Best of Central & Eastern Europe (4 Star Hotels)

Best of Central & Eastern Europe (4 Star Hotels)

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15 Days From

$5066

$2786

Best of Central & Eastern Europe (4 Star Hotels)

15 Days Starting in Vienna, Austria and ending in Sofia, Bulgaria

Visiting: Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, Prague, Bucharest, Brasov, Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, Plovdiv, Sofia

Tour operator:

Travel Talk Tours

Tour code:

CEUT4

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

25 - 30

Physical rating:

Easy

Age range:

0-0

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $5066 $2786 Operator discount: -$2280 -45%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating 15-day journey through Central and Eastern Europe, exploring the rich history and vibrant cultures of iconic cities. Begin in Vienna, where imperial grandeur awaits, and continue to Salzburg and Munich, immersing yourself in the charm of the Austrian Alps and Bavarian traditions. Discover the medieval allure of Prague, with its fairy-tale architecture and historic landmarks. Fly to Bucharest to experience Romania's cultural richness, including the legendary Bran Castle in Transylvania. Traverse the picturesque landscapes of Bulgaria, visiting Plovdiv and Sofia, where ancient history meets modern vibrancy. Enjoy top-notch 4-star accommodations and the expertise of local guides, with ample leisure time to savor regional cuisine and explore hidden gems. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure through Europe's most enchanting destinations.

Highlights

  • Explore Prague's fairy-tale allure and soak in Bucharest's cultural richness.

  • Discover the imperial grandeur of Vienna with visits to Schonbrunn Palace and St. Stephen's Cathedral.

  • Embark on a scenic journey from Vienna to Salzburg, nestled amidst the breathtaking Austrian Alps.

  • Visit the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg for panoramic views of the Alpine panorama.

  • Experience the medieval charm of Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany.

  • Delve into the medieval charm of Prague's Old Town and explore the Prague Castle complex.

  • Discover the legendary Bran Castle, also known as the Castle of Count Dracula, in Transylvania.

  • Visit the salt mines of Turda and the fairytale-like town of Sibiu in Romania.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Vienna

Location: Vienna

Accommodation Name: Eventhotel Pyramide or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star

Greetings to Vienna, the capital city of Austria! Nestled along the banks of the majestic Danube River, this enchanting city seamlessly blends a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural splendor. As you arrive, join the welcome meeting at the hotel lobby at 6pm. Later on, you can get to know your fellow travelers in the optional group dinner. Or, immerse yourself in the lively nocturnal atmosphere of Vienna at your own pace

Day 2 : Vienna

Location: Vienna

Accommodation Name: Eventhotel Pyramide or Austria Trend Hotel Ananas - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a captivating sightseeing odyssey today, beginning with a scenic drive along the renowned Ringstrasse, where landmarks such as the Empress Maria Theresia Monument, Votive Church, City Hall, and Parliament grace your path. Stroll through the Hofburg courtyards, tracing the footsteps of history, until you reach the State Opera House. Marvel at the architectural magnificence that punctuates this iconic cityscape.Take a tour that unveils the grandeur of Schonbrunn Palace, once the opulent summer abode of the Habsburg emperors. Immerse yourself in the rich historical tapestry as you traverse through the ornate halls and lush gardens of this imperial residence. You can also join our optional guided tour to Danube Tower and Salzbergwerk Berchtesgaden Salt Mine, an underground marvel nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Uncover the secrets of this centuries-old salt mine as you traverse its subterranean chambers.

Day 3 : Vienna, Salzburg, Munich

Location: Salzburg

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Munchen Sud or Tulip Inn Munchen Messe - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a scenic journey from Vienna to Salzburg, a captivating city cradled amidst the breathtaking Austrian Alps. Take a guided tour through the highlights of Salzburg and acquaint yourself with the city's myriad attractions. Visit Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where classical beauty converges with manicured landscapes. Venture to the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, a medieval stronghold perched majestically on a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Alpine panorama. Visit the awe-inspiring Salzburg Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Delve into the Mozart Residence, the former home of the renowned composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, to gain insight into his life and musical genius. Later, we proceed towards the capital of Bavaria, Munich.

Day 4 : Munich

Location: Munich

Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Munchen Sud or Tulip Inn Munchecn Messe - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

We begin the day with an introductory stroll led by your group leader to discover key attractions like Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, and Viktualienmarkt. Marvel at the iconic Marienplatz, the city's vibrant central square, adorned with historical landmarks and surrounded by picturesque architecture. Explore the awe-inspiring Frauenkirche, a symbol of Munich's rich history and a testament to its resilience. For the rest of the day, enjoy free time at your own pace, or choose to engage in the optional excursion to the enchanting Linderhof Palace, a fairytale creation commissioned by the eccentric King Ludwig II, and Oberammergau, renowned for its celebrated passion play.At night, don't miss the opportunity to savor traditional Bavarian beer in one of Munich's beer halls.

Day 5 : Munich, Regensburg, Prague

Location: Prague

Accommodation Name: TBC

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a picturesque morning journey from Munich to the charming city of Regensburg in Germany. Take your time to leisurely explore the enchanting delights of Regensburg, situated along the scenic Danube River. Renowned as one of Germany's largest and impeccably preserved medieval cities, Regensburg holds the prestigious designation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Allow yourself to be captivated by the architectural marvels, including stunning churches and the one-of-a-kind medieval stone bridge that gracefully spans the majestic River Danube. Later on, ride to Prague and take a moment's rest to fuel up for a full day in Prague packed with popular sights.

Day 6 : Prague

Location: Prague

Accommodation Name: TBC

Meals Included: Breakfast

Embark on a captivating day in Prague with a guided walking tour leading you through the picturesque Lesser Town (Malá Strana), also known as the charming Little Quarter. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this historic area, characterized by ancient burgher houses and winding quaint side streets. As you traverse the iconic Charles Bridge, Europe's venerable stone bridge, marvel at the breathtaking views that unfold before you, leading you to the heart of Prague's medieval center, the Old Town.Delve into the medieval charm of Old Town as you explore its cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Square. Continue your journey into the Jewish Quarter, once the largest Jewish ghetto in Europe, where you'll encounter the elegant white stucco St. Nicholas Church, the renowned Astronomical Clock, and the historic Town Hall.In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour to the hilltop Prague Castle complex, the former regal residence of Bohemian kings. Discover the magnificence of St. Vitus Cathedral, the hallowed space where kings were crowned, and be treated to spectacular vistas offering panoramic views of the entire city below. This comprehensive exploration promises to unveil the rich tapestry of Prague's history, architecture, and cultural heritage.

Day 7 : Prague - Bucharest (By Flight)

Location: Bucharest

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Are you ready to say goodbye to Hungary and fly to Bucharest, Romania’s capital city. Upon arrival enjoy some free time to explore the city’s famous landmarks at your own leisure.

Day 8 : Bucharest City Tour

Location: Bucharest

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

After a hefty breakfast at the hotel, it's time to launch our discovery of the fascinating Romanian capital, Bucharest. Follow your guide as we visit unmissable landmarks of the city starting with the Revolution Square, Arc of Triumph and Romania Athenaem. Learn about the unique culture and vast history of the city as we continue to the famous Opera House, National Military Club, Dimitrie Gusti National Village and the Palace of Parliament, each building presents a different perspective to the Romanian culture and an artwork in itself. After some personal leisure time for you to explore this gorgeous city on your own terms, return to the hotel following a long day of discovery.

Day 9 : Bucharest – Sinaia – Bran - Brasov

Location: Brasov

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ambient – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today's the day we set course for the fascinating region of Transylvania. Drive through misty forests of lush green towards our first stop at Peles Castle in Sinaia, a beautiful neo-renaissance castle in the Carpathian mountains (Please note that it is not possible to visit inside of the castle). Just as we start to warm up to this unique atmosphere, goosebumps creep in... Prepare for the legendary Bran Castle, also known as the Castle of Count Dracula! This iconic sight is where legend and reality blend together to create the timeless stories of the vampires. Continue deep into Transylvania to Brasov, a fascinating town surrounded by medieval Saxon walls and embellished with gothic & baroque architecture. Starting with the cobble-stone Piata Sfatului (Council Square), visit famous landmarks as the Black Church and Muresenilor House Museum before checking into our hotel.

Day 10 : Brasov – Sighisoara – Targu Mures – Cluj Napoca

Location: Cluj-Napoca

Accommodation Name: Hotel River Park – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ready to follow the footsteps of Count Dracula? Our journey continues to Sighisoara after making a stop at the Clock Tower. Soak in marvellous views of Sighisoara Citadel, the Dominican Monastery, The Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal), and Dracula's House while listening to your guide about the colourful background of the town. Our next stop will be the unofficial capital of the Transylvania region, Cluj-Napoca! Tag along your tour leader for a sightseeing tour of the colourful town, visiting the Union Square, St. Mihail Church and Matthias Corvinus Monument. Then make way to our 4-star hotel following a long day of discovery with spare time to scroll through your photo reel.

Day 11 : Cluj Napoca - Salina Turda – Hunedeoara – Sibiu

Location: Sibiu

Accommodation Name: Hotel Golden Tulip Ana Tower – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast at the hotel, we depart for the salt mines of Turda. This fascinating geologic wonder first produced salt for the region in antique times and has been active since the 11th century! Continuing to Hunedeoara Castle, also known as the Corvin Castle, learn all about the vibrant history of the Transylvanian citadel from your guide. Our next stop will be the fairytale-like town of Sibiu. Relax at our comfortable 4-star hotel following a day filled with cultural adventure or start exploring Sibiu as you wish.

Day 12 : Sibiu – Bucharest

Location: Sibiu

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mercure Unirii - 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

We start our day with a walking tour of charming Sibiu. Presenting marvellous samples of Germanic architecture, Sibiu's legacy dates back to Saxxon settlers from the 12th century. Tag along your tour leader to view landmarks such as Brukenthal Palace, Piata Mare (city square), Lutheran Cathedral, Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. In the afternoon, we will be heading back to Bucharest for our overnight stay.

Day 13 : Bucharest - Plovdiv

Location: Plovdiv

Accommodation Name: Best Western Premier Plovdiv Hills – 4 Star

Meals Included: Breakfast

It's time to bid farewell to Romania as we embark our ride for Veliko Tarnavo, the City of the Tsars. The historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire displays the unique Bulgarian architecture from the medieval age. Uncover the vast history and gems including Tsareverts Fortress and the Holy Forty Martyrs Church before moving on to Plovdiv.

Day 14 : Plovdiv - Sofia

Location: Plovdiv

Accommodation Name: Novotel Sofia – 4 Star or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fill up at breakfast at the hotel as we prepare for a city tour of beautiful Plovdiv. Launching our tour at Old Plovdiv in Nebet Hill, visit the Balabanov and Georgi Mavridi House, witness the impressive St. Konstantin Church and Elena Church, and proceed to Roman Amphitheatre of Philippopolis and Stadium - some of the best-preserved samples of Roman architecture in the world. Then we continue to visit the Citadel Door, Castle Streets and St. Nedelya Church. Having explored the marvels of Plovdiv, we embark for Sofia! Upon arrival, discover the Bulgarian capital on a panoramic city tour covering all the unmissable sights of the city and learn about its rooted history.

Day 15 : Sofia

Location: Sofia

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, after a delicious breakfast at the hotel, your unforgettable Central & Eastern Europe tour comes to an end. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the magnificent Europe until next time!

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    4 Star Hotels

  • Meals

    14 Breakfasts

  • Transportation

    Air-conditioned coach or mini-bus

  • Tour Guiding

    Services of experienced Travel Talk local guides licenced by the Ministry of Tourism

  • Orientation Walks

    Organized orientation walks at the towns visited

  • Wifi

    Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access (where available)

What's Not Included

  • Any flights not mentioned above

  • Travel Insurance

  • Meals not stated above

  • Items of a personal nature

  • Tips and gestures

  • Entrance fees to the sights and museums

  • Optional activities

  • Other services not stated in the itinerary

Add Ons

Local Payment: £0

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with air-conditioned coaches or mini-buses, ensuring a seamless transition between cities, allowing you to absorb the unique essence of each destination without missing a single beat.

Accommodation

Enjoy top-notch 4-star accommodations throughout your journey, providing a comfortable and luxurious retreat at each stop, including renowned hotels like Best Western Plus, Arcotel Donauzentrum, and Hotel Mercure Unirii.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in 4-star hotels at each stop, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious retreat for travelers.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour includes 14 breakfasts as part of the package. Other meals are not included and will need to be arranged separately.

  • What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

    Transportation during the tour is provided by an air-conditioned coach or mini-bus, ensuring a comfortable journey between destinations.

  • Will there be a tour guide during the trip?

    Yes, the tour includes the services of experienced Travel Talk local guides who are licensed by the Ministry of Tourism.

  • Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?

    Complimentary hotel Wi-Fi access is available where possible, allowing you to stay connected during your stay.

  • Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour price?

    Entrance fees to sights and museums are not included in the tour price and will need to be paid separately.

  • What optional activities are available during the tour?

    Optional activities include a group dinner in Vienna, a tour of Schonbrunn Palace, a visit to the Danube Tower, a Medieval Dinner Show in Prague, and a Bavarian Night Dinner in Munich, among others.

  • Is travel insurance included in the tour package?

    Travel insurance is not included in the tour package and should be arranged separately by the traveler.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    There are always single travellers on our tours. If you don't mind being roomed with another single traveller of the same gender, then you do not need to pay a single supplement, however, this excludes all of our North American tours where the sharing option for a solo traveller is not available, and the single supplement must be applied if you are travelling alone. The single supplement is for travellers who would like to stay in a private room for the duration of the tour. PLEASE NOTE: The single private option is not always available, especially for sailing tours and camping.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Our tours are suitable for any traveller above 18 years old. The majority of Travel Talkers are from the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe, however we always have travellers from all over the world. What brings them together is a passion for travel, discovering authentic cultures and experiencing unique adventures with like-minded travellers.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travel Talk, we believe that travel is a force for good and show our support through various initiatives and charity organizations, as well as keeping the principals of responsible and sustainable travel at the core of our ethos. These values are engrained in our business culture and the design of our trips just the same. Together with our guests, we strive to make a positive impact on local p

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 20 years

Reviews of this operator

Jessie Mae Sia  

My travel talk experience was great and memorable

24-Feb-2021

My travel talk experience was awesome and fantastic. Me and my husband was on their Morocco and Turkey tours in 2019, they operated their tours in a culturally fun manner and the tour guides were very nice and very approachable. It exceeded our expection, we love to come back with them in our future travel. Thank you travel talk you made our 2019 as one of our memorable year!

Trustpilot
Jes Snowden (Google Reviewer)  

The Best of Turkey by...

10-Sep-2024

The Best of Turkey by Land was fantastic! If it’s a “tour” of Turkey you’re seeking, this one is the pick of them all. We travelled to the most spectacular locations, and experienced breathtaking moments and views, in every stop! Our tour guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and talked us through the history of the land. He was friendly and very patient, considering the hours he puts into his tours. Mus was able to swap the days activities for some days to ensure we were given the best opportunity for photo’s and leas tourists in other locations. Our bus drivers did an amazing job getting us to all locations safely! Thank you Ahmet & Ali, you are superstars… Highlights for us were Gallipoli, Ephesus, Pamukkale, Fethyie and hot air ballooning in Cappadocia. The group consisted of all ages, which worked out to be a good mix. The weather varied between 25 - 36 degrees throughout the trip, so be sure to pack the sunscreen and portable fan. Hotels varied, each one having it’s own idiosyncrasies, but overall very good. Some of the days were extremely long but we got through them.. I’d recommend this tour to anyone that wants a taste of the beautiful land that Turkey is ☺️

Courtney Godden (Google Reviewer)  

First time doing a tour...

28-Jul-2024

First time doing a tour overseas, wow what an amazing experience. Smaller tour group which was awesome, great hotel choices, professional transportation services and saw the best of Turkey in 12 days. Our tour guide Aykut's hospitality was second to none, he went above and beyond for every member of the group. His knowledge of his country's history and culture was outstanding and explained in a memorable way for a lasting memory. Aykut's has extensive experience as a tour guide and it shows in every way, many special tips from living/growing up in Turkey. Aykut's planning meant everything ran smoothly making our only job to turn up with your belongings and enjoy your experience. Thank you again Aykut for going the extra mile, making sure places had gluten free options for me and for all the funny jokes ☺️

elle mcdowell (Google Reviewer)  

We had an amazing time...

10-Jul-2024

We had an amazing time on our 12 day tour of Turkey! Our guide Yild was attentive, always was there to help us make the most of our trip and great fun! Would definitely recommend this tour to others!!

Samantha Treadwell (Google Reviewer)  

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I...

13-Aug-2024

Such an UNREAL EXPERIENCE! I cannot recommend the best of Turkey by Gulet for 12 day tour enough. On this tour we were able to see all parts of turkey from the coast line to the major cities and immerse ourselves in the culture and history! Mustafa is the best tour guide who priorities experiences, learning and safety of all tour participants (he also doubles as a comedian so ensures many laughs are had). From sailing on the Mediterranean Sea, experiencing the best food and culture in Istanbul, to paragliding over Pamukkale springs, and finally ticking off the bucket list moment of hot air ballooning over Cappadocia, this has been a trip not to forget. I cannot recommend this tour enough and would encourage anyone going to turkey to book this trip with Travel Talk!

Steph Burnettt (Google Reviewer)  

Thank you Mustafa & Travel...

06-Oct-2024

Thank you Mustafa & Travel Talk for an extraordinary 10 day trip of Turkey. A beautiful country indeed. We had a great time visiting all the sites. Mustafa’s sense of humour and abundance of knowledge made it all the more enjoyable. Definitely recommend this tour.

Victoria McCullough (Google Reviewer)  

I did the travel talk...

26-Aug-2024

I did the travel talk turkey tour with mus. He's an awesome guide full of local knowledge. There had been wild fires at Gallipoli so rearranged our itinerary to allow us a chance to visit which we did! I spent 3 days on the gulet and was a great way to relax. Would highly recommend the tour as a way to visit turkey and would do it again.

Leigh Anaru (Google Reviewer)  

Just finished the 10 day...

30-Apr-2024

Just finished the 10 day ANZAC tour in Türkiye. Wow what an experience! The tour although busy was jam packed with amazing experiences made all the more richer by our highly knowledgable and very funny guide Aykut. The bus was full of 44 Aussies and Kiwis which would've been no easy feat to control. Aykut and our drivers Naci and Sevki were kind and patient making our long drives enjoyable. Gallipoli was a bucket list of mine, and what a beautiful humbling experience it was, especially the following day tour of the cemeteries. Other than that highlight, the early morning hot air balloon and all the other sites the Kapadokya offers was pretty special too. I will be using Travel Talk again. 5 stars!

Bec Wood (Google Reviewer)  

We did the 11 Day...

26-Apr-2024

We did the 11 Day Anzac Tour of Turkey. It. Was. Phenomenal. My husband and I absolutely love Turkey and were excited to explore the country. Highlights were definitely the Hot Air Balloons in Cappadocia and the privilege of attending the Dawn Service at Anzac Cove. A bucket list item ticked off. This was my second Travel Talk in 2024 and I would absolutely do another one in the future. The tour was organised and our guide, Mustafa, was fantastic.

Scarlett Lily  

One of the best holidays I’ve had

25-Feb-2021

We went on a tour of the Balkans and it was above our expectations. Bojan was the best tour leader gave us so much information about the places we were visiting but also a great laugh! The tour ran so smoothly and was the perfect way to see the area in a little amount of time. It was one of the best holidays I have been on, I loved every minute of it and I can’t wait to book another tour with travel talk. They are great value for money!

Trustpilot

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$5066 $2786

Operator discount: -$2280

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$5066 $2786

Operator discount: -$2280

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 20, 2025 - May 04, 2025
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Operator discount: -$2345

Sunday - Sunday

May 11, 2025 - May 25, 2025
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Operator discount: -$2363

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Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025
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Operator discount: -$2363

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 22, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025
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Operator discount: -$2363

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 13, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025
$5226 $2874

Operator discount: -$2352

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 17, 2025
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Operator discount: -$2352

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 24, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025
$5226 $2874

Operator discount: -$2352

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$5598 $3079

Operator discount: -$2519

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
$5345 $2940

Operator discount: -$2405

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$5345 $2940

Operator discount: -$2405

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travel Talk Tours allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 61 days before the start of the tour.

  • Low Deposit

    Travel Talk Tours requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travel talk tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 85% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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