Who is the Travel Café Cape Town?

Hey you! The two of us are thrilled to welcome you to The Travel Café Cape Town, where we can help you experience Southern and Eastern Africa in the safest, most authentic and totally unforgettable way. We appreciate that travelling such a long way to our beautiful shores is a big deal for you, and might well be a once in a lifetime experience. And although the amazing diversity of Southern and Eastern Africa is one of its biggest draw-cards, planning a trip across such vast countries can be daunting. That’s why we want to help you get it right straightaway, so you get to squeeze every bit of goodness out of your trip (and return home with bags full of amazing memories and exotic experiences that will make your friends and family green with envy).


It probably won’t take you long to realise we’re not a massive faceless corporate travel agency located overseas. Not us. We’re two passionate pro-earth, vegan-friendly travellers who live locally in Cape Town, who are totally crazy about Africa, and who love nothing more than sharing our shores with fellow explorers. Our favourite type of travel is the kind that doesn’t just skim along the surface, but that really shows you a bit of the country’s soul, and gets you to truly connect with the land and its people.


Be sure to check our country overview and ask for a quote as we can help you get the most out of your African Adventure. Or better yet, drop us an email, call or WhatsApp us, and we’d be happy to help in any way we can. We can’t wait to welcome you to sunny South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Victoria Falls, Tanzania, Kenya and the Indian Ocean Islands and share our tips with you.


Until then, hamba kakuhle (“walk well”),


François + JD


François

Co-founder

Bonjour, I'm François and originally from France –in case you couldn’t tell from my name ;-) . Since I finished uni I’ve lived all over the world – Tennessee, London, Paris, Doha… But none of those come even close to the amazingness of Cape Town, my new hometown.


Thanks to an insatiable wanderlust I’ve also travelled all over the globe, at times spending months in one region to get to know it better. It has always been my dream to create a travel company that is run by travellers, for travellers. The Travel Café is that dream come true and I couldn’t be more proud of what we do. When I’m not working away at creating awesome travel experiences, you can find me hiking at our Eco Mountain Reserve Starry Starry Night or doing lengths in Sea Point’s stunning pool (definitely worth checking out!), running along the promenade or sea-kayaking in Three Anchor Bay.


My background is in the airline industry where I’ve headed up large e-commerce teams. That experience is coming in super handy to help you with booking flights, hotels and planning an unforgettable itinerary. So get in touch and let us help you have a magical time in the Mother City and the rest of South Africa.

JD Van Zyl

JD

Co-founder

Howzit! And thanks for checking out The Travel Café :) It makes me super happy to have a chance to share with you some of my favourite things to do, see and explore in a city and country that is so close to my heart. Before we launched The Travel Café I was working as a travel journalist, writing for publications like GQ, Men’s Health and MSN.com. When I’m not at The Travel Cafe HQ I’m probably somewhere taking aerial shots with my DJI drone, hiking in the mountains or checking out the city’s newest restaurant and bar offerings.


Like François there is nothing I love more than travelling, exploring different cultures and really getting under the skin of another country. Thanks to my career I’ve been fortunate enough to travel to 54 countries so far (not like I’m counting or anything :). But nowhere I’ve been can rival the uniqueness, diversity and magic of South Africa, a country I’ve criss-crossed many times over in search of great travel stories. Along the way I’ve uncovered scores of hidden gems, discovered spectacular places most tourists never even hear about and kept myself bang up to date with everything that is hip and happening in the Mother City, South Africa and the rest of the region. 


It gives me a huge kick to be able to share all of that with you here. So please have a look around, check out the guides we’ve put together for you with lots of love and care, and be sure to get in touch if you have any questions, requests or requirements so we can help make your trip to our sunny shores truly unforgettable.


Charlotte

Senior Travel Designer

Hi there, I’m Charlotte, originally from the Netherlands 🇳🇱. I’ve proudly called Cape Town home since 2021. What started as an adventure quickly turned into something more, and this beautiful city turly has a special place in my heart. I feel incredibly fortunate to live in a place where mountains and ocean meet, and I make the most of it. You’ll often find me surfing along the False Bay coast, hiking one of the many scenic trails, or pushing my limits during a CrossFit session. Being active and outdoors is a big part of who I am.

Tourism has been part of my journey since university, and over the years I’ve gained extensive experience in designing and curating unforgettable travel experiences. I’m passionate about Southern Africa and love sharing its diversity, beauty and unique stories with my guests. Creating tailor-made journeys that feel seamless, personal and truly special is what I enjoy most. Turning dream trips into reality is not just my job, it’s what inspires me every day.


Daniella

Junior Travel Designer

Hi, I’m Daniella! 🇨🇩✨ I’m originally from the DRC but grew up in beautiful Cape Town 🇿🇦, a city that completely stole my heart. Living here sparked my love for tourism and for showing people just how magical this place is. 


I’m passionate about traveling, meeting people from all over the world, and sharing Cape Town’s hidden gems, amazing views, and vibrant culture.


 I’m also multilingual and love learning new languages, which helps me connect with people from different backgrounds. When I’m not exploring the city or helping others experience it, you’ll probably find me hiking a mountain trail, swimming, or hitting the gym. For me, tourism is all about adventure, good vibes, and creating unforgettable memories together. 🌍🏞️



Amina e

Travel Cafe Coordinator

Hi, I’m Amina. Rooted in Congo and shaped by life in South Africa, I’m a polyglot with a goal of speaking 10 languages, and I have a deep love for the places I have not yet seen and people I have not yet met. I am deeply inspired by culture, food, and music, and I enjoy how each destination tells its own story through these elements. Outside of work, you’ll find me attending salsa dance classes, rollerskating, mixing music, or getting lost in a good book.


Behind the scenes, I play a hands on role in preparing our beautiful properties for guest arrivals and I enjoy bringing structure to fast-paced environments and making sure every detail comes together to create a seamless and memorable experience for guests.


The Travel Café Blog

by Francois Lebrun 18 July 2026
🇫🇷 Aujourd’hui, nous célébrons un homme qui a montré au monde que la compréhension est plus puissante que la division et que la compassion peut changer des vies. Au Travel Café, l’un des plus grands privilèges du voyage est de pouvoir entrer dans l’univers de quelqu’un d’autre : écouter, apprendre et remettre en question nos propres perspectives. Cet esprit de curiosité, d’empathie et de connexion humaine reflète les valeurs auxquelles Nelson Mandela a consacré sa vie. Si vous avez la chance d’être en Afrique du Sud, prenez un moment aujourd’hui pour explorer au‑delà des guides. Visitez une communauté locale, soutenez une petite entreprise, écoutez l’histoire de quelqu’un dont la vie a été façonnée par ce pays remarquable, ou offrez simplement un coup de main. Les expériences de voyage les plus marquantes ne se trouvent pas toujours dans les lieux célèbres, mais dans les liens humains authentiques. Comme Madiba l’a si bien dit : « Il est entre vos mains de créer un monde meilleur pour tous ceux qui y vivent. » Joyeux Mandela Day. 🇿🇦 Puissions‑nous laisser les lieux que nous visitons — et les personnes que nous rencontrons — un peu meilleurs que nous ne les avons trouvés. 🇬🇧 Today, we celebrate a man who showed the world that understanding is more powerful than division, and that compassion has the ability to change lives. At The Travel Café, one of the greatest privileges of travel is that it allows us to step into someone else’s world. To listen. To learn. To challenge our own perspectives. In many ways, that spirit of curiosity, empathy and human connection reflects the values that Nelson Mandela dedicated his life to. If you’re fortunate enough to be in South Africa, take a moment today to explore beyond the guidebooks. Visit a local community, support a small business, hear a story from someone whose life has been shaped by this remarkable country, or simply offer a helping hand. Sometimes the most meaningful travel experiences aren’t found at famous landmarks, but in genuine human connections. As Madiba famously said: “It is in your hands to make a better world for all who live in it.” Happy Mandela Day. 🇿🇦 May we all leave the places we visit—and the people we meet—a little better than we found them. #MandelaDay #Madiba #SouthAfrica #TravelCafe #MeaningfulTravel #TravelWithPurpose #ExploreToConnect
by Francois Lebrun 7 July 2026
🇫🇷 Il y a quelque chose de merveilleusement inattendu dans le fait de découvrir un petit bout de France au cœur de la Route des Vins. Chaque mois de juillet, Franschhoek célèbre son héritage huguenot français avec le Festival de la Bastille – une tradition qui remonte à plus de 300 ans, lorsque les colons français ont apporté dans cette magnifique vallée leur savoir-faire viticole, leur culture et leur artisanat. Même le nom Franschhoek, qui signifie « Coin Français », demeure un rappel durable de ces racines. Aujourd’hui, cet héritage se célèbre à travers des vins locaux d’exception, une cuisine de saison, de la musique live et une atmosphère festive qui s’accorde parfaitement aux vignobles et aux paysages montagneux. L’hiver est l’une de nos saisons préférées pour visiter la région, lorsque les matinées fraîches laissent place à de longs déjeuners près des cheminées crépitantes, accompagnés de verres de vins de classe mondiale. Si vous voyagez sur la Route des Vins les 11 et 12 juillet, le Festival de la Bastille est une merveilleuse façon de découvrir l’une des régions viticoles les plus emblématiques d’Afrique du Sud à travers son histoire, sa gastronomie et son hospitalité chaleureuse. ✨ Vous rêvez de visiter les Cape Winelands ? Parcourez le guide de destination du Travel Café ici : https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/fr/vignobles-du-cap  🇬🇧 There is something wonderfully unexpected about finding a little piece of France in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Every July, Franschhoek celebrates its French Huguenot heritage with the Bastille Festival – a tradition that dates back more than 300 years, when French settlers brought their winemaking knowledge, culture and craftsmanship to this beautiful valley. Even the name Franschhoek, meaning "French Corner", is a lasting reminder of those roots. Today, that heritage is celebrated with exceptional local wines, seasonal cuisine, live music and a festive atmosphere that feels perfectly at home among the vineyards and mountain scenery. Winter is one of our favourite times to visit, when crisp mornings give way to long lunches beside roaring fireplaces and glasses of world-class wine. If you're travelling through the Cape Winelands on 11 & 12 July, the Bastille Festival is a wonderful way to experience one of South Africa's most characterful wine regions through its history, food and warm hospitality. ✨Dreaming of visiting the Cape Winelands? Have a read through the Travel Café’s Destination guide here: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/cape-winelands #TheTravelCafe #Franschhoek #BastilleFestival #CapeWinelands #SouthAfrica #WineCountry #TravelInspiration
by Francois Lebrun 5 July 2026
🇫🇷 Safari peut être le titre principal. Mais c’est rarement toute l’histoire. Les histoires que l’on rapporte chez soi se trouvent souvent ailleurs. Elles se dévoilent autour d’un déjeuner qui s’éternise sous de vieux chênes dans les Cape Winelands. Autour de la chaleur d’un braai sud‑africain, où des inconnus deviennent rapidement des amis. Dans des quartiers colorés remplis de musique, de rires et de saveurs locales. Sur des plages tranquilles où la seule bande‑son est le rythme des vagues. Puis, au moment où l’on pense que la journée ne peut plus offrir davantage, la brousse africaine s’anime lorsque le soleil commence à se coucher. C’est ce que nous aimons le plus sur ce continent remarquable. Ce n’est pas une seule expérience inoubliable, mais une collection de moments qui s’assemblent pour raconter une histoire qui n’appartient qu’à lui. Au Travel Cafe Cape Town , nos voyages soigneusement conçus révèlent chaque facette de l’Afrique, de sa faune emblématique aux personnes, lieux et traditions qui la rendent véritablement inoubliable. ✨ Parce que les meilleurs voyages ne se contentent pas de vous montrer l’Afrique. Ils vous permettent de la vivre. 🌍 Découvrez notre collection de voyages africains: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/fr/home 🇬🇧 Safari may be the headline. But it's rarely the whole story. The stories people bring home are often found elsewhere. They unfold over a lingering lunch beneath ancient oak trees in the Cape Winelands. Around the warmth of a South African braai, where strangers quickly become friends. In colourful neighbourhoods filled with music, laughter and local flavours. On quiet beaches where the only soundtrack is the rhythm of the waves. Then, just when you think the day couldn't hold anything more, the African bush comes alive as the sun begins to set. That's what we love most about this remarkable continent. It's not one unforgettable experience, it's a collection of moments that come together to tell a story that's entirely its own. At The Travel Cafe Cape Town, our thoughtfully curated journeys are designed to reveal every side of Africa, from its iconic wildlife to the people, places and traditions that make it truly unforgettable. ✨ Because the best journeys don't just show you Africa. They help you experience it. 🌍Explore our collection of African journeys: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/ #TheTravelCafeCapeTown #AfricanTravel #BeyondTheSafari #CuratedJourneys #SouthAfrica #TravelWithPurpose #MeaningfulTravel
by Francois Lebrun 4 July 2026
🇫🇷 Certaines aventures deviennent encore plus mémorables lorsqu’elles sont partagées avec les personnes qui vous connaissent le mieux. Imaginez une famille réunie autour d’une table dans les vignobles du Cap, des amis observant des éléphants se rassembler près d’un point d’eau alors que le soleil commence à se coucher, ou trois générations debout ensemble à Cape Point, découvrant l’Afrique du Sud pour la toute première fois. Nos Essentiels de l'Afrique du Sud peuvent être réservés exclusivement pour votre propre groupe, vous offrant toute la simplicité d’un itinéraire accompagné par des professionnels, tout en voyageant avec les personnes que vous avez choisi d’avoir à vos côtés. Chaque séjour, chaque expérience et chaque étape ont déjà été soigneusement sélectionnés, vous évitant ainsi de devoir tout planifier depuis le début. Il vous suffit de réunir vos compagnons de voyage préférés et de laisser l’Afrique du Sud vous surprendre, ensemble. Qu’il s’agisse d’une célébration importante, d’une aventure en famille ou d’un voyage tant attendu entre amis, certaines histoires se vivent simplement mieux côte à côte. Qui figurerait sur votre liste d’invités ? ✨ Découvrez le voyage South Africa Essentials : https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/fr/afrique-du-sud-circuit-accompagne-francophone 🇬🇧 Some journeys are even more memorable when shared with the people who know you best. Picture a family gathered around a dinner table in the Cape Winelands, friends watching elephants gather at a waterhole as the sun begins to set, or three generations standing together at Cape Point, discovering South Africa for the very first time. Our South Africa Essentials journey can be reserved exclusively for your own group, giving you all the ease of a professionally hosted itinerary while travelling with the people you've chosen to share it with. Every stay, experience and route has already been thoughtfully curated, so there's no need to start planning from scratch. Simply gather your favourite travel companions and let South Africa surprise you, together. Whether it's a milestone celebration, a family adventure or a long-overdue trip with friends, some stories are simply better experienced side by side. Who would be on your guest list? ✨ Discover the South Africa Essentials journey: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/small-groups-accompanied-tours-south-africa #TheTravelCafeCapeTown #SouthAfricaEssentials #PrivateJourneys #TravelTogether #SouthAfricaTravel #CuratedJourneys
by Francois Lebrun 27 June 2026
🇫🇷 Saviez-vous que chaque hiver, les rues de Makhanda (anciennement Grahamstown) s’animent pour accueillir l’une des plus grandes célébrations d’art, de musique et de storytelling du continent africain ? Pendant dix jours, cette paisible ville universitaire se transforme en véritable capitale créative de l’Afrique du Sud. Flânez entre des productions théâtrales intimistes et des spectacles de rue hauts en couleur, découvrez des artistes émergents et laissez-vous porter par l’énergie contagieuse qui envahit les cafés, les galeries et les espaces publics. C’est le genre d’expérience qui nous rappelle que le voyage ne se résume pas aux paysages : il est aussi fait de rencontres, d’histoires et de créativité — tout ce qui donne vie à un lieu. Si vous cherchez une autre facette de l’Afrique du Sud, le National Arts Festival mérite vraiment une place sur votre liste d’envies. Avez-vous déjà vécu ce festival ? Partagez vos plus beaux souvenirs en commentaire, nous serions ravis de vous lire. ✨ Découvrez le programme de cette année : https://nationalartsfestival.co.za/  🇬🇧 Did you know that every winter, the streets of Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) come alive with one of Africa's biggest celebrations of art, music and storytelling?For ten days every winter, an otherwise quiet university town transforms into South Africa's creative capital. Wander from intimate theatre productions to colourful street performances, discover emerging artists, and soak up the infectious energy that spills into cafés, galleries and public spaces. It's the kind of experience that reminds us that travel isn't only about landscapes, it's also about the people, stories and creativity that bring a place to life. If you're looking for a different side of South Africa, the National Arts Festival is well worth adding to your travel wishlist. Have you experienced the festival before? We'd love to hear your favourite memories in the comments. ✨Explore this year's programme: https://nationalartsfestival.co.za/ #TravelCafe #NationalArtsFestival #Makhanda #ExploreSouthAfrica #EasternCape #DiscoverSouthAfrica #ResponsibleTravel
by Francois Lebrun 16 June 2026
Today, we celebrate the courage and resilience of South Africa's youth. 🇿🇦
by Francois Lebrun 14 June 2026
🇫🇷 Après les réveils à l’aube pour les safaris, les couchers de soleil aux couleurs chaudes de la savane et les rencontres animalières inoubliables, il y a quelque chose de magique dans le fait de terminer son voyage au bord de l’océan. Pas étonnant que la combinaison savane + plage reste l’un des itinéraires les plus prisés. Dès le mois de mai, Maurice et La Réunion glissent doucement vers leur saison sèche, offrant des températures plus douces, des journées ensoleillées, une humidité plus faible et certaines des meilleures conditions balnéaires de l’année. 💭 Imaginez : Eaux turquoise Les matins doux des îles Déjeuners de fruits de mer frais Paysages volcaniques Couchers de soleil qui font perdre toute notion du temps Maurice est réputée pour ses lagons cristallins et ses récifs coralliens, tandis que sa voisine La Réunion propose une expérience plus spectaculaire, entre montagnes luxuriantes, cascades et l’un des volcans les plus actifs au monde. La combinaison safari + évasion sur une île est devenue l’une de nos façons préférées de découvrir l’Afrique : l’aventure d’abord, le repos ensuite. Nous concevons des voyages sur mesure qui relient la savane à l’océan, pour un parcours harmonieux du premier au dernier jour. Et comme ces saisons deviennent de plus en plus prisées, c’est le moment idéal pour commencer à imaginer votre évasion 2027. ✨ Commencez à rêver ici : https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/fr/ile-maurice 🇬🇧 Safari… then this. 🌴 After early mornings on game drives, dusty safari sunsets, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, there’s something special about ending your journey beside the ocean. It is no surprise that a bush + beach combination remains one of the most popular travel itineraries. And from May onwards, Mauritius and Réunion begin slipping into their dry season, bringing cooler temperatures, sunny days, lower humidity and some of the best beach conditions of the year. 💭 Think: Turquoise water Slow island mornings Fresh seafood lunches Volcanic landscapes And sunsets that make you completely lose track of time Mauritius is famous for its crystal-clear lagoons and coral reefs, while neighbouring Réunion offers a more dramatic island experience with lush mountains, waterfalls and one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The combination of safari and island escape has become one of our favourite ways to experience Africa, adventure first, deep rest after. We create tailor-made journeys that flow seamlessly from bush to beach, making travel feel effortless from beginning to end. And because these seasons are becoming increasingly popular, now is the perfect time to begin planning your 2027 escape. ✨ Start dreaming here: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/mauritius #Mauritius #ReunionIsland #SafariAndBeach #LuxuryTravel #TheTravelCafe
by Francois Lebrun 10 June 2026
🇫🇷 Nous avons récemment reçu ce magnifique témoignage de voyageurs partis au Botswana avec leur famille réunissant trois générations, et il illustre à merveille pourquoi cette période de l’année est si spéciale pour découvrir l’Afrique. Avril et mai sont souvent considérés comme deux des meilleurs mois pour explorer des destinations comme le Botswana ou les Chutes Victoria. Les paysages sont luxuriants après la saison des pluies. L’observation de la faune est exceptionnelle. Les températures sont douces et agréables. Et de nombreux lodges proposent encore d’excellents tarifs de mi‑saison avant le début des prix hivernaux.  Pour cette famille, la véritable magie n’était pas seulement dans les safaris ou les excursions sur la rivière, mais dans ces moments humains et culturels qui ont donné un sens profond à leur aventure.Visiter des communautés locales, assister à un match de football, partager des histoires autour du feu, dormir à la belle étoile… autant de souvenirs qu’ils garderont toute leur vie. Nous croyons que les plus beaux voyages sont ceux qui sont personnels, fluides et profondément connectés aux lieux traversés. Et si voyager en Afrique durant cette magnifique saison intermédiaire fait partie de vos envies… c’est le moment idéal pour commencer à planifier l’année prochaine. 🌍 ✨ Contactez‑nous ici : https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/fr/contact 🇬🇧 We recently received this beautiful review from guests who travelled through Botswana with their family spanning three generations, and it perfectly captures why this time of year is so special for African travel. April and May are often considered some of the best months to experience destinations like Botswana and Victoria Falls. The landscapes are still lush after the rainy season. Wildlife viewing is incredible. Temperatures are mild and comfortable. And many lodges offer excellent mid-season value before peak winter rates begin. For this family, the magic wasn’t only in the game drives or river safaris, it was also in the meaningful cultural moments along the way. Visiting local communities, watching a football match, sharing stories around campfires, and sleeping beneath the stars became memories they’ll carry forever. We believe the best journeys are the ones that feel personal, seamless, and deeply connected to place. And if travelling through Africa during this beautiful in-between season is on your bucket list… now is the perfect time to start planning for next year. 🌍 ✨ Get in touch here: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/contact #BotswanaSafari #AfricanTravel #VictoriaFalls #LuxurySafari #TheTravelCafe
by Francois Lebrun 8 June 2026
🇫🇷 À cette période de l’année, on ne se contente pas de voir les chutes Victoria — on les ressent. 🌈 De mai à juillet, le fleuve Zambèze atteint son débit le plus spectaculaire, projetant des volumes d’eau impressionnants dans la gorge. Le grondement résonne dans tout le paysage, la brume s’élève comme une fumée, et le sol semble vibrer sous vos pieds. Des arcs‑en‑ciel se forment dans les embruns. Le rugissement traverse la forêt tropicale. Chaque point de vue paraît presque irréel. C’est à ce moment‑là que les chutes Victoria sont les plus puissantes : sauvages, immersives, inoubliables. En ce moment même, les voyageurs les découvrent en pleine puissance : baignés par la brume, survolant les chutes en hélicoptère, naviguant sur le Zambèze au coucher du soleil, et vivant l’un des plus grands spectacles naturels d’Afrique à son apogée.  Et si cela fait partie de votre bucket list… c’est le moment parfait pour organiser votre voyage pour l’an prochain. Au Travel Café, nous créons des voyages africains sur mesure, pensés autour d’expériences qui laissent une empreinte durable. ✨ En savoir plus sur les chutes Victoria: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/fr/les-chutes-victoria 🇬🇧 At this time of year you don’t simply see Victoria Falls, you feel it. 🌈 From May to July, the Zambezi River reaches its most dramatic flow, sending unimaginable volumes of water crashing into the gorge below. The roar echoes through the landscape, the mist rises like smoke into the sky, and the ground itself seems to tremble beneath your feet. Rainbows form through the spray. The roar echoes through the rainforest. And every viewpoint feels almost unreal. This is when Victoria Falls is at its most powerful. Wild, immersive, unforgettable. Right now, travellers are witnessing the falls in full flow, soaking up the mist, taking scenic helicopter flights, cruising the Zambezi at sunset, and experiencing one of Africa’s greatest wonders at its peak. And if this is going straight onto your bucket list… now is the perfect time to start planning for next year’s high water season. At The Travel Cafe, we create tailor-made African journeys designed around experiences that leave a lasting impact. ✨Discover more about Victoria Falls here: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/victoria-falls #VictoriaFalls #ZimbabweTravel #ZambiaTravel #AfricanAdventure #TheTravelCafe
by Francois Lebrun 5 June 2026
✨ Suite à l'incroyable succès de nos deux circuits de novembre 2026, déjà complets, nous avons décidé d'ouvrir un départ supplémentaire en octobre 2026 pour répondre aux nombreuses demandes.
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