Norwegian Epic Rome to Rome, Mykonos, Athens, Santorini, Olympia, Messina, Naples, Florence, Rome September 21- October 2
- Mary Palmer
- Jun 30
- 15 min read
Saturday September 20 LAX to Rome
Sunday, September 21 2025 Rome, Italy
Hotel Option Rome Marriott Park Hotel $100 EUR or Sheraton Rome Parco de' Medici $83EUR early checkin
Airport Transfer TBD
She Ventures in Rome: Hidden Gems, Cafés & Wine from Sheraton Parco de’ Medici
Start Point: Sheraton Rome Parco de’ Medici Timeframe: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PMStyle: Relaxed elegance, hidden corners of Rome, wine, walking, and wellness
9:00 AM – Depart Hotel for Trastevere
Take a pre-arranged taxi or ride-share (~30 mins to Trastevere)
Optional: Hotel shuttle to nearest metro stop + Metro B to Piramide, then tram to Trastevere
9:30 AM – Soulful Start in Trastevere
Stop at: Caffè Settimiano or Maritozzo Rosso
Enjoy a slow cappuccino and maritozzo (a Roman cream bun!)
Sit under the morning light near Ponte Sisto, watching the city come alive
10:15 AM – Explore Authentic Rome in Trastevere
Visit Basilica di Santa Maria in Trastevere – one of Rome’s oldest and most peaceful churches
Wander charming alleys like Via della Lungaretta and Via della Scala
Optional: Walk up to Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) for panoramic views
12:00 PM – Lunch & Wine at a Hidden Enoteca
Stop at: Enoteca Ferrara or Ai Bozzi da Giovanni
Dine al fresco with a glass of Frascati or Cesanese
Try Roman classics like cacio e pepe, carciofi alla romana, or a burrata salad
1:30 PM – Boutique Browsing in Monti or Campo de’ Fiori
Head by taxi or tram to either:
Option A – Monti District:
Stylish artisan shops on Via del Boschetto and Via Urbana
Visit Mio Concept Store or Le Gallinelle for local fashion
Option B – Campo de’ Fiori / Jewish Quarter:
Explore traditional bakeries, spice stalls, and small wine shops
Visit Pasticceria Boccione for Roman-Jewish sweets
3:30 PM – Afternoon Wine Tasting Stop
Stop at: Il Goccetto (near Campo de’ Fiori) or Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina
Sample a curated flight of regional wines with a small plate of olives, cheese, and salumi
Quiet ambiance perfect for a relaxing, reflective pause
4:30 PM – Dolce Stop at Giolitti or La Casa del Caffè Tazza d’Oro
Walk toward the Pantheon area
Order gelato (try pistachio or nocciola) or enjoy a final espresso in Roman café tradition
5:30 PM – Return to Sheraton Rome Parco de’ Medici
Grab a taxi or pre-arranged ride-share from the Pantheon or Piazza Venezia area
Return to hotel by 6:30 PM for a rest before dinner or spa time
Optional Enhancements:
Add a 60-minute spa or aperitivo at the hotel to unwind
Book a private photographer to capture your day among Roman backstreets
Request dining reservations in Monti or Trastevere for dinner if extending your day
Travel Notes:
Comfortable shoes are essential
Bring euros for boutique shops and cafés
Avoid peak crowd areas by sticking to Trastevere, Monti, and hidden wine bars
Book wine tasting reservations in advance for Roscioli or Ferrara
Tuesday, September 23. At Sea
Wednesday, September 24 Mykonos, Greece 1:00PM to 10:00PM
Mykonos After 1: A Self-Guided Tour of Cafés, Culture & Wine
1:00 PM – Welcome to the Afternoon: Seaside Café & Bites
Start at: Kazarma Restaurant (Old Port)Settle into this stylish café with harbor views and Mediterranean charm. Enjoy a long lunch with a chilled glass of Assyrtiko or rosé and local dishes like Mykonian kopanisti cheese, seafood pasta, or a refreshing Greek salad.
2:30 PM – Stroll Through Little Venice & Boutique Browsing
Wander along the narrow paths of Little Venice. Snap iconic photos of colorful balconies perched over the sea, and explore artisan shops and local boutiques like Mytho, Luisa Beach, or Dew for island-inspired accessories.
3:00 PM – Art & History Break
Optional Stop: Rarity Gallery – Contemporary art space showcasing local and international artists in a chic whitewashed setting.
Then head to the Panagia Paraportiani Church, one of the oldest and most iconic religious sites in Mykonos, with a serene presence perfect for quiet reflection and photos.
4:00 PM – Sweet Midday Indulgence
Stop at: Gioras Wood Oven BakeryTucked away in Mykonos Town, this historic bakery dates back to the 15th century. Grab a slice of baklava or a Greek coffee to recharge.
5:00 PM – Wine & Sunset Preparation
Taxi or Drive to: Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm (20 mins from town)Enjoy a guided wine tasting and light farm platter in the island’s countryside. Their organic wines and peaceful vineyard ambiance are perfect for a pre-sunset unwind. Try the red Mandilaria or the local white blend.
Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm open hours or book a tasting slot.
7:00 PM – Head Back to Town for Golden Hour Views
Return to Mykonos Town. Freshen up or browse for last-minute finds at boutiques as the light turns golden.
8:00 PM – Sunset Dinner & Wine Overlooking the Aegean
Dinner at: 180º Sunset Bar or Kastro’s Restaurant
180º Sunset Bar (Reservations required): Elevated cocktails, panoramic views, DJ sets, and a curated wine list.
Kastro’s: Cozy elegance with delicious fare right on the water. Ask for a seaside table and enjoy the crashing waves under flickering candlelight.
9:30 PM – One Last Toast
Walk along the harbor or stop by Negrita Bar or Scarpa for one final glass of Greek wine or a chilled ouzo to end the night in Mykonian style.
Thursday, September 25 Athens (Piraeus), Greece 7:00AM TO 6:00PM
She Ventures Self-Guided Tour: Athens in a Day – Culture, Cafés & Wine
Date: Any cruise day via PiraeusTime: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PMStyle: Soulful, stylish, and enriching for women travelers, solo explorers, or small groups
7:00 AM – Disembark at Piraeus & Travel to Athens
Walk or taxi to Piraeus metro station
Take the Green Line Metro (M1) to Monastiraki Station (~25–30 mins)
Arrive in the heart of Athens, where ancient ruins meet café culture
8:00 AM – Wake Up with a View & Greek Coffee
Stop at: Taf Coffee or Ergon House CaféEnjoy a strong freddo espresso or Greek coffee paired with koulouri (sesame bread ring). Ergon House also offers a stylish market space and rooftop views if you want a light breakfast with ambiance.
9:00 AM – Acropolis Adventure
Walk 10–15 minutes to the entrance of the Acropolis.
Open from 8:00 AM.
Buy tickets online in advance to skip the line (€20 standard or combined with other sites)
Explore the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Theater of DionysusTip: Bring water, a hat, and good walking shoes.
11:00 AM – Acropolis Museum (Optional & Air-Conditioned!)
Right across from the archaeological site. Stunning architecture, ancient artifacts, and rooftop café views of the Parthenon.
12:30 PM – Walk Through Plaka & Anafiotika
Stroll through the winding alleys of Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood. Stop in artisan shops, take photos in Anafiotika (the whitewashed village under the Acropolis), and enjoy the timeless vibe.
1:30 PM – Lunch & Wine in the Shadow of History
Lunch at: Oineas Restaurant (Psyrri District) or Strofi (with Acropolis view)Savor traditional dishes like moussaka, grilled octopus, or feta in phyllo with honey—paired with a crisp glass of Assyrtiko or Xinomavro red.
3:00 PM – Coffee & Sweets Break
Stop at: Little Kook Café – a whimsical fairytale café known for Instagram-worthy décor and delicious desserts. Or try Klea for a more soulful, minimalist coffee experience.
3:45 PM – Explore Syntagma & Watch the Changing of the Guard
Head to Syntagma Square to see the Evzones (Presidential Guards) in traditional attire outside the Parliament.
Optional nearby stop:
National Garden of Athens for a shady stroll
Zappeion Hall for architecture and calm
4:30 PM – Final Sips with a View
Stop at: 360 Cocktail Bar (Monastiraki rooftop)Enjoy one last toast—a glass of Greek wine or a creative cocktail with breathtaking views of the Acropolis at golden hour.
5:00 PM – Return to Piraeus Port
Walk back to Monastiraki Station
Take Metro Line 1 back to Piraeus (~30 min)
Allow time for walking and boarding buffer
Friday, September 26. Santorini, Greece 7:00AM to 4:00PM
She Ventures in Santorini: A Self-Guided Tour (7:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
7:00 AM – Disembark & Ride the Cable Car to Fira
Arrive at the Old Port (Skala).Take the cable car up to Fira (5–10 mins) – skip the donkey trail and enjoy the views!🎫 Tip: Bring a few euros in cash for cable car tickets.
7:30 AM – Wake-Up Café with a View
Stop at: Galini Café or Enigma Café (Fira)Sip a freddo cappuccino or Greek coffee with caldera views and a light bite like yogurt with honey or a spinach pie.
8:30 AM – Wander Fira’s Whitewashed Charm
Explore Fira’s narrow alleys and artisan shops
Snap photos of cliffside homes and blue-domed churches
Optional: Quick stop at the Museum of Prehistoric Thira
9:30 AM – Head to Oia (the most iconic village)
Take a pre-arranged taxi or shuttle to Oia (~30–40 min).Alternatively, catch a local bus from Fira's main station (budget-friendly but check times).
10:15 AM – Explore Oia’s Postcard Views
See the famous blue domes & pink bougainvillea
Stroll through marble streets, art galleries, and boutiques
Stop at Atlantis Books or enjoy Lolita’s Gelato
11:30 AM – Santorini Wine Tasting
Option 1 (Oia): Oia Vineyart – a cozy wine bistro featuring local varietals and Cycladic ambianceOption 2 (on the way back): Santo Wines – caldera views and wine flights (pre-booked tastings available)
Pair wine with a light meze platter if you’d like to make it lunch.
12:45 PM – Light Lunch with a View
Option in Oia: Oia Gefsis – Traditional Greek fare with sea viewsOption in Fira: Argo Restaurant – Elevated Mediterranean dishes and dreamy caldera backdrop
Be sure to allow travel time back to Fira if dining in Oia.
2:15 PM – Last Walk & Shopping in Fira
Browse for handmade jewelry, olive oil skincare, or a flowy Greek dress from local boutiques.
Optional stop: PK Cocktail Bar for a final espresso or mocktail overlooking the sea.
3:15 PM – Cable Car Down to Port
Head to the cable car station by 3:15–3:30 PM to avoid long lines
Allow at least 30–45 minutes buffer time for boarding your cruise
Tips for the Day:
Wear light layers & comfortable shoes (cobblestone streets + steps)
Sunscreen, hat & water are essentials
Book wine tastings or transfers in advance during peak season
Carry euros for small shops, taxis, and tips
Saturday, September 27 Olympia, (Katakolon), Greece 7:30PM to 4:30PM
She Ventures Self-Guided Tour: Olympia & Katakolon – Cafés, Wineries & Culture
Timeframe: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PMStart/End: Katakolon Cruise PortStyle: Easygoing, cultural, and flavorful – ideal for women travelers, couples, and small groups
7:30 AM – Disembark & Head to Olympia
Hire a private taxi (most convenient), shuttle, or rent a car
Drive time: ~35 minutes through olive groves and countryside
Optional: Use a shared shuttle service from the port (book in advance)
8:30 AM – Explore Ancient Olympia (1.5–2 hrs)
Walk through the birthplace of the Olympic Games:
See the Temple of Zeus, Temple of Hera, and the ancient stadium
Visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia to view statues and relics🎟️ Entry: €12 (combo ticket for site + museum)
10:30 AM – Mid-Morning Café Stop in Olympia Town
Stop at: Kafeneio to Spiti or Zorbas CaféEnjoy a freddo espresso, fresh orange juice, or Greek yogurt with honey. Relax under the shade and take in the peaceful village vibe.
11:30 AM – Wine Tasting at a Local Winery
Option 1: Mercouri Estate (15 min from Katakolon)
A stunning 150-year-old estate with vineyards and sea views
Taste local varietals like Refosco & Assyrtiko
Tour the small museum, stroll the gardens, and sample olive oil🕒 Open 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM (call ahead or reserve online)
Option 2: Olympia Land Winery (15 min from Olympia)
Family-run, warm hospitality
Taste wine and local delicacies (cheese, olives, bread)
Optional vineyard tour available🕒 Open most mornings—best to email ahead
1:00 PM – Light Lunch with a View
Lunch at: Taverna Orestis (Olympia) or Kastro Tavern (near port)
Savor moussaka, grilled halloumi, or village salad
Ask for a local white wine pairing
Enjoy a quiet terrace with olive trees and warm Greek hospitality
2:15 PM – Return to Katakolon & Explore the Village
Stroll the charming port town of Katakolon:
Browse local boutiques for handmade ceramics, jewelry, and olive oil products
Optional visit: Museum of Ancient Greek Technology – small but fascinating
3:00 PM – Seaside Café & Sweet Farewell
Stop at: Avra Café or Karousos Café-BarSip a frappe or ouzo with a view of the Ionian Sea. Enjoy a sweet treat like baklava or kataifi.
4:00 PM – Return to Ship
Allow time to stroll back to the cruise terminal (just a few minutes' walk from cafés and shops).
🌟 Tips:
Book your winery visit in advance (especially Mercouri Estate)
Taxis are plentiful at port, but private drivers can be reserved for half-day tours
Bring sunscreen, water, and cash (some shops may not accept cards)
Wear comfortable shoes for ancient site walking
Sunday, September 28 Messina (Sicily), Italy. 9:15AM to 6:00PM
She Ventures in Messina: Self-Guided Cafés, Culture & Wine Tour
Timeframe: 9:14 AM – 6:00 PMStart: Walkable from Messina Cruise TerminalStyle: Elegant, relaxed, locally immersive
9:14 AM – Begin at Piazza Duomo
Just a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal
Admire the Messina Cathedral, home to the world’s largest astronomical clock
Snap a photo at the ornate Fountain of Orion
10:00 AM – Morning Café Stop
Café: Bar Santoro or Bar Irrera 1910 (historic local favorite)
Order a cappuccino or almond granita with a fresh brioche or arancino
Soak up the elegant Sicilian café culture with sea breezes in the background
11:00 AM – Messina Cultural Highlights
Visit the Bell Tower Show at 12:00 PM (don’t miss the mechanical figures!)
Optional: Taxi or walk (25 mins) to the Museo Regionale di Messina to see Caravaggio’s The Adoration of the Shepherds
Or continue exploring the town’s Church of the Catalans, a hidden Norman-Byzantine gem
1:30 PM – Wine Tasting & Light Lunch
Option 1: Vineria San Martino
Boutique wine bar with local labels like Etna Rosso, Nerello Mascalese, and Grillo
Enjoy a light meze platter or small bites with your tasting flight
Option 2: Osteria Salumeria del Porto
A charming deli-style wine bar known for its platters and relaxed vibe
Ideal for tasting regional specialties with a glass of Malvasia delle Lipari
3:00 PM – Seaside Walk & Shopping
Stroll down Via Garibaldi toward the water
Browse boutiques and artisan shops for handmade ceramics, jewelry, or olive oil skincare
Optional detour to Passeggiata a Mare for sea views and people-watching
4:00 PM – Afternoon Dolce & Digestif
Stop at: Pasticceria Palumbo or Bar Noviziato
Treat yourself to cannoli, cassata siciliana, or a refreshing lemon granita
Pair with a sweet Sicilian dessert wine for a relaxing afternoon wind-down
5:00 PM – Final Views & Reflections
Head back toward Piazza Duomo or the harborfront promenade for one last scenic moment
Sit at a seaside bench or café and reflect on your Sicilian day
5:30 PM – Walk to Cruise Terminal / Hotel
Allow 15–30 minutes to walk or drive back depending on your exact location
Tips:
Book winery tastings ahead if you're on a tight schedule
Carry some euros for small purchases
Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones
Pack sunscreen and a scarf or hat for sun protection
Monday, September 29 Naples, Italy 6:30AM to 4:15PM
She Ventures Naples: A Self-Guided Tour of Cafés, Culture & Wine
Timeframe: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PMVibe: Authentic, scenic, flavorfulStart/End: Naples Cruise Terminal or Piazza Municipio
8:00 AM – Disembark & Start at Castel Nuovo
Walk from the cruise terminal to Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino) – just 5–10 minutes away. Snap photos of the fortress, then head toward Piazza del Plebiscito.
8:30 AM – Elegant Espresso & Pastry Moment
Stop at: Gran Caffè Gambrinus (near Piazza del Plebiscito)
Order a sfogliatella or babà al rum with a bold Neapolitan espresso
Enjoy the historic ambiance where writers and royals once gathered
9:15 AM – Walk & Wonder: Naples Old Town
Make your way to the Spaccanapoli area for a soulful stroll through the heart of the old city:
Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro)
Via San Gregorio Armeno – famous for nativity artisans
Optional: Visit the Chapel of Sansevero to see the Veiled Christ (book tickets in advance)
11:30 AM – Pizza Where It Was Born
Stop at: L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele or Sorbillo
Try an original Margherita DOP pizza
Pair with a glass of Falanghina (light, crisp local white wine)
12:45 PM – Wine Tasting or Aperitivo Vibes
Option 1: Enoteca Belledonne (Chiaia district – short cab ride or walk)
Enjoy a flight of Campanian wines (Greco di Tufo, Aglianico, etc.)
Pair with olives, bruschetta, or local cheese
Option 2: Barril – Stylish wine bar with a garden courtyard and extensive local selection
2:00 PM – Optional Leisure Time: Choose Your Path
Option A – Seaside Walk:
Stroll along Lungomare Caracciolo
Admire Castel dell’Ovo and views of Mt. Vesuvius
Option B – Boutique Shopping:
Browse Via Toledo or Galleria Umberto I
Pop into artisan shops for ceramics, limoncello, and leather goods
3:30 PM – Dolce Farewell
Stop at: Gay-Odin or Casa Infante
Treat yourself to gelato, torta caprese, or artisanal chocolate
Sip a final macchiato as you reflect on your day
4:00 PM – Return to Cruise Port
Allow 20–30 minutes to return to the terminal depending on your locationSnap one last photo of the Bay of Naples
Essentials to Know:
Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestones
Bring euros for small purchases
Book chapel or wine stops ahead in peak season
Naples is lively – leave buffer time for walking or taxis
Tuesday, September 30. Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy 9:00am to 8:30PM
She Ventures in Florence & Pisa: A Self-Guided Café, Culture & Wine Tour
Date: Tuesday, September 30Timeframe: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PMPort: Livorno, ItalyHighlights: Cafés with charm, Renaissance art, Tuscan wine, Leaning Tower photos, and soul-stirring views
9:00 AM – Disembark in Livorno & Head to Florence
Pre-book a private transfer, rental car, or train via Pisa Centrale to Florence Santa Maria Novella (SMN)
Train time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Car time: ~1 hour 20 minutes
Florence first is recommended for the full cultural experience and better timing with winery stops.
1:00 AM – Caffè Culture in Florence
Stop at: Ditta Artigianale (Via dei Neri) or Caffè Gilli (historic and glamorous)
Sip a cappuccino or espresso paired with a cornetto or pistachio pastry
Enjoy the buzzing, stylish morning scene
11:45 AM – Cultural Walk Through Florence
Admire the Duomo & Baptistery (free to view from outside)
Walk to Piazza della Signoria to see Palazzo Vecchio and Michelangelo’s David (replica)
Stroll across Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s iconic bridge of goldsmiths
Optional: Pop into Santa Croce Church or browse artisan leather and paper shops in the surrounding streets.
1:00 PM – Light Lunch with a Tuscan View
Option: La Prosciutteria Firenze – Casual, authentic platters of meats, cheeses, and rustic bread with a glass of Chianti or Vermentino.Or for elevated elegance: Trattoria Zà Zà (near Mercato Centrale)
2:15 PM – Tuscan Wine Tasting Experience
Option 1 – Stay in Florence:
Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina (near Pitti Palace) – Small, curated wine flights of rare Tuscan labels with expert guidance
Option 2 – Winery Visit (requires car or tour):
Tenuta di Capezzana or Fattoria San Michele a Torri – Countryside vineyards with tastings and views (~45 min drive from Florence; arrange transport)
4:30 PM – Depart Florence & Travel to Pisa
By train or car (~1 hour from Florence SMN to Pisa Centrale)
If short on time, prioritize Florence + wine, and do Pisa as a photo stop only
5:45 PM – Pisa Quick Stop: The Iconic Leaning Tower
From Pisa Centrale, it’s a 20-minute walk to Piazza dei Miracoli
Snap photos of the Leaning Tower, Duomo, and Baptistery
Optional: Grab a gelato from Gelateria De’ Coltelli nearby
6:30 PM – Return to Livorno Port
From Pisa, take a direct train or transfer to Livorno Centrale, then taxi to port
Allow a buffer of 60–90 minutes for travel + boarding time
8:30 PM – Back Onboard (Port Curfew Time)
Tips for the Day:
Book train tickets & transfers in advance (Trenitalia.com or driver services)
Wear comfy shoes – lots of walking on stone streets
Keep euros for small purchases & cafés
Bring a scarf or shawl if entering churches
Use Google Maps offline for walking and train times
Wednesday, October 1 Rome, Italy 6:15AM
Sheraton Rome Parco de' Medici $83EUR
She Ventures in Rome: Hidden Gems, Wine, & Stylish Streets – A Self-Guided Day
Date: Post-cruise day in RomeTimeframe: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PMStart: From Civitavecchia PortStyle: Quiet luxury, culture without crowds, and indulgent flavors
8:00 AM – Train to Rome from Civitavecchia
Take the regional train to Roma San Pietro or Trastevere Station (~70–80 min)
Pro tip: Aim for San Pietro if your first stop is a café near Gianicolo Hill
9:30 AM – Start with Coffee & City Views
Stop at: Caffè del Gianicolo (Panoramic terrace near Villa Doria Pamphili)
Sip cappuccino with a croissant and enjoy sweeping views over the rooftops of Rome
Perfect for peaceful journaling or a quiet start to your day
10:15 AM – Hidden Gardens & Hilltop Stroll
Visit Villa Doria Pamphili, one of Rome’s largest and most serene parks
Walk among fountains, citrus trees, and locals walking their dogs
Optional detour: Janiculum Hill (Gianicolo) for panoramic photos
11:30 AM – Cultural Immersion at Palazzo Barberini or MAXXI Museum
Option A: Palazzo Barberini – Elegant Baroque palace with Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini works in a peaceful settingOption B: MAXXI – Rome’s contemporary art museum (Zaha Hadid architecture), great for something fresh and modern
1:00 PM – Wine Lunch in Monti District
Stop at: Ai Tre Scalini – A cozy enoteca in Rome’s trendy Monti neighborhood
Try a glass of Cesanese or Frascati
Pair with Roman-style charcuterie, burrata, or pasta alla gricia
2:30 PM – Boutique Browsing & Artisan Finds
Explore Via del Boschetto and Via Urbana in Monti:
Discover small-batch perfumes, handmade jewelry, vintage Italian fashion, and concept stores like Mio Concept
Optional espresso break at La Casetta a Monti, a vine-covered Instagram gem
4:00 PM – Sweet Stop in Jewish Ghetto or Testaccio
Option A: Pasticceria Boccione – Famous bakery in the Jewish Quarter for Roman-Jewish sweetsOption B: Trapizzino Testaccio – Try a savory street-food “pizza pocket” with a glass of red or finish with a gelato from Giolitti Testaccio
5:00 PM – Return to Civitavecchia
Head to Roma Trastevere or Termini Station depending on your last stop
Catch the train no later than 5:15 PM–5:30 PM to allow time for port return
Bonus Tip:
Want to skip the trains? Consider a private Rome driver to chauffeur you through these lesser-known areas, especially if you're a small group or want a relaxed day with door-to-door service.
October 2 Depart Rome to LAX
Airport Transfer TBD
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