French Mandate of Syria & Lebanon. Lined with palm trees whose trunks are pockmarked with bullet holes from the Lebanese Civil War, the Waterfront has views of the Mediterranean & the summits of Mount Lebanon to the east. The Corniche is a popular destination for walkers, joggers & bikers. Push cart vendors offer various local snacks & drinks.

South of the Corniche is the historical Raouche, a residential & commercial neighborhood known for its upscale apartment buildings, numerous restaurants & cliff-side cafes that line Avenue de Paris.

Off the coast of Raouche, there are 2 huge 60 meter high natural rock formations called the Pigeons' Rock which stand like gigantic sentinels. These impressive limestone outcrops were formed after a very big earthquake that hit the area in the 13^th century. Raouche also is claimed to be the remains of a sea monster the Greek hero Perseus killed to save Andromeda. Perseus used Medusa’s head on the monster to turn it into stone.

A prime selfie territory & a Beirut landmark, it is considered a Lebanese natural treasure. This is a very romantic spot, especially during sunset. A couple of cliff-top restaurants & cafes here where you can sit with a shisha or beer & enjoy panoramic views of the Bay & famous Pigeon’s Rock.

Next stop on your ‘walking’ tour will be the National Museum of Beirut, the principal museum of archaeology in Lebanon where you can begin to understand the civilisations that have shaped Lebanon (from outside only. Entry not included).

The Museum is located at the end of the Green Line that demarcated the city during the civil war (& for those 15 years the museum was closed & its facade suffering serious damage throughout the conflict).

The collection begun after World War I & the Museum was officially opened in 1942. The collections total about 100,000 objects, most of which are antiquities & medieval finds from excavations undertaken by the Directorate General of Antiquities. About 1300 artifacts are exhibited, ranging in date from prehistoric times to the medieval Mamluk period. During the 1975 Lebanese Civil War, the Museum stood on the front line that separated the warring factions.

The Museum's Egyptian Revival building & its collection suffered extensive damage in the war, but most of the artifacts were saved by last-minute pre-emptive measures. Today, after a major renovation, the National Museum has regained its former position, especially as a leading collector for ancient Phoenician objects.

The displays include sarcophagi from the Phoenician period to ornate mosaics from the Roman city of Baalbek. A short video is played every hour exactly, illustrating the history of the Museum, especially the damage during the civil war, measures undertaken to protect the antiquities & the later restoration procedure with original video footage from that era.

Moving further down the Green Line, walk through the city center Nejmeh Square where you will see one of the largest reconstruction projects in the world, to an important landmark in Lebanese history, the Martyrs’ Square - a popular spot for protest & civil gathering in Downtown, dedicated to those who were executed during Ottoman rule.

First constructed in 1931, the monument has remained relevant due to the repeated political assassinations during Lebanon’s recent rocky political history. Originally, it was an open space beyond the Ottoman city’s walls & was named ‘Sahat Al Burj’ - or ‘Tower Square’ - because it was marked by ‘Burj Al Kashef’. Under the French mandate however, it became a modernized meeting place with kiosks, a tramway & souks

From colonialism to Civil War & occupation, the Square was used as a point that divided the city into East & West Beirut to indicate opposing sects. Subsequently, the spot was completely destroyed as buildings & statues fell to ruin under the rain of bullets & bombings. Beirut has experienced a lot of strife for its size & Martyrs’ Square is one of the most iconic illustration.

In 1930, a sculpture of a Muslim & Christian woman holding hands over a coffin adorned the Square. It was designed by local artist Youssef Hoyek as a testament to the locals coming together at a time of strife. The initial statue was changed in 1956 & the current stone’s monument designed by Italian artist, Marino Mazzacurati was inaugurated in 1960.

See the Mohammad Al Amin Mosque, which resembles the Blue Mosque in Istanbul & with its 65 metres tall minarets, it is a very useful navigation tool!

Walking in the Downtown district, see the huge reconstruction project-taking place to create a new commercial & residential district of the 21^st century. Much of the city has been rebuilt since the war ended but there are plenty of reminders of the 15 year civil war that Lebanon lived through. Pass the bullet-ridden Holiday Inn which still stands, with talks of demolishing the building or preserving it still taking place.

This Project has actually discovered that the capital is standing on the site of a very ancient settlement going back at least 5,000 years. Recent excavations have uncovered important archaeological sites from Canaanite, Phoenician & Persian, Roman, Byzantine, Omayyad, Abbassid, Crusader, Mamluke & Ottoman eras.

The ‘walking’ tour concludes & you walk back to the hotel or continue exploring on your own.

Balance of the day is at leisure. There are many optional activities if you want to go out (we will be happy to offer suggestions & make arrangements).

Overnight. B

Day 03 - | Beirut

Full day is at leisure for independent explorations or optional activities (we would be happy to offer suggestion & make arrangements).

Overnight. B

Day 04 - | Depart ✈Beirut at ????

Alas, like all good things, the wonderful experience comes to an end. Time to say good-bye to enchanting Canaan & go home. But, we sure hope that you may want to discover a bit more of this mystical country which boasts a recorded 7,000 years of ‘Biblical’ history, on your next visit.

Check-out of the hotel by 12:00 noon (if the departure time is later in the evening, we will request the hotel to allow the usage of the hotel facilities & to leave the luggage at the Bell Desk).

In time, you will be met by a Journeys Rep, who will ensure your comfort & transfer you to Terminal? - Terminal? - Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport for your onward journey. B

*** End of Services ***

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the-journeys

Mystical Lebanon... prepare to be charmed

Hello Beirut

What is included:

Inclusions

Transfers to / from Hotel / Airport & City Tours / Excursions by private A/c vehicle*
Services of a Journeys Rep for assistance on all Arrival / Departure Transfers
Porterage at Airport / Hotels
Accommodation for a total of 3 nights in the selected Hotels
Meals as per itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch & D=Dinner)
Services of English speaking local Guides for all Sightseeing Tours / Excursions as per Itinerary*
Entrance Fees at the Monuments, wherever applicable
Rechargeable SIM Card (Data & Voice) to enable a 24 / 7 connection with family
All Government Taxes & Service Fees, wherever applicable
24 / 7 Emergency Contact
Bottled Water during Tours / Drives
Farewell Gift

Excludes

International flights
Visa or Visa Fee for Lebanon (Canadian & US citizens can obtain the Visa on arrival)
Airport Tax payable on final departure, if any
Camera / Video Fees, wherever applicable, at the Monuments
Items of personal nature i.e. Room Service, Laundry, Telephone Calls, Internet, Fax, Beverages, Medical or Evacuation Expenses, Insurance, Gratuities & Tips
Any Meals not specifically listed in the itinerary
Any optional Programs / Services
Any items not specified under Inclusions

* Guaranteed departures with minimum 2 guests. Seat in Coach. There may be other participants & group size may vary. Participants may come from all over the world & most of them will be English speaking. Private Tour with English speaking Guide & vehicle can be arranged.

** Please note that the Program highlights the main attractions that are to be visited each day. The sightseeing tours combine ‘walking’ & driving. Some Monuments / places may require extra Entrance Fees to be paid for accessing some of the areas.

*** It is extremely rare that Programs need to be changed but it can occur. We reserve the right to change, amend or alter the Itinerary if required, for example, occasionally the tour sequence & duration of time spent in each place / city can change due to local conditions which are out of our control or due to heavy traffic conditions or bad weather. The Price will not be affected.

Conditions related to specific Tours will be advised in due course, if required.

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the-journeys

Mystical Lebanon... prepare to be charmed

Hello Beirut

Where you will stay:

Hello Beirut
City	Nights	Superior ***	First Class ****	Deluxe*****
*Beirut*	3	Mozart	4 Points by Sheraton	Radissun Blu Martinez

	3

The Journeys has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard due to non-availability of the selected hotels.

Check-in time is usually 2:00 pm or later. Check-out time is 12:00 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. We will ask at the front desk on your behalf, if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.

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the-journeys

Mystical Lebanon... prepare to be charmed

Hello Beirut

And last but not least:

Departure:

Arrival in Beirut on Any Day (minimum 2 guests)

Validity:

→ December 2021

Prices:

We offer several accommodation choices for this tour. The price varies by selected accommodations. The itinerary remains unchanged.

Exchange rates fluctuate with great frequency. Please contact us for current Pricing & we will respond

within 24 hours.

Hello Beirut
*Price Per Person - C$*	Superior ***	First Class ****	Deluxe *****
*Occupancy - Double*	On request	On request	On request
*Single*	On request	On request	On request
*Triple*	On request	On request	On request

*Airfare - International*	On request	On request	On request

*Miscellenous*	If required	If required	If required

.

Some important notes

Flights are subject to constant modifications / delays and cancellations. In such cases, we will do all possible to find the best available alternative / solution but will not accept any liability, whatsoever.
Our rates only include those items which are specified in the Itinerary / Inclusions.
The cost has been calculated on the existing tariffs / conditions and in case of any currency fluctuations or amendment in local Government taxes, or any fuel hike, we reserve the right to revise the tour price accordingly.
Our quotations are calculated on base category of accommodation at each property and are subject to modification, if the same hotel / category of room not available at the time of reservation. In that case, we will confirm a superior category of room at a comparable or better hotel and supplement charges, if any, shall be advised accordingly. Final Itinerary will illustrate updated information and / or it would be furnished at the time of confirmation.
All prices are per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability at the time of booking. The from price reflects the lowest available price at time of publication, which is valid for a specific start date or dates and also based on availability at the time of booking.
Room availability is getting saturated due to heavy demands from the tourism industry, international Fairs and Congresses. Due to these constant sold- out situations the hotels are applying the cancellation rules more stringently. Once the reservation is guaranteed, the booking will be subject to full cancellation charges as per our Terms & Conditions (details will be advised at the time of deposit). We strongly recommend obtaining Insurance to protect yourself against any unforeseen scenarios.
Additional services including Optionals, if any, can be paid directly by the clients to our local offices.

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