The last chapter of my Tuscan tour covers Cortona and Florence. Ever since I've seen the American film Under The Tuscan Sun, I wanted to visit this place and guess what, I even found the Villa Bramasole, where the American writer, Frances used to live. Do you recognize it from the photo? Cortona is just how I imagined: lovely, cozy squares, breathtaking views and ultimate Italian lifestyle.
Leuta Wines - Tasting program in Cortona Once you are in Cortona, don't miss the chance to visit some of the best wineries in the region. I was lucky to book a last minute appointment for wine tasting at Leuta Wines. Their signature wine is made from Cabernet Franc. They represent tradition and innovation, balance and harmony all in one. The winery was set up by two long-time friends, Denis and Enzo, they left the world of finance and followed their dream. Their fields are located close to Cortona, the land is clay-rich with limestone. You will find here many types of grapes from Merlot, Malbec, Syrah, Sangiovese, to white ones like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Incrocio Manzoni. The wine tasting lasts about one hour and you can choose from various packages. The classic package costs 10 EUR and it includes 4 types of wine. They have different tasting rooms depending on the size of the group.
You also have the chance to visit the cellar and taste some types there. The whole place is lovely and nicely decorated. My absolute favorite wine was Syrah from 2015. Since it was aged 12 months in French barrels, that gives a kind of richness to the product. I also felt some pepper and coffee notes in it, while it was well-balanced and elegant with a long ending and soft tannins. If you are really into wines, just like me, I highly recommend you booking an appointment in advance and enjoy the Tuscan wines in a nice surrounding.
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I love local markets and I was happy to bump into one close to the main square. The atmosphere was great and so Italian. Local products above all!
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For dinner I chose to go to Cortona Bistrot, a family-run establishment. It's a good 10 minutes walk from the main square. You will have an incredible view of the valley around. The food was traditional Italian with a modern twist. Authentic place with style!
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View from the town
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Walking is the best way of discovering a new place. Being lost is not always that bad after all. I was strolling the little streets in the center for hours: lovely boutiques, chic coffees, ancient houses. I was definitely not ready to leave this place yet.
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Florence - Renessaince art and vibes
Before going back to Pisa, I had one more day in Florence. It's impossible to discover the city within a few days. The list of sights is enormous, you'd better check the museums, churches and programs before your departure. Here I'm focusing on a 'what to visit within one day" adventure. I'm showing you the basics and the best pizzeria in town.
I parked close to Ponte Vecchio, the most photographed bridge, so I started my city discovery there. The medieval old stone bridge is the only one that remained the same structure how it used to be, it still features shops and boutiques. The bridge first appeared in the 10th century, but it was destroyed by a flood in 1117. I've never been standing on such an old bridge before. Thank God it was not damaged during WWII, so we can enjoy the ultimate medieval atmosphere while passing by. Be preapred for crowds though!
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Uffizi Galleries probably sound familiar to everybody, it's the world-famous museum of Renessaince masterpieces. The first museum was dedicated to the art pieces collected by the Medici family. Be aware of the fact that there is always a long queue, no matter which time period you are going. Buy your entrance ticket in advance, that might help a little, but not much actually, you can still queue for an hour. Once you are finally inside, you will be blown away by the wonderful masterpieces: Boticelli, Giotto, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo. If you really want to see everything, it might take you about half a day to do so.
Did you know that this part of the city used to be the dodgy end? Well, it's not anymore, today it's the posh side.
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Florence Cathedral is a Gothic style church from the 15th century with various shades of green and pink, which looks really lovely in this combination. It's still the largest brick dome ever constructed in Europe. There is a crypt under the basilica, it's open for public. The best program is to climb up to the roof and enjoy the best view from there.
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What to eat in Italy if not pizza? After such a long day it felt great to sit in a cool pizzeria just chilling. Il Nutino is traditional and offers the best pizza I ever tasted. Choose the house wine and enjoy every bite of your well deserved pizza!
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Join me for the next chapter of my Tuscan round-trip, when I'm discovering some famous, medieval towns in the heart of the region! Spring is my favorite season, it's the perfect time for planning your Italian trip at this breathtaking place.
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San Gimignano - The romantic little town
The cute place is about halfway between Florence and Siena. You will immediately notice the high towers that rise above all the other buildings. San Gimignano is famous for its brilliant medieval architecture. Before discovering the place, I checked in at my hotel.
Agriturismo love
In Tuscany what else to choose if not a countryside-style accommodation, that features traditional and modern elements as well. Podere Bellavista is a typical "agriturismo" right next to the city. What can you expect here? Warm Italian welcome, magical surroundings and fine wines. Your breakfast will be served from fresh ingredients right from their own garden: vegetables, local products, olive and cheese.
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You can enjoy a panoramic view of the old city. At summer time the pool is pretty amazing in the middle of the quiet valley surrounded by vineyards. You can enroll for wine tasting and dinner, where Italian dishes are served with their house wine. I loved that evening, give a try! You either walk through a path (about 30 minutes) or take a taxi to San Gimignano.
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Medieval discovery
The place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1990, it feels like you step back in time. If you only have one day here, I highly recommend you visiting the Torre Grossa, the tallest medieval tower that was built in the 14th century and it's a museum today. It used to serve as a watchtower as well, but originally rich families built more than 70 towers in the center during the medieval times, these buildings became the symbol of power and richness. Entrance ticket costs 9 EUR, you can climb to the top on old stairs. You will notice frescoes on the walls and temporary exhibitions on the way. The most exciting part is reaching the top, you will be blown away by the view of the town, the forests and the vineyards.
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If you are looking for a nice place for dinner, here is something special for you. Le Vecchie Mura offers the best view and the most delicious Italian food in town. You have the feeling, that you are seating in the middle of a rose garden, while sipping a glass of wine. Look at that unfiltered view by sunset!
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Greve in Chianti
In the heart of the wine region, there is a cute, tiny place I stopped by for an hour. Greve in Chianti is just a good 30 kilometers away from Florence. Piazza Matteotti is the main square, that hosts the organic farmers' market every month and it's also known as the "Chianti capital", In September a wine expo is organized where all the best local wine types are available. Chianti Classico is my absolute favorite one when it comes to red types. The place is great for a quick walk and lunch. Dreamy location with the vineyards, olive groves and old castles around.
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Siena - A town full of life
The historical city is the capital of the province Siena, it's mainly known for its medieval architecture and the main square, Piazza del Campo. This is the market place where the famous horse race takes place. If you have a closer look at the square, you will notice its shell shape. The city has Etruscan origins, they were the first tribes who settled down here. Today it's popular among tourists.
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Siena cathedral is a gorgeous masterpiece of Gothic architecture, it's a combination of white stones and marble design from outside. The floor inside is featuring esoteric symbols and there are beautiful frescoes above the altar. This kind of style is very typical at the whole Tuscan region: rich decoration and medieval mood.
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If you have a few hours here, have an ice-cream at the main square and discover the little streets. Getting lost is sometimes the best way of getting to know the neighborhood. Explore the local shops as well! Their leather goods are representing an amazing quality at an affordable price.
In May I'm showing you the beauties of Cortona and Florence, that will be the end of my Tuscan tour. This is the place I keep going back time to time, there is always something to explore here. For fresh, spring inspired fashion accessories go HERE and get ready for a lovely picnic and gardening HERE!
In May I'm showing you the beauties of Cortona and Florence, that will be the end of my Tuscan tour. This is the place I keep going back time to time, there is always something to explore here. For fresh, spring inspired fashion accessories go HERE and get ready for a lovely picnic and gardening HERE!
Tuscany is the place I find myself keep returning over and over again, I’m blown away by the ultimate Tuscan lifestyle. What comes to my mind first: picture-perfect landscape, culturally rich spots, friendly people, endless vineyards and Chianti classico, my favorite red wine in the world. Treasure life's little pleasures, just how Italians do, it's part of their mentality. While traveling, I observe the locals and try to go beyond the surface. Spring season will be entirely dedicated to Tuscany, join me for a round trip and let's explore the best of this region together!
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The pretty Pisa
Are you ready to go? You can always find cheap flights to Pisa, so start your discovery in this cute little town!
The two favorite sights of mine in Pisa were the leaning tower and the harbor. You can admire the great structure even from the top, see the view from there, it’s pretty, right? 40 people are allowed in the tower at the same time, getting there requires to climb about 300 stairs and a pass a strict security check.
The two favorite sights of mine in Pisa were the leaning tower and the harbor. You can admire the great structure even from the top, see the view from there, it’s pretty, right? 40 people are allowed in the tower at the same time, getting there requires to climb about 300 stairs and a pass a strict security check.
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The tower was completed in the 14th century as a bell tower of the church. As soon as the construction started, the tower was leaning in the first phase already due to the soft ground. Right next to it, you can also visit the Duomo, entry is free. It’s a medieval Roman Catholic church with imposing Romanesque architecture. If you have a moment, lean on the grass right in font of the cathedral, beautiful surroundings!
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Marina di Pisa
The marina is a great place to grab a cocktail and enjoy the sunset. I love walking on the beach and getting sand between my toes, it’s always relaxing. With my friends we chose to stay at the harbor. The accommodation called Villino Ermione was so lovely, the place offers a nice, clean room and great view of the sea. The house used to be a private residence in the beginning of the 20th century, later on it was restored as a romantic, cozy accommodation complex. The charming little pink house was more than perfect for a night. The hotel features an elegant style with its special fresco decorations and old-style furniture.
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Enjoy the sea breeze and have a lovely dinner at one of the restaurants on the promenade! This is the place where you cannot miss the chance to eat seafood accompanied by a good glass of Prosecco.
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The white beach and its dark secrets
After leaving Pisa, we stopped at the White Beach (Spiagge Bianche) of Rosignano - Solvay, where the sea reflects special turquoise colors, the place is called the Caribbean of Tuscany. However white sand and unique blue colors are not typical in the region, that’s why I wanted to visit the place. While talking to the locals, I figured out, that the whole area is polluted and the chemicals, namely Calsium Chloride from Solvay Factory used to cause this unnatural scene, hence white sand and unbelievably blue sea. Even if it looks stunning at first sight, the result is caused by pollution.
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Bolgheri
Before heading to our next accommodation in the famous San Gimignano, I wanted to make a short stop at a historical village. Less than 10 kilometers away from the coastline of San Vincenzo you can admire the little village of Bolgheri. Before actually arriving to the place, you will drive through the Cypress Avenue, the road is bordered by ancient , centuries- old cypresses both sides. What a picturesque view! I wish I could once more discover this place by motorcycle, that would be a dream come true.
Park your car outside and walk through the huge brick walls of the old castle! When entering, you will immediately notice the coat of arms of a noble family called Gherardesca, they owned the castle since the 13th century. This place was dominated by the Etruscan in the ancient times and it's famous for its old wine-making traditions. When you look around, you will see a tiny center full of typical stone houses and small taverns. In the shops you can taste local specialties and the best wine in the region, since consortium Bolgheri DOC guarantees the highest quality. The whole village is tiny indeed, but perfect for a hour program or a lunch break. We had a pleasant afternoon walk here and enjoyed the medieval atmosphere so much.
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April's chapter will be dedicated to the popular Tuscan towns: San Gimignano and Siena, with a short stop in the heart of the Chianti wine region. In May I'm showing yo what I discovered in the marvelous Cortona, where I also visited a winery and last but not least the Renaissance Florence.
For vibrant spring fashion trends, check out FASHION. Bring a touch of Tuscan charm to your very own home, get inspired at INTERIOR DESIGN!
Rocky cliffs - orange formations - azure sky. You will find a spiritual oasis in the middle of Arizona. If you like outdoor activities or just being close to the nature, you will fell in love with this place. Let me share with you my travel story!
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Have you ever heard of vortex? Sedona offers so much more than just the breathtaking nature, it's the center of energy, vortex means energy points, the New Age followers believe that the Earth is so alive and you will hear its heart beating at different places in the world. In Sedona you can feel this energy even more intense. Grab a map, go for hiking and listen to your inner voice! The energy points are marked with different signs. This place might be also well-known from the movies, its natural beauty and special Western - style inspired many producers, more than 100 movies were filmed here.
 Sign of energy point |  Hiking trail |
If you are ready for a vortex tour, you can either book a guided tour or just explore the region on your own. Get some help at the visitor center, Sedona is full of great activities. Have fun on two wheels, you can rent a bike at Absolute Bikes! A company called Thunder Sixty-Six offers vintage motorcycle sidecar tour, therefore you can admire the beauties at the fullest. Horse lovers have the chance to explore the region from the saddle at M Diamond Ranch.
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Since we are at a spiritual mecca, you will see people practicing yoga and meditation on the way. After a long day, when you were hiking at the rocks, nothing can beat a massage or a relaxing spa. The original inhabitants of the region were the Indians, the nomadic people harvested many kind of plants here and used them for healing. I've found a special resort where you can get treatments based on Native -American traditions. Mii Amo Resort is a luxurious place that offers all you need at the same time: accommodation, spa treatments, meditation and at the Café you can enjoy healthy meals made of fresh ingredients from their own garden. Pure bliss!
Hiking fun
I spend only three days here and I didn't stop hiking. Devil’s Bridge is an easy hike to the largest natural arch in the Sedona area, it’s definitely a must-see attraction. I would say it's a moderate level, the trail goes to the top of the arch. Go there right before sunset and you will be surrounded by the nature, enjoy the view in peace! Wear hiking boots and comfortable clothes, at some parts you need to climb. For dressing tips go HERE!
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Devil's Bridge
Sisters on the rock
Chapel of Holy Cross
This Catholic church is standing at a special place with nice surroundings. The church is actually built into the red cliff, amazing architecture inside - outside. It was built in 1956 and was considered to be a miracle of that time. You are welcomed to meditate, pray or even just visit it.
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Accommodation - Los Abrigados Resort
Since I own an RCI membership, it was easy for me to book Los Abrigados Resort, which was perfect for my stay. The whole place has a spanish atmosphere, the location is great, hidden from the main road but the center is an easy walk away. The pool was spacious and I'm sure you will leave the spa relaxed and rested.
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Sedona sunsets
There are so many fabulous viewpoints if it comes to sunset, the whole place comes alive, this is the most magical time in Sedona. I'm sharing with you some of my sunset photos. Colors of flame - wonderful surroundings! I hope you will get the chance to visit this place at least once in your life. Check out my Sedona inspired FASHION and HOME DECOR posts! Keep traveling and be active!
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Best start of the year: The winter months of 2019 will be dedicated to the USA national parks. Every time I'm traveling to America, I find beautiful places to discover. Here is a summary of three natural wonders I visited in the past: Grand Canyon, Death Valley and the Everglades. This issue will be dedicated to the various activities in the parks. All places have something unique and mysterious, follow my footsteps to America!
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Grand Canyon - the Nr1 beauty
Grand Canyon National Park is probably the most well-known one in the world. Incredible size and colorful formations, the walls are reflecting different shades of yellow, red and nude colors. Unbelievable sight all year-round. The canyon was carved by the Colorado river over many centuries and it's one of the most visited places in the USA. Generally on the canyon read my article HERE.
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A helicopter ride over the national park is a must-do activity in the region. Perfect for all ages, but even for a romantic moment. I chose the Sundance Helicopter services, I loved every minute of it: Pick-nick in the valley and amazing views. The region has so much to offer if it comes to programs, even if these activities are quite pricey, but one in a lifetime experience for sure.
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If you stay in Las Vegas, you have several options to visit the national park: Helicopter, bus or limousin ride. Horseshoe bend is very popular place located close to the town of Page in Arizona. 200 million years ago massive sand covered the whole region, which became petrified by the nature (water and minerals) and these are the stones we can admire today. There are so many specific tours featuring this sight. I've found many options HERE, it's good to book your tour in advance. Wear comfortable clothes, bring along hats and sunscreen. You will fully discover the Canyon, learn about geology and history. What a relaxing day surrounded by nature!
 Horseshoe Bend |  Antelope Canyon |
If you are up for more adventures, visit the region from a different perspective: river floating tours allow you to observe nature from the water. You can choose between half-day and full-day trips. The tour starts with a two-mile tunnel ride and lets you explore the Glen Canyon. You will hear stories about people who lived here and the Horseshoe Bend itself.
 Source: www.riveradventures.com |  Inside the Canyon |
Going for extreme? This rafting tour is something for you! The tour also includes hiking and sightseeing in the Grand Canyon. You will sleep in a camp at ancient Indian ruins, lunch and dinner is provided. This program is all about being close to nature for one day. A truly memorable experience for sure!
Death Valley National Park
This place is the land of extremes, how they call it: the hottest, the lowest and driest spot in the USA. This wild region includes deep canyons, rolling sand dunes and oases. From Las Vegas you can reach the park within a 2-hour-ride. Native people have been here since at least the end of the last Ice Age. Mining camps were created here. Today it's a national park visited by people all around the world.
How did it get their name from? It's referring to the Californian Gold Rush, when people wanted to cross the valley on their way to the gold fields. A group of pioneers were lost here in the winter of 1849, finally only one of the group died, the valley became their grave.
How did it get their name from? It's referring to the Californian Gold Rush, when people wanted to cross the valley on their way to the gold fields. A group of pioneers were lost here in the winter of 1849, finally only one of the group died, the valley became their grave.
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Are you staying here for a day or for a whole week? You can choose from different kind of activities. Check out the dunes tours HERE. You can also spend a full day trekking in the largest national park in the USA, highlighting the most spectacular sights in the region. For more tours go HERE. There are some different view points, where you can have a panoramic view, you can access most of these spots by car. I personally visited the Dante's view. Are you ready for some mysterious scene? There used to be communities in the region, that experienced a fall down quickly. These towns were build due to the mining business in the area, but as soon as the factories closed, the places became ghost towns. It's sad and moving indeed, when you're surrounded by the vestiges of abandoned homes. Book a Ghost town tour and feel the history!
 Town of Rhyolite |  Panamint City |
The whole place is full of surprises, precious nature, small oases and natural wonders. It feels like being on another planet. Let me know how you liked this national park and what activities did you try!
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Everglades National Park in Florida
The third park I visited and I was so fascinated about was definitely Everglades. Florida is a charming place already, but experiencing the tropical wilderness shows you a different face of the Orange County.
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The first place you should contact is the Ernest Coe Visitor Center, where you can book your tours and have an overview on the national park. Besides visiting the alligator farm, you can book an airboat trip. Even the kids will enjoy the tour. it's like a safari in the wilderness, join the alligator show and pet a baby animal! Special trips are offered like after the airboat ride you can actually swim with manatees. If you are looking for something more active, choose the walking tour, where you can explore the highlands of Big Cypress National Preserve or the wetlands of Everglades. The whole place has a special, mysterious atmosphere. Admire the nature, the wild life and free your mind!
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In February I'll take you to the Red Rocks in Sedona, another breathtaking place. Spring will be dedicated to some more lovely, romantic destinations. For comfortable winter outfits, follow my FASHION page. HERE are some ideas for creating relaxing, spa-like atmosphere at home. Make sure you follow my INSTAGRAM and FACEBOOK site!
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Hello Riga!
We arrived to Riga with friends on a cold, winter day, even though it was end of November, it felt like middle of January. First day we only had an evening in the city, a friend of mine suggested a place for dinner. It was a huge self- service restaurant, Lido Atputas Centrs, with a bar and a la carte part on different floors. The food was typical Latvian with lots of fish variations and some Russian influence with blini (pancakes) and borcs (Russian soup).
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The place is huge and it has a cute, authentic style. I loved the fact that you are able to see and actually choose what you want to eat. There is a wide selection on basically all kind of food.
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Accommodation
We chose to stay in the heart of the city, so we decided to book Hotel Roma. The location was perfect, the hotel rooms were nice, classy and clean, the only thing I would highlight as a negative fact: the rooms were noisy due to thin walls. If you are bothered by that, you better use earplugs. The breakfast room was spacious with a beautiful view and delicious food.
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City discovery
Next morning we were heading to the center. Everything was very close to our hotel, so it was only an easy walk. We visited the cathedral first. It's the biggest church from the medieval era and it's so impressive inside, outside. The cloister part was constructed in the 13th century, you can visit them both. I was fascinated by the colorful rose windows, special masterpieces of art. The whole church has a laid back, medieval atmosphere.
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Check out the pipe organ, which is the second largest one is Latvia. They organize organ concerts here regularly, the cathedral was designed to achieve acoustic excellence, very special indeed!
Our next stop was the House of Blackheads, a special landmark in Riga, which serves as an event center nowadays. The original house was built in the 14th century and it was used as a gathering point for young, unmarried businessmen, they used to call themselves Blackheads, this is where the name comes from. The house got totally destroyed during the second World War, but it got fully rebuilt. The facade reflects various architectural styles. I personally loved the atmosphere of this spacious square surrounded by history.
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The Central Market is a good 15 minute walk away from the center, it's one of Europe’s biggest markets and its pavilions used to house the giant zeppelin hangars, that were left behind by the German troops after World War I. The market has different sections and it offers an incredibly wide selection of fruits, vegetables, spices, meat. Visit the fish market and you will be amazed by the fresh catches of the day! Truly unique experience to get the vibes of local life.
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Before lunch we wanted to shortly visit one more famous sight called, Three Brothers, these are the oldest medieval houses in Riga. According to the legend the houses were built by three men from a family. I loved the gothic details, lovely scene! The old town offers some more special sights and great vibes, in case you have half an hour, go for walk and you will discover history.
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We chose a place for lunch in the center. The Restaurant Petergailis was cozy, traditional and the oven baked sea trout fillet was yummy. We also enjoyed a cup of mulled wine after strolling the streets all morning.
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After lunch it was time for some fashionable moments, I discovered that there is a Fashion Museum in Riga and it was only a block away from the restaurant. The museum was fashion heaven, it featured old clothes and accessories from the 19th- 20th century. It's like a walk in fashion history with interactive features and a surprise room, where different eras are performed with music and light effects. What kind of dresses were worn in the Opera? What did people wear at home at the countryside? Amazing materials, precious collection. If you are into fashion, go and discover this museum by yourself!
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We closed the day on the top of Riga, in the Skyline bar at the top of Radisson Blu Hotel. It's a luxurious bar with a wonderful view, cocktails, champagne and some snacks. It was a great chill out place after a long day.
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A day at the beach
Jurmala is the seaside playground close to Riga, which is the ultimate place to be during summer time, but I must say, it was pretty amazing this time of the year, too. I've never seen before sandy beach with snow and cold, but it had its own charm. I loved the architecture, cool, eclectic style, wooden holiday houses looked so nice in the snow. We had a walk at the beach and looked for a Café to hide away from the cold.
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36.Line Grill Restaurant was our choice for lunch. Extremely popular among locals, don't forget to book before you go! The view of the sea is precious, the place is really elegant and serves excellent food. Just look at the photos! Black mussels and Pavlova cake with berries and mascarpone cheese, pure bliss!
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Our flight was leaving next morning, we had our last night in Riga. We dropped by this American jazz bar called, Moonshine, which felt like being right in Las Vegas. Very American and cool!
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I definitely loved everything I experienced in Latvia. People were nice and welcoming, food was delicious. The whole city reminded me very much of Russia, due to historical reasons (being part of the Soviet Union), this kind of Russian style still shows on the city but in a good way. Hope you will ever have the chance to discover this special place! If you are getting ready for the fabulous Christmas parties and you are unsure about the dress codes, check out the FASHION site! How to set the holiday mood at home, HERE are my tips! Have a blessed Christmas and a joyful 2019!
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This is the last chapter of my Scandinavian trip. Autumn was unusually mild this year, we had lots of sunshine, that's what shows on the photos as well. After leaving Denmark, I had two more days in Sweden, before my flight was taking off to Budapest. I was so lucky with the weather, I took my time and discovered this lovely city step by step. Join me and I show you around in Malmö!
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Cozy, little hotel in the center
I didn't want to book something extremely fancy for two nights, I assumed, I wouldn't spend much time at the accommodation anyway. Scandic Malmö City Hotel was a great choice, nice, simple and clean rooms, great buffet breakfast and helpful staff - everything you need during a weekend stay.
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Afternoon walk - Discovery
I arrived on a sunny afternoon, I only wanted to have a walk and find a cool restaurant for dinner. Walking is the best way to discover a new place, it helps you to find your way and get around easily. While walking, you have the feeling that you belong there, you become part of the city. Malmö might be a big city, but it definitely has a cute, small town feeling.
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I passed by a little, hidden outside bar, called Lenoteca, so I dropped by for a drink. It very much looked like a local place. They had a great selection of wine. Cool place to chill!
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I love street art, I got excited when I discovered these beauties. In Budapest we have a lot of creative painted walls mainly concentrated in the Jewish district.
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Traditional and modern architecture
The World Maritime University's building is outstanding. You will recognize it immediately. It's offering postgraduate studies and it was founded by the International Maritime Organization, it's a specialized agency of the United Nations.
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The city scene is very changeable, I love how the modern buildings stand right next to the small, traditional ones, it gives an edgy, cool style to the whole place.
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Kungsparken - oasis in the city
It's a well-maintained, peaceful park. The best time to visit is the summer time, but even during autumn the park will show its different face and fall colors. There are cycling paths, canals and ponds, the place is inspired by the English gardens. I was blown away by the gorgeous, old windmill. Ideal place for strolling in the nature!
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The Little Square
Lilla Torg means little square, it's the busiest spot in the city full of restaurants and bars. You can enjoy your delicious dinner while you are surrounded by medieval architecture. The street is paved with natural stones. The square used to be the market place during the middle ages.
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I was fascinated by a beautiful building, it's outstanding, you will notice it immediately. Later on I read in an article, that this is Malmo’s finest preserved half-timbered building. Today it's home to the Form and Design Center. Visit the center to see free exhibitions of Scandinavian design and architecture.
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I chose a Scotch pub and hamburger for food. The restaurant is called Drumbar Lilla Torg. It was everything I needed after a long day: excellent service, delicious food and very kind staff. Make sure you visit the square: Colorful houses, smell of food, good vibes, you won't regret it!
Rent a boat experience
Next day the weather turned out to be quite nice, so we decided to rent a boat with friends and discover the canal by ourselves. We chose the self-serviced electrical boat rental, Book a boat, that works with a simple application. You do not need any extra certification to drive the boat, but only adult (from 18 year-old) can be the captain. Your booking will be finalized with your credit card number, it's a very safe system. We visited the canals and the harbor.
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It gives you a kind of freedom, that you are able to discover the city on your own. Having such a sunny, clear weather in autumn was a huge blessing.
Turning Torso - the highest building in Scandinavia
After the little cruising experience, I had a look at the one and only skyscraper in Malmö. It was built in 2005 and was carried out by a Spanish architect. Its twisted shape gives a modern edge to the whole building. World-class architecture indeed!
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Lunch at a local place
Restaurang Kajutan is a spot I've found by chance, when I was driving along the coast to have a closer look at the Oresund bridge. The place was full of locals, they offered menu and a wide variety of fish dishes, I chose herring with potatoes and cranberry jam. I loved eating outside, facing the little boats and enjoying the last rays of sunshine.
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Oresund bridge
The bridge is not far from the restaurant. It's a combined railway and motorway structure between Sweden and Denmark. It's nearly 8 kilometers long, right now it's the longest combined bridge in Europe. The idea of creating such a construction popped up before the second world war already, but finally the bridge was built in 1999 only. It's a special feeling to cross the bridge, the view is pretty amazing from there.
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Now that we are at the Oresund bridge, we can cross it, arrive to Denmark and start the whole trip from the beginning, since I started my fall blog posts in Copenhagen. Hope you enjoyed this Scandinavian round trip with me. Check out sporty and trendy outfits for your fall getaway HERE: flat shoes, practical bags, evening outfits, suitcases and so much more. For Swedish interior design ideas and functional, creative solutions at home, go HERE.
After my pleasant visit in Copenhagen, I was eager to discover the countryside as well. I heard so much of the untouchable landscape and peaceful scenes, I wanted to see it by myself. Right after leaving the capital, cozy, little weekend houses were on my way, and again, I couldn't complain, it was such a beautiful, sunny day. Sweet escape!
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Danish castles are like being in a fairy-tale, Kronborg Castle in the North is not far away from Copenhagen, definitely worth a visit. It took me about 1 hour to get there. Kronborg is a Renaissance styled castle and fortress located at a strategic position, it was built in the 15th century, today it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The coast of Sweden is visible from here, it's about 5 km far from the town of Helsingor.
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My first impression was that the place is huge and it's beautifully decorated. I was heading to the main rooms, as you can explore the original design, it feels like being back in time. Shakespeare was so inspired by the impressive banquets held here, that his famous drama, Hamlet takes place in this castle, so you can actually walk in Hamlet's footsteps. Hamlet actually moved into the castle this summer, as interactive games and theater was organized on spot.
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My favorite part was the room with tapestries and the grand ballroom. Mythology and legends appear on the silk carpets, these are real masterpieces and very expensive ones. Only a very few carpets survived from that era.
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The ballroom is the largest one in Northern Europe. The wood carvings, the paintings and the large chandelier really takes us back to the time, when the most famous balls were organized in the country. Unfortunately due to fire, we will never be able to see the room in its original glamour.
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The chapel is one of the oldest parts of the castle, it's not particularly big, but richly decorated. You will see an impressive organ in the back.
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The view from the flag bastion was breathtaking. Strolling up on little stairs pays off when you finally reach the top and see the view.
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Finally I was visiting the underneath passages, the so called casemate, pretty cold and damp place but it served as protection and saved many lives while there was a war outside. Truly mysterious!
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However the destination of that day was originally the Kronborg castle, to be honest, I went with the flow and stopped every time I saw something interesting on the way. This is how I've found the pretty harbor, which looked like a local place with cute little bars and restaurants. After visiting the castle, it was time for lunch!
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This little Cafe in Hornbaek offers a wide selection of fish dishes all year-round: home-made crab salad, smoked salmon, various salads. I chose fish ball with potato salad. The place was calm, you could enjoy your lunch with sea breeze, while seating outside and facing the harbor. Once you are in Denmark, add the Fish Shop in Hornbeak to your agenda!
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The beach near the harbor was so peaceful, literally nobody was there, I couldn't miss the opportunity of sweet relaxation and walking for a short hour. The beach and the sea was tidy and windy, I enjoyed my escape so much. Check out my shots at the beach:
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After this beautiful day in Denmark, I was ready to catch the ferry and finish my day in Sweden. The ferry ride was really short, the ship itself was modern and neat.
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Inside the ferry
Join me for the last issue of autumn season in November, when I'll reveal the last two days of my round trip in Sweden. For nature inspired, autumn outfits check out my FASHION site, if you are more into interior design, I brought you new home design ideas in a minimalist, Scandinavian style under the INTERIOR DESIGN section. Enjoy the articles as much as I enjoyed writing them for you!
When I left the hot summer behind me in Hungary, I didn't really know what to expect in Denmark. I was lucky enough to have lots of sunshine, a mild temperature and light wind, however weather is changing here so fast, always keep your umbrella close! Copenhagen was a peaceful, charming city at the first sight. As I arrived with my friends late afternoon, we were heading to the old wharf immediately.
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Nyhavn - the iconic place
It's a pleasant waterfront area with fancy restaurants and bars. The pearl of the city is definitely Nyhavn, which means "little harbor". It wasn't always so luxurious, it used to be the dodgy district of the city centuries ago. The brightly colored houses, the cute little boats and the smell of delicious food set the mood already and I started to get the atmosphere of the place.
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We chose a restaurant called Skipperkroen for dinner. I had smoked salmon with avocado and black mussels with salad. Danish people love bread and butter, they have it with everything. Besides that, being close to the sea offers you the opportunity of eating lots of fresh seafood, so I took advantage of that.
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Bicycle day
The easiest and cheapest way to discover the city is by renting a bike (and a raincoat). In Nyhavn there is a place at the corner. Book online in advance, it makes things a lot more easier.
Amalienborg Palace
I have no idea when was the last time that I was cycling, but it felt great, I had so much fun! In order to taste the royal history, our first stop was at the Amalienborg Palace. Just like in London, you can see the changing of guards here. Inside the museum you can explore the past of the royal family.
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Saint Alban's Church
After the Royal experience, we shortly stopped at the British gothic styled St. Alban's church. It's located right next to the Citadel Kastellet, which used to be a military barrack with offices and ramparts, today it's open for public. At this point, the weather turned so cloudy, I just hoped it wouldn't rain. Thank God, half an our later we had beautiful sunshine again.
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The Little Mermaid - romantic sight
When you are in Copenhagen, you can't miss the emblematic sight, The Little Mermaid of course. It's not far from the Citadel. The figure was inspired by Andersen's fairy tale and it was a gift from a Danish brewer. The women is shaped after a ballerina, it's a small statue in the harbor. You can have beautiful shot, but be aware of the fact, that in the reality there is always a crowd around.
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We had a short break at the harbor, than the next stop was the food market.
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Culinary Heaven - Food market Torvehallerne
If someone tells be in advance, that Copenhagen is the ultimate culinary Mecca, I probably wouldn't believe it, but the city proved it several times, that there are lots of nice places to eat out. There is the food market in the center, the best place for lunch. wide selection of food stalls: fresh meat, sandwiches, fruit and vegetable, seafood, salad. I tried the traditional Flodeboller, it's a chocolate- coated marshmallow cake, very sweet, the foam inside is nice and firm . What a gourmet place!
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Christiania - the alternative Freetown
Before reaching the hippy land, we visited the Opera house from outside. The building is one of the most modern Opera houses in the world, it was also very expensive to build it.
 Opera |  Cycling at the canals |
I'm not a hippy kind of person, still I thought it would be interesting to see the district, that illegally occupied by the hippy community. It's the land of freedom - they say, on the street you can smell joint and buy light drugs. Well, I'm not up for these kind of things... The island rather seemed to me like a ghetto. I guess It's more for liberal, open minded spirits. Camera is not allowed, still I managed to do a few pics. Go there and decide on your own, you like the atmosphere or not! Entrance is free.
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Street food
Before crossing the inner harbor bridge, the so called "kissing bridge", we've found this amazing food corner with stalls and street food stands. We shared a pizza and had a glass of wine. The atmosphere was laid back and cool, the weather was just perfect.
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Strolling through the canals by boat
Anywhere in the world if there is a chance to do a boat trip, you can count on me. Observing the city from the water is always a different kind of experience, not to mention, that it's also very relaxing. The boat is departing from the picturesque harbor, Nyhavn and the tour lasts about an hour. Our guide was really nice and she explained us about the city, showed us where the famous fairytale writer, Anderson's house used to be. We could observe the military base from outside and the Opera House once again. The best part was crossing the canals in Christianshavn neighborhood, where you can even see floating houses. All in all it's a great program, highly recommended!
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 Floating house |  Borsen - Stock Exchange |
Accommodation - Design hotel
We chose to stay at the Hotel Bella Sky, which was recommended by a good friend of us, Zsolt. It's a nice, 4-star hotel 4 metro stops away from the center. The lobby is bright and spacious, the rooms are ultra modern and neat, I loved the view.
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The breakfast is pretty amazing here, their cappuccino is beating the Italian standard. The best start of the day!
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My favorite place at the hotel was the Basalt Bar, which also offers street food till 10 pm, all variety of cocktails, beer and wine. The whole place has a cool atmosphere, great meeting point after a long, tiring day.
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We came to the end of my Moroccan trip, in this issue I'm sharing with you my tips and experiences at the waterfalls and in Marrakech. After leaving Fez, I stopped at a special place for one night. It took me for a while to get to Ouzoud waterfalls, but it was definitely worth the effort.
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Ouzoud Waterfalls - natural wonder
I passed by authentic, little villages and wonderful panorama while driving to the waterfalls. Nature is changeable and pretty amazing!
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There are two ways to access the falls, in both cases you need to climb stairs, you will be walking on shaded path of olive trees, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. It's amazing how the 110 meter waterfalls plunged down from the rocks, this is the tallest falls in North-Africa. I spent one night at the village, so I could observe the natural beauty from different viewpoints. The area is full of monkeys, it's always nice to see animals in the wild.
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The accommodation, Kasba Oum Hani d'Ouzoud was the best during my stay in Morocco, very clean, kind of European style with some Moroccan design. I also ordered dinner there in the evening, I never thought, that goat tagine would ever be my favorite. The beautiful sunset at the end of the day was truly a gift.
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Marrakech - the city that never sleeps
Even though we call New York, the city, that never sleeps, I pretty much had the same experience in the dazzling, crazy Marrakech. However it all seemed to be like a tourist trap from the first day. In Marrakech tourism is blooming, they profit a lot from it and they are not shy if it comes to prices. When I was lost in the Medina, they charged me a lot to show the way around. People were really helpful, unless you pay double or even triple price than the locals. This is something I never experienced in Fez or at other parts during my stay.
Sightseeing - Yves Saint Lauren house and museum
There are the typical sights, that all tourist are eager to visit, so be prepared for crowds everywhere. The first day I was heading to Yves Saint Laurent's house and the museum. Jardin Majorelle is a beautifully maintained garden, like a nice oasis in the middle of the desert, yellow and blue colors are dominating. The designer lived here for a many years, he was very much inspired by the Moroccan lifestyle and traditions. The museum next to his house presents his works from the early ages. It's an impressive collection, worth visiting! Please note, that you are not allowed to take photos and be prepared to queue!
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 YSL house and garden |  Museum - photo by Harpers Bazaar |
Bahia Palace
It's highly recommended to visit one of the palaces in the city, just to get a sense of Moroccan architecture. Bahia palace was built in the 19th century, it captures the beauties of Islamic arts with its mosaics, tiles and colors. Bahia means brilliance, the name is already showing it's uniqueness, it definitely has a nice atmosphere. Inside you will see beautiful rooms without furniture, but each room has a different design, a nice garden with fountains. Perfect for a one-hour program!
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Koutoubia Mosque and the main square
It's a popular landmark, the mosque might be familiar to you even from postcards. The original building, that used to stand here was not oriented towards Mecca, so it was rebuilt afterwards. The sight of the building is impressive. Next to it the famous main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa is located. During daytime it's occupied by water sellers and traders, in the evening barbecue smoke fills the air, the square transforms into craziness: snake charmers, belly dancers appear, ladies will make henna for you. You will only enjoy this place if you don't mind crowds.
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The main square
Souk
It's a lovely, colorful souk, you can really buy everything here from food to bags, carpets, all kind of goods. Merchants expect a negotiation, so stick to that and never pay the first price offered!
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Accommodation - Equity Point
The hostel is located in the heart of the Medina, very close to the main square. I booked a room with en-suite bathroom, the room was very simple and had no windows. The common areas, like the rooftop and the pool was spacious though and was a perfect spot for relaxation. In Marrakech everything is more pricey than at other places.
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Restaurants in the old town
While walking in the center, I've found this lovely, brand-new restaurant for a light lunch. I chose vegetarian bourekas, a baked and stuffed pastry filled with vegetables and hinted with sugar. The place was nice and neat, a quiet oasis in the middle of a busy city.
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Cafe Arabe
For dinner, I chose a fancy restaurant close to my accommodation. It was nicely designed and alcoholic drinks like a wide selection of wine was available too, which is unique, you can't expect that at all restaurants in Morocco.
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I'm closing the Marrakech section with some lovely panorama photos. Roof-topping is something you should definitely try!
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Agadir beach
On my last day I was driving to Agadir. Before boarding the plane back to Budapest, I had a pleasant walk on the beach. The sea was beautiful but the weather was very windy. All in all I enjoyed my time in Morocco, I visited everything I could during a week. If I ever go back, I'm planning to explore the desert and the blue city, Chefchaouen. For Marrakech inspired FASHION items and HOME DESIGN ideas, visit my page!
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