5 Excellent Day Trips to Take from Lagos, Nigeria!

Lagos can sometimes feel like too much to handle. However, taking a break from the city and exploring a new environment can be extremely beneficial for your well-being. Fortunately, there are several affordable day trips from Lagos that can provide the perfect getaway.

Whether you call Lagos home or are just visiting, here are seven affordable city breaks that you can enjoy!

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Without further ado, let’s jump right in, starting with Badadry.

Day Trips from Lagos Nigeria – Badagry

Badagry is a historic coastal town in Nigeria, situated between Lagos and the Seme border. It has a rich cultural heritage, being the home to various age-old museums, buildings and artefacts. The town also served as an important port for exporting slaves and visitors to Badagry will find remnants of this dark chapter preserved all around the town.

Away from the historical sites, Badagry embraces its natural beauty with its picturesque beaches. The coastline offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a serene and tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and an all-around excellent day trip from Lagos.

Day Trips from Lagos Nigeria – Olumo Rock, Abeokuta

Olumo Rock is located in the city of Abeokuta. The rock is notable for the significant role it played during the 19th-century inter-tribal war involving the Egba people.

image 1

The city itself is also famous for its Adire merchants and exploring the markets makes for a good add-on destination. Olumo Rock is located less than two hours away from Lagos, on a good traffic day and it can be reached by either car or train.

Day Trips from Lagos Nigeria – Ibadan

Ibadan is another city that makes for an excellent day trip from Lagos. The city offers a unique blend of history and culture and is home to beautiful landmarks such as the University of Ibadan, Cocoa House, and the Mapo Hall.

image

Even though Ibadan can technically be done as a day trip due to its proximity to Lagos and the availability of a train route there, I recommend allocating at least 2 days in the city. This will allow you to explore a bit more of the city’s attractions, including its famous traditional restaurants, gardens, hiking trails and waterfalls, situated just outside the city.

Lesser Known Beaches of Lagos

Lagos is known for having some beaches near the city centre, however, they are often crowded and quite noisy. An option to avoid the crowd is to visit lesser-known beaches and resorts located a little outside the city centres.

Jara Beach Resort

These less explored places offer a more tranquil atmosphere, where you can enjoy the natural beauty and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Some of my favourite beach destinations in Lagos include Jara Beach Resort (they offer day passes for guests who don’t want to stay overnight) and Laguna Beach.

Day Trips from Lagos Nigeria – Olumirin Waterfalls/Ikogosi/Arinta Waterfalls

Osun and Ekiti states are located about three to four hours away from Lagos so this one is a bit of a long shot. But with proper planning and if you’re quite short on time, visiting either one of these states and their waterfalls can be and has been done in a day.

The waterfalls are best visited during the rainy season, or just afterwards. This is when you can truly get to appreciate their beauty. I have thoroughly enjoyed visiting Arinta and Erin Ijesha Waterfalls in the past and believe that these are some of the stunning natural destinations in the country.

Epe Mangroves

There you have it -some of the best day trips from Lagos! Have you been to any of these destinations?

Let me know your favourite ones in the comment section below! If you’ve also taken a wonderful day trip from Lagos, please share that as well!

2 comments

  1. Lovely list. ☺️. I have done: Badagry and Abeokuta as day trips. My different visits to Ibadan were usually a couple of days. I have been to Laguna beach as well. Loved Loved all of it. Don’t know why the first comment sent as anonymous, lol

    1. That’s wonderful. I love seeing Nigerians explore the country and glad to know you’ve enjoyed all your trips!

      Yeah, I started to notice many of the comments coming through were anon; I made a few changes, should be fine.

I love to hear from you, Leave a comment here!

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The Best of Both Worlds! 🥰

Just took the SGR again, and I got to try out the Premier Class coach - I loved the experience!

I'll be sharing all about this experience in my next blog post on www.travelwithapen.com -  what to expect from this train ride, the best seats for unobstructed views and elephant sightings in Tsavo National Park, and notable changes in the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and Diani!

#diani #dianibeachkenya #sgr #railtravel #tsavo #tembeakenya
The Best of Both Worlds! 🥰 Just took the SGR again, and I got to try out the Premier Class coach - I loved the experience! I'll be sharing all about this experience in my next blog post on www.travelwithapen.com - what to expect from this train ride, the best seats for unobstructed views and elephant sightings in Tsavo National Park, and notable changes in the journey from Nairobi to Mombasa and Diani! #diani #dianibeachkenya #sgr #railtravel #tsavo #tembeakenya
1 day ago
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Bougainvillea in full bloom in Nairobi 🌸, always a highlight of our strolls!
Bougainvillea in full bloom in Nairobi 🌸, always a highlight of our strolls!
3 days ago
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The Ngong Hills make a great day or half-day trip out of Nairobi. Hiking and picnicking opportunities here are pretty good, and the best part is that you can bring your furry friend along, too!

PS: If you plan to hike past three of these hills (I believe there are 7 in total) , it is highly recommended that you hire the services of a KWS guide at the entrance.
The Ngong Hills make a great day or half-day trip out of Nairobi. Hiking and picnicking opportunities here are pretty good, and the best part is that you can bring your furry friend along, too! PS: If you plan to hike past three of these hills (I believe there are 7 in total) , it is highly recommended that you hire the services of a KWS guide at the entrance.
5 days ago
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Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼

Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
Visa Friendly Rwanda 🇷🇼 Have you been? Is it on your wishlist? Let me know in the comment section! 💬
1 week ago
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Travel is a personal journey, and here's a little insight into my travel style and experiences 🌍✨

I have a "struggle passport" 😫—meaning *lots* of long, expensive visa processes. But, I make it work 🤷🏽‍♀️

💙 I’m all about exploring Africa, but I'll be the first to tell you that it can be pricey and difficult to do so, which is such a shame! 

I’m also a huge advocate for budget travel 💰 (as long as it’s within reason and doesn’t compromise the experience). "Budget" is relative, so I do what works for me. 

And when it comes to "poverty tourism"—absolutely not! Is detest too strong a word?

Finally, because I'm navigating the world with my struggle passport, you best believe I’m seeking out the best spots to explore at my new destination! 🌍✨

#TravelWithPurpose
Travel is a personal journey, and here's a little insight into my travel style and experiences 🌍✨ I have a "struggle passport" 😫—meaning *lots* of long, expensive visa processes. But, I make it work 🤷🏽‍♀️ 💙 I’m all about exploring Africa, but I'll be the first to tell you that it can be pricey and difficult to do so, which is such a shame! I’m also a huge advocate for budget travel 💰 (as long as it’s within reason and doesn’t compromise the experience). "Budget" is relative, so I do what works for me. And when it comes to "poverty tourism"—absolutely not! Is detest too strong a word? Finally, because I'm navigating the world with my struggle passport, you best believe I’m seeking out the best spots to explore at my new destination! 🌍✨ #TravelWithPurpose
1 week ago
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Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles!

Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit...

Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon!

✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha.

🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM

🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc...

⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand.

Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
Since the visa application for Thailand 🇹🇭 got a little simpler for Nigerians 🇳🇬, I think more people may choose to visit The Land of Smiles! Thailand is a fascinating country that deserves a spot on your travel wishlist! There are so many things to do and places to visit... Here's a quick ~mini guide~ if you're planning to visit soon! ✈️ Getting There: Fly @qatarairways. Book early to get the best rates and flight time, + they fly to Phuket and Bangkok. You can also combine your trip with a layover in Doha. 🛂 Visas: No need to travel to Abuja for physical submission. You might still need an NDLEA certificate (depending on your location). Comment "visa link" and I'll share it directly in your DM 🏃🏽‍♀️ Things to Do: Island hopping, Temple hopping, culinary tours, hiking, shopping, etc... ⏰️ Best time to visit: November to early April: for the best weather and festivals. Something to take note of is the Burning 🔥 Season in Northern Thailand. Have you been to Thailand, or is it on your wishlist? Share your favourite experiences in the comment section!
1 week ago
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6/9
Why Japan has one of the best visitors' visa application experiences I've encountered as a Nigerian passport holder.

Have you applied for a Japanese visa before? What was your experience like?
Why Japan has one of the best visitors' visa application experiences I've encountered as a Nigerian passport holder. Have you applied for a Japanese visa before? What was your experience like?
2 weeks ago
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7/9
When reality exceeds expectations 🪄✨️

In a trip filled with many highlights, the landscapes in Sossusvlei stand out. Here's a mini guide if you plan to visit ⤵️

🛻 How to Get There: The best way is to rent a car and drive down to Sesriem. Google Maps is pretty accurate in terms of directions (not time 🚫). So leave Windhoek early ⚠️

🚍If you do not have a car, then joining a tour or shuttle service is the only other option.

From Sesriem entrance gate, Sossusvlei is another ~1hr drive to reach the 2WD parking lot.  You can continue driving to the 4WD parking lot or take a shuttle from here if you're not comfortable driving on sand 🏜.

🛏 Where to stay: Budget camping ⛺️ - NWR Sesriem Campsite, Sesriem Oshana Camp. Luxury 💰 - Dead Valley Lodge, Sossus Dune Lodge

⏳️ Best Time to Visit: May to September. Plan to visit at sunrise🌤or later in the evening for the best weather conditions and light. 

A detailed guide is available on my blog: www.travelwithapen.com. Leave me a comment below if you'd like to receive the link.

#explorenamibia #sossusvlei #dunesofnamibia #sossusvleisunrise #desertdreaming #namibiatravel
When reality exceeds expectations 🪄✨️ In a trip filled with many highlights, the landscapes in Sossusvlei stand out. Here's a mini guide if you plan to visit ⤵️ 🛻 How to Get There: The best way is to rent a car and drive down to Sesriem. Google Maps is pretty accurate in terms of directions (not time 🚫). So leave Windhoek early ⚠️ 🚍If you do not have a car, then joining a tour or shuttle service is the only other option. From Sesriem entrance gate, Sossusvlei is another ~1hr drive to reach the 2WD parking lot. You can continue driving to the 4WD parking lot or take a shuttle from here if you're not comfortable driving on sand 🏜. 🛏 Where to stay: Budget camping ⛺️ - NWR Sesriem Campsite, Sesriem Oshana Camp. Luxury 💰 - Dead Valley Lodge, Sossus Dune Lodge ⏳️ Best Time to Visit: May to September. Plan to visit at sunrise🌤or later in the evening for the best weather conditions and light. A detailed guide is available on my blog: www.travelwithapen.com. Leave me a comment below if you'd like to receive the link. #explorenamibia #sossusvlei #dunesofnamibia #sossusvleisunrise #desertdreaming #namibiatravel
2 weeks ago
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8/9
A beautiful country with the friendliest people! 🛺🇹🇭🪷🐘🌺
A beautiful country with the friendliest people! 🛺🇹🇭🪷🐘🌺
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
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