DEPARTUREGUIDE
WELCOME
Hey sis!
We see you. How you show up and show out for everything and everybody. How you’re “that girl” in whatever room you walk in.
But what does a sophisticated, travel-loving woman of high standards and Black girl magic do when she needs to rest? She relies on Travel Divas!
Welcome to a safe space where you can be your authentically bougie and sophisticated self. Here, you’re celebrated for your love of upscale, 5-star experiences. You’re treated like the royalty you are.
See, when it comes to unforgettable trips fit for a Diva, you’re in the right place.
Here, you’ll discover world-class destinations, new and old, where you can rest your weary head and recharge your Black girl magic meter.
You’ll connect with like-minded, sophisticated women who love a good time they didn’t have to plan. Whose penchant for details is unmatched – except by us. Here, you’ll become a Travel Diva.
Where you embark on the most magical adventures and experience the best of the best.
Where your Blackness is celebrated, and your appreciation for the finer things in life is par for the course.
In this guide, we invite you to explore what being a Travel Diva actually looks like. We share thrilling ways to incorporate more travel, culture and magic into your everyday life.
Read on, and stay magical!
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3
YDocumentation Must-Dos
FOR A STRESS-FREE GETAWAY
ou've picked out your favorite getaway gear, your itinerary is set, and your dream vacation plans are in full force. Almost. Before you go wheels up, there are a few essential things you need to take care of first. Let's talk about legalities and documentation. Trust us, it's not as boring as it sounds.
+ PEEK AT YOUR PASSPORT
Pull out your passport now. Yes, NOW. Look, this little book is your key to unlocking new destinations and experiences, so you want to make sure it’s travel ready.
Always be sure to check the expiration date on your passport. While many travelers believe if it hasn’t expired, it’s all good – that’s NOT always true. Some countries require your passport be valid at least 6 months after your travel dates. And there are airlines that will stop you from boarding if this requirement isn’t met.
Translation: If your passport expires within 6 months of your return date, you’re cutting it too close. It’s time to renew! Passport processing times change throughout the year but renew at least 3 months before leaving for your trip to be safe.
Did you just receive your passport in the mail? Congratulations! Now, the last step to making your passport official is to sign the first page in blue or black ink using a ballpoint pen to keep it from smearing or damaging the passport pages.
+ VERIFY VISA REQUIREMENTS EARLY
U.S. citizens can travel to most European, Caribbean, South American countries, and other popular tourism destinations worldwide, without a visa.
While this is the general guideline, you should always check the visa requirements for your destination because visa rules can change. For example, the government of Brazil recently reinstated a visa requirement for all U.S. nationals visiting Brazil.
Before booking your destination, research the requirements using the U.S. State Department’s Learn About Your Destination search tool. Visa applications can take weeks, even months to process so this isn’t something you want to procrastinate on. We strongly recommend starting the visa application process about 3 months in advance of your intended travel date.
+ STEP FOR SAFETY
Turning up and living your best life abroad is all fun when you put safety first. And to do that, we’re calling on you to STEP in the name of safety. STEP stands for Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and it’s like having a BFF for international travel.
It’s a free service that sends you email alerts from the local embassy or consulate. If there’s an emergency where you are, STEP helps keep you aware and provides instructions so you can return home safely.
After signing up for STEP online, you’ll receive important updates from the embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, leaving you knowledgeable enough to make informed decisions about your travel plans.
Once you’re registered, it’ll also make it easier for the U.S. Embassy and even family and friends to reach you in an emergency – be it a natural disaster, civil unrest or family issue.
And that's the tea on legalities and documentation! We know it's not the fun part of trip planning but trust us, taking care of these essential details now will save stress and hassle later.
By making sure your passport is valid, securing any necessary visas and enrolling in the STEP Program, you'll be setting yourself up for a smooth, carefree getaway. And that’s really what it’s all about!
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HAPPY Anniversary!
ESSENTIAL
Financial & Communication Tips
TO AVOID DERAILING YOUR DREAM VACATION
You’ve packed your bags and confirmed your passport and visa requirements, but there’s a few vital steps you may have missed. That’s notifying your financial institutions and communications providers about your travel plans. Plus, preparing for currency exchange and hotel incidentals.
+ GIVE YOUR BANK A HEADS UP + STAY CONNECTED ABROAD WITH SIM CARDS
While your bank will do everything possible to protect you from identity theft, your bank could leave you unable to access your money while traveling. If they spot transactions in unfamiliar locations, your bank may assume your card is being used fraudulently and shut it off.
When you notify your bank about your travel plans, they notate your account and share it with the fraud detection team to prevent triggering a block on your card while traveling.
How to notify your bank may vary depending on your financial institution. If you’re already registered for your institution’s online banking program, you should be able to complete an online travel notice easily. If you don’t use online banking, call your bank to set up a travel alert on your account.
You’ll want to let your bank know where you’ll be traveling, your departure and return dates, and your most up-to-date phone number.
From using international cell phone plans to getting a local SIM or eSIM card, you have many options to stay connected while traveling abroad. The right solution will depend on where you’re going and how much data you plan to use. If you just want basic data to read emails and search online, checking with your local cell phone provider may be an economical option.
However, if you need high-speed data, you’ll want to explore SIM or eSIM card options. Depending on your destination, a local SIM or eSIM card could be the most affordable choice for making local calls.
You see, eSim cards allow you to get a local number without having to search for a SIM card in your destination. Rather than getting a local SIM card, you can buy and download an eSIM card on your phone to connect to cell networks and get data while overseas.
+ MOVE SMART WITH CURRENCY EXCHANGES
A smart way to save while traveling internationally is to research currency exchange rates so you can avoid paying more fees than necessary.
To help keep more money in your pocket, so you have more to spend on your adventures abroad, get cash at your bank before leaving the United States. Also, watch out for card fees and avoid airport currency exchange kiosks.
One of the best ways to minimize currency exchange fees is to get foreign currency in cash at your local bank. You can also order currency online or by phone to be sent to your doorstep. Some currencies are available for sameday exchange while others require advance notice.
While airport currency exchange kiosks are a convenient fallback, their exchange rates will typically be less favorable than your banking institution. Use a currency conversion calculator to help you do the math and compare the most affordable option for you.
+ PREPARE FOR HOTEL INCIDENTALS
When handing over your card at hotel check in, be prepared to leave a deposit to cover incidentals. Be sure you get the full rundown on the amount that will be authorized on your credit card to cover room service, mini bar purchases, Wi-Fi and damages.
Note that incidentals are a temporary hold on your credit card, and it will be taken off your account once you check out. If you haven’t gone wild with the room service or mini bar or trashed the room.
Taking care of these essential financial and communication details before your trip may seem like a hassle, but it's a small investment of time that can save you a world of trouble later. Remember, the goal is to spend your vacation enjoying new experiences and creating unforgettable memories – not dealing with blocked credit cards, high roaming charges or unexpected hotel fees.
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Gear Up
FOR YOUR GETAWAY
WITH THESE ESSENTIAL TECH TIPS
From smartphones to tablets to travel apps and GPS devices, your tech gear enhances how you explore the world. But let's be real … there's nothing worse than being stuck with a dead phone or struggling to navigate a foreign city because you forgot to pack the right chargers or download a few key apps.
But don’t worry: We got your back with all the tips you need to make the most of your tech gear.
+ KEEP YOUR DEVICES POWERED UP
Packing your tech isn’t as easy as stuffing it in your suitcase. You also need to find a way to keep it charged, connected to the internet and easily accessible.
Plus, with different regions requiring distinct types of electrical plugs and voltages, if you haven’t packed the right adapter or converter, your tech will be useless.
Pack a universal travel adapter with multiple USB ports and plug types, so you can charge several devices at once. You’ll also want to carry a multi-port USB charger with high output capacity that features fast charging and several ports for different types of devices.
Also, it’s a good idea to pack a power strip and a couple of portable chargers/power banks.
+ DOWNLOAD ESSENTIAL TRAVEL APPS BEFORE YOU GO
In today's digital age, there's an app for everything. Look, travel is no exception. From navigation and translation to currency conversion and entertainment, the right apps can make your journey smoother, more efficient and more enjoyable.
Translation resources, currency converters and other apps come in handy when traveling to a new destination. Here are a few you’ll want to download before traveling:
Google Maps: This app offers real-time driving and walking directions and traffic updates. You can also download maps for offline use. So, you avoid
getting lost even without an internet connection.
Google Translate: Supports over 100 languages and can be used offline, ensuring language barriers don’t derail your dream getaway.
Xe Currency: Provides exchange rates for over 180 currencies, leaving you to quickly calculate expenses on the go.
Netflix: Long flights and layovers can be a pain. But with Netflix, you’ll stay entertained. Download your favorite shows before your trip and you’ll have hours of enjoyment at your fingertips: no internet needed.
Packing the right chargers, adapters and power banks will ensure your devices are always ready to capture your memories and keep you connected. And by downloading a few key travel apps, you'll have the resources to make the most of your getaway.
MUST-TAKE STEPS TO STAYING
Safe & Healthy
ABROAD
Traveling can be a wonderful way to relax and rejuvenate. But crowded airports, unfamiliar climates and the unknowns of travel destinations can test your patience. Now, a few tips for preparing ahead can keep you happy and healthy during your getaway.
+ PACK YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS AND PRIORITIZE YOUR WELL-BEING
Lost luggage is a hassle, but it can become painful when it compromises your health. Always pack an extra dose of medicine when possible and keep your medications with you.
Keep all prescription medications in their original containers and bring an additional dose for 1-2 days in case your flight is delayed, or some other emergency happens. All medical supplies you need should be packed in your purse or carry-on luggage.
Lastly, don’t forget to take a travel health kit with TSA approved medicine packets for indigestion, motion sickness, headaches, allergies, sinus congestion and other health issues that may arise.
+ PROTECT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM ON THE GO
Exposure to bacteria, viruses and parasites you’re not used to is more likely when you’re traveling. And with lack of sleep causing a lowered immune system, you’ll want to take a few essential steps to prevent infection.
Protect your immune system by keeping hand sanitizer on you while traveling and using it after touching public surfaces and before you eat. Use disinfectant wipes to not only keep your hands clean, but to also wipe down flight seats, tray tables and other public areas.
We also suggest wearing face masks to prevent respiratory infections while moving about in crowded places.
+ SAFEGUARD YOUR PEACE OF MIND WITH SAFETY DEVICES
While we hope you never need to use them, personal safety alarms and GPS trackers can provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind. That’s especially true if you're traveling solo or in unfamiliar areas.
Personal safety and defense alarms are small devices that release piercingly loud alarms to help deter attackers, allowing you to get away safely.
Often more dependable than cellular networks,
a personal GPS tracker can share your exact location at any given time using GPS networks. This means your position is reported accurately, and even from the most remote places. Using a GPS tracker can provide peace of mind for your loved ones while you’re away.
Do some research and invest in a device that fits your needs and budget. Listen, it's a small price to pay for added protection.
+ USE AN EMERGENCY FORM TO PREPARE FOR THE UNEXPECTED
While we all want our trips to go off without a hitch, we still need to prepare in case they don’t. One way to stay ready is by completing a personal medical information form before you leave (and give a copy or 2 to trusted family members and friends).
Your form should include:
√ Emergency contacts.
√ Primary care provider contact information.
√ Current medical conditions.
√ Current medications, dosages and schedule.
√ Medical history.
√ Travel itinerary.
√ Insurance information.
Taking care of your health and safety while traveling is crucial for a stress-free trip. By packing extra medications, protecting your immune system, investing in personal safety devices, and preparing a medical information form, you'll be ready for any challenges. Embark on your next adventure with confidence, knowing you've taken the necessary steps to stay happy, healthy and safe.
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Packing Essentials
Ever arrived at your destination and realized you completely blanked about packing an item you needed? That’s not the experience we want you to have. That’s why we’re here to remind you of the little things you might not remember to pack. Here are some essentials you should keep in mind:
+ SMART PACKING
First things first, before you go shopping crazy on Amazon inside our special Travel Divas store with curated outfits for your trips, keep in mind the climate and cultural norms of your location.
Before you pick out your color scheme, research the typical climate for your dream destination and start planning accordingly.
Even for hotter destinations, you may still need to keep in mind cultural customs. For example, in Dubai, there are only certain areas and establishments where showing more skin is appropriate.
Additionally, don’t forget to account for any planned activities. Going on a safari? Make sure you get the right accessories and clothing to protect your melanin-rich skin from sun and bug bites.
+ TECH ESSENTIALS
Be sure to bring chargers, USB cables and most importantly, adapters for your electronic devices. Depending on where you’re visiting, your regular chargers may not fit. That’s why it’s important to bring a travel adapter or two to ensure you can stay connected throughout your trip.
Wireless headphones are a must for the plane but if you plan on using the in-air entertainment, you may need wired ones or even one of those Bluetooth transmitters that make it possible for you to use your wireless ones.
Make a list of all your favorite tech accessories. Planning a trip where you’ll be swimming? Don’t forget to purchase a waterproof case for any in-the-water photos you’ll want to take.
+ JUST-IN-CASE ITEMS
Digitally “pack” a copy of your passport, itinerary and identification inside your email and another cloud source just in case you lose them. It’s also a smart idea to register with the embassy in your destination country which can help assist in the unfortunate event you lose your passport.
Paper copies might also be helpful, too, though be sure to tuck them in a safe spot.
Any medications you take on a regular basis should also be on your essential packing list, but also feel free to pack remedies you may not normally rely on unless you’re unwell. This could include painkillers, gas or bloating reducers, Lactaid, and other “just-in-case” medicines. Double-check to make sure you can bring them with you into other countries, as well.
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4 WAYS TO BE
CULTURALLY INTELLIGENT
NO MATTER WHERE YOU GO
Trust us, there’s nothing worse than visiting the tourist area in your city and watching the ignorance happen. You never wanna be THAT person, and when you follow the tips we’ve laid out for you, you won’t ever be the kind of traveler who isn’t aware of local customs.
Girlfriend, you are very much already the research queen. Yes, we see you! So while it may feel tedious to do a little bit of extra Googling to figure out what the local customs are, you’ll be rewarded with a seamless, memorable for-allthe-right-reasons experience at the end of it all.
This isn’t a 15-minute task. The same way you spend hours looking at travel influencers’ pics and watching YouTube vlogs of your dream destination is the same way you should pour time into not just the customs … but also the laws and social etiquette of your destination.
LEARN & PRACTICE THE LANGUAGE
While English is often one of the languages you’ll find folks are able to speak abroad, it’s rude to visit another country expecting everyone to know how to speak it.
That’s why it’s a sign of respect to learn some of the local phrases so you can easily navigate basic conversations.
Yes, you can use translation apps, but as part of your vacation prep, practice some of these phrases so you can easily recall them when you need to. + RESEARCH & RESPECT
+ TIPPING
While tipping may be customary in many parts of the U.S. – tipping culture looks different in other countries and cities.
In some places, it may be considered a sign of disrespect. In others, it’s customary.
DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE TO UNDERSTAND WHETHER OR NOT YOU SHOULD TIP, AND ALSO, HOW MUCH.
+ ENGAGEMENT
Live your best life and take pictures, but keep in mind that you are visiting where others live. With that in mind, don’t forget to engage with the locals! Your safety is key, but it never hurts to find ways to connect with the community.
Ask questions and make it your business to have conversations with at least one local beyond the staff you connect with to really learn what it’s like to visit your destination.
07 3 Dining & Social Etiquette Reminders
SO YOU'RE ALWAYS RESPECTING THE LOCAL CULTURE
You’ve got all your Black Girl Magic outfits lined up. You’re ready for breathtaking sunsets. Mouthwatering food. And you’ve packed all your essentials to avoid any hiccups. But have you thought about more than just the weather or the amazing things you’ll do when you arrive?
Knowing the dining and social etiquette cues of the country you’re visiting will ensure you feel your most comfortable while also respecting local culture. Here’s what you need to know:
+ KEEP YOUR MIND, EYES & MOUTH OPEN
Before you turn your nose down at a local delicacy, remember, you’re not at home anymore! The key to a great dining experience in a foreign country is understanding things won’t be the same.
Pause before making any comments, keep an open mind, and an adventurous spirit. You can always do some research on local cuisine or delicacies if it makes you feel more comfortable.
You might be pleasantly surprised by trying out something you would’ve never even thought of at home!
+ SPECIAL DIETS & ALLERGIES
Having dietary restrictions can be challenging when you’re traveling. To accommodate your needs, it’s best to do some research beforehand.
For example, if you’re lactose-intolerant, you might be used to drinking alternative milks such as almond or oat here in the U.S. But in Japan, this isn’t a common practice, nor is substituting items in a dish.
Dietary restrictions can also inform where you visit. For example, if you have a peanut allergy, Thailand, where peanuts are a common ingredient in many traditional dishes, might be challenging.
Be sure to communicate food allergies when dining out. Also, try to find out if food or ingredients you may be allergic to are cooked on the same surfaces. Not every country follows specific food safety rules, so do your due diligence to ensure you have the best time.
Before departure, spend a few minutes researching on Google, YouTube, and even TikTok to get a feel for how others with dietary restrictions and allergies created enjoyable experiences during their dream trips.
+ ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
Listen, we’re all for living your best life, but just like you would back home, be discerning of where and how much alcohol you consume. Always keep your drink in your hand at all times. Consider bringing alcohol covers, especially if you’re going to party.
In addition to the regular safety tips you adhere to for a responsible drinking experience, keep in mind any local customs around drinking.
Some cultures may frown upon livelier behavior that can result from having more than a drink or two, so like with everything, research your destination.
Be responsible and enjoy!
CUSTOM PRIVATE TRIPS TO DUBAI
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Black Girl
KEEP YOUR ON POINT
Magic
T+
WHILE YOU TRAVEL
raveling can be exhausting – but there’s a way to enjoy the journey just as much as arriving at the actual destination. Here are a few on-the-go travel tips to keep your Black girl magic meter charged before, during and after the trip:
KEEP IT COMFY
Comfort is a top priority while traveling, especially on long-haul flights or layovers. Make a list of the items that will make your flight time a breeze.
Think neck pillows, compression socks, snacks, face masks and other items that will help you kick back and relax en route.
Your outfit choice should also be comfortable. That doesn’t have to be sweatpants if that’s not your style but stick to breathable fabrics that allow your body to move freely.
+ KEEP IT KNOWLEDGEABLE
Before you ever get on the plane, know the transportation options available to you once you arrive. Do some research on whether Uber or Lyft is available, or if you’ll need to take local car service, buses or trains.
+
KEEP IT QUICK
Hate waiting in the security or customs lines? Global Entry is your new best friend. It’ll allow you to cut through customs when traveling abroad, and it includes TSA PreCheck®, which makes traveling in the U.S. much faster with quicker security check-ins. Plus, no need to take off your shoes!
Mobile Passport Control is another option – and it’s free! Simply download the app and follow the instructions to upload the necessary docs so you can speed through re-entry into the U.S.
UNLIKE GLOBAL ENTRY OR TSA
PRECHECK, THERE’S NO PREAPPROVAL REQUIRED. †
ALL-WHITE *REQUIRED
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FROM STRESS BUT STAY
09
DISCONNECT CONNECTED
TO THE PRESENT
Travel is a time when you can get away from all your daily stresses. No work, no responsibilities, no one blowing up your phone. The idea of being so disconnected is alluring but it’s important to stay connected in some ways to ensure you have a safe trip. Here’s what you should focus on:
+ EMERGENCY
CONTACTS
Inform at least one person when and where you’ll be traveling. Keep a list of emergency contacts both digitally and physically. Hopefully, you’ll never need to use the list but having it on your devices and as a physical copy can ensure that should something happen to you, there’s someone back home who’s in the know.
+ SOCIAL MEDIA
Subscribe to local news from your destination via social media so that you can stay connected to what’s happening on the ground. This is not just so you’re informed about a hot new street food festival or a cultural event, but also for safety reasons.
Whether it’s updates on weather and climate (such as a natural disaster) or political unrest, staying in the know about what’s happening locally via social media will keep you safe.
+ TELL THE
EMBASSY
Register with the local U.S. embassy at your international destination with your name, accommodations and travel dates. The embassy can help you get back home or contact loved ones if an unexpected event occurs. It’s free and easy!
DIVAS
AROUND THE WORLD
HOW TO STAY
FINANCIALLY
WHILE TRAVELING
When it comes to traveling, most people like to splurge and spend their hardearned cash on things they wouldn’t normally back home. While there’s nothing wrong with that, travel shouldn’t disrupt your financial goals or cause additional stress – like when that post-vacay credit card bill hits. Here are three financial wisdom tips to keep that Black girl magic bank account looking healthy before, during and after your trip:
+ PLAN YOUR DAILY BUDGET
Overspending can derail your vacation quickly. Before departing, plan how much you’ll allow yourself to spend daily so that you can stay on track with your goals.
How to determine what your daily budget should be? Do some research on what things typically cost. Factor in whether meals are included in your travel package, tips, and random trinkets you might want to buy.
+ KEEP A TRAVEL EMERGENCY FUND
In addition to your regular emergency fund, you should have a reserve fund you can easily access for any unexpected situations that might arise.
This fund should be able to cover the cost of any flight changes, transportation, and even potential medical or hospital bills, in the event something happens.
+ USE YOUR CREDIT CARD
Many credit cards offer additional travel protection that isn’t available when booking via a debit card. For example, some cards offer reimbursements for lost baggage.
In the event you lose a credit card, any unauthorized charges can be reported as fraud with more ease, ensuring you still have access to your cash and debit card.
BAG LADY, TAKE
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3 Tips for Capturing Magical Content
ON YOUR DREAM TRIP
Is it just us or do you love scrolling back to the videos and pictures you took to relive the magical moments from your last trip? For your next destination, find that balance between being in the moment and preserving those memories with these content curation tips that’ll ensure you keep the magic alive forever:
+ CREATE A PHOTO SHOT LIST
Proper preparation is how you capture those big moments! Do your research and figure out the main shots you absolutely must take to capture the magic. Create a mini shot list and put it into your phone. Don’t forget to include some small moments too, like weather, plants or flowers, food, street scenes or something random.
+ SOCIAL MEDIA CAPTIONS
Here comes the fun! Channel your inner writer and spend a few minutes coming up with cute oneliners in advance to complement your photos. Think of your favorite lines from songs, catchphrases and things you love to say as inspiration.
+
SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENTS
Look and feel like Black girl magic by scheduling all your self-care and beauty appointments ahead of time. Think hair, waxing and nails, but don’t forget about trips to the doctor! You want to be super stress-free so you can live your best travel life.
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Relax
As Black women, we’re so used to doing all the things, being on the go and checking off those endless to do lists. Sometimes, you can bring that energy into your travel journey. We get it.
Old habits die hard, but there’s magic in embracing the journey. Here’s how you can do just that:
+ RELAX
Isn’t it interesting how when you tell someone to relax, they want to do the exact opposite? The truth is, this is a time for you to really let go. We handled all the logistics so you could rest your weary mind. Allow things to happen as they happen. Let your mind be open to leaving work and household responsibilities where they belong — back home — so you can fully immerse yourself in new cultures and experiences.
AND EMBRACE THE JOY OF TRAVEL
It can be tough to quiet your mind but we encourage you to slow down and enjoy every part of your journey. Turbulence on the plane? Go with it. Marvel at Mother Nature and humans’ ability to create technology that gets you from one side of the world to the other. Enjoy the humidity. Feel your feet in the sand. Wherever you are, take a deep breath and just revel in the moment you’re in. + ENJOY
As the Olivia Popes of our worlds back home, it’s usually up to us to fix things. But when you travel with Travel Divas, know this: that’s not your responsibility. Things may change. New opportunities to explore something may pop up. What’s in the plan might not stay in the plan – so be open to things changing a little.
There’s magic in adaptability – and you, girlfriend, need only worry about staying in your Black girl magic as you travel.
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