Santiago Travel Guide

Duration

4-5 Days

Best Visit Dates

Spring

Currency

Chilean Peso (CLP)

Local Language

Spanish

Santiago: Chile’s Capital of Culture and Adventure

Santiago, Chile’s bustling capital, is a city set against the dramatic backdrop of the Andes. It offers a mix of historical landmarks, such as Plaza de Armas, and modern attractions including a thriving arts scene and excellent dining options. As a gateway to Chile’s wine regions and outdoor adventures, Santiago provides a unique blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making it an essential stop for travelers exploring South America.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Santiago: What You Should Know Before Traveling

Included/Excluded

  • Rich Cultural Heritage
  • Modern Transportation System
  • Stunning Natural Scenery
  • Safe Urban Environment
  • Air Pollution Issues
  • High Cost of Living
  • Unpredictable Weather Conditions
  • Traffic Congestion

Top Must-Attend Events in Santiago

Fiestas Patrias is Chile's most important national holiday, celebrating the country's independence with parades, traditional dance performances like the cueca, and fondas—large outdoor parties featuring delicious Chilean food, music, and games. Santiago becomes the epicenter of these celebrations, with events held in parks and public spaces across the city.

Fiestas Patrias

Fiestas Patrias

September 18-19 (Annually)

Although celebrated across Chile, Santiago’s Vendimia Festival is unique due to its proximity to the Maipo Valley, one of Chile’s most famous wine regions. The festival includes grape-stomping competitions, wine tastings, and local food markets, offering visitors a taste of Chile’s rich viticulture.

Vendimia Wine Harvest Festival

Vendimia Wine Harvest Festival

First Weekend of April (Annually)

Best Summer Activities in Santiago

In Santiago, the summer season, which spans from December to February, is characterized by warm temperatures and abundant sunshine, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. The city comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere as both locals and tourists take advantage of the long, sunny days.

Exploring the Andes: The nearby Andes Mountains provide a perfect escape from the city heat, offering hiking trails, mountain biking, and breathtaking views. It’s a great way to enjoy Santiago’s natural surroundings and experience cooler temperatures at higher altitudes.

Outdoor Festivals and Events: Summer in Santiago is marked by numerous outdoor festivals, including music concerts, cultural events, and food fairs. These gatherings, often held in parks and public squares, allow visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying the pleasant weather.

Wine Tours in the Maipo Valley: The summer season is ideal for visiting the Maipo Valley, Chile’s premier wine region located just outside Santiago. Tourists can indulge in wine tastings, vineyard tours, and gourmet dining experiences, all set against the backdrop of picturesque vineyards and rolling hills.

Best Winter Activities in Santiago

In Santiago, the winter season, lasting from June to August, brings cooler temperatures and a distinct change in the city’s atmosphere. The Andes Mountains, visible from the city, become snow-capped, providing a beautiful backdrop and inviting opportunities for winter sports.

Skiing in the Andes: Santiago’s proximity to the Andes makes it an excellent base for skiing and snowboarding. Popular ski resorts like Valle Nevado and La Parva are just a short drive away, offering world-class slopes and facilities for winter sports enthusiasts.

Visiting Hot Springs: Winter is the perfect time to relax in the natural hot springs located in the surrounding areas of Santiago, such as Termas de Colina. These thermal baths provide a soothing experience amid stunning mountain scenery, ideal for warming up after a day in the cold.

Exploring Santiago’s Museums: With cooler weather, winter is an ideal time to explore Santiago’s rich cultural offerings indoors. The city’s museums, like the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, provide fascinating insights into Chile’s history and art, making for an enriching and warm day out.

Best and Busiest Time in Santiago

Fiestas Patrias

September 18-19
During Chile’s national holiday, Santiago fills with locals and tourists celebrating independence with parades, festivals, and parties, making it one of the busiest times of the year.

Summer Vacation

December to February
The summer months attract both international tourists and Chileans on vacation, leading to crowded attractions, parks, and outdoor events across the city.

Santiago Marathon

Second Sunday of May
The city sees a significant influx of participants and spectators during the Santiago Marathon, creating heavy foot traffic and congestion in key areas of the city.

Quietest Times to Visit Santiago: Avoid the Crowds

Post-Summer

March to April
After the summer vacation ends, Santiago experiences a lull in tourism, making it an ideal time for quieter visits with fewer crowds.

Late Winter

August
As the winter season winds down, the city becomes less crowded, particularly in non-ski areas, offering a peaceful atmosphere for exploration.

Early Spring

September, before Fiestas Patrias
In the early part of September, just before the national holiday celebrations begin, Santiago is relatively calm, providing a tranquil experience in the city.

Top 3 Must-See Iconic Landmarks in Santiago

Santiago, with its rich history and modern flair, boasts several iconic landmarks that offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture and heritage. These sites are must-visit destinations that provide both locals and tourists with an unforgettable experience. Here are the three most prominent iconic and popular places in Santiago:

Plaza de Armas

Plaza de Armas is the historic heart of Santiago, surrounded by significant buildings like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Post Office. The square has been the city's social and political center since its founding, and today it is a lively gathering place for both locals and tourists. The colonial architecture and nearby museums make it an ideal starting point for exploring Santiago's history. Street performers, artists, and vendors often add to the vibrant atmosphere. The square's lush greenery and fountains offer a peaceful contrast to the bustling urban environment. It's a perfect spot to relax and take in the city's ambiance.

Transportation:
Public Transportation: Accessible via Metro Line 5 (Green Line), with the nearest station being Plaza de Armas.
Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Easily reachable by taxi or ride-sharing services, with multiple drop-off points around the square.
Walking: Located in the city center, it’s within walking distance of many other attractions and neighborhoods.

Cerro San Cristóbal

Cerro San Cristóbal, part of Parque Metropolitano, offers the best panoramic views of Santiago. At the summit, visitors can see the iconic statue of the Virgin Mary and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The hill is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and picnicking, making it a favorite for nature lovers. There's also a zoo and a botanical garden within the park, offering family-friendly activities. The funicular railway provides a scenic and historical way to ascend the hill. On clear days, the views from the top stretch all the way to the snow-capped Andes, providing a stunning backdrop for the city below.

Transportation:
Public Transportation: Accessible via Metro Line 1 (Red Line) to Baquedano Station, followed by a short walk to the funicular or cable car entrance.
Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off at the entrance to the park or near the funicular station.
Biking: The hill has dedicated bike paths for those who prefer an active ascent, and bike rentals are available nearby.

La Moneda Palace

La Moneda Palace, Chile's presidential palace, is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of the country’s political history. The Changing of the Guard ceremony, held every other day, is a popular attraction for visitors. The palace itself is a significant site, having witnessed pivotal moments in Chile's history, including the 1973 military coup. Beneath the palace lies the Centro Cultural La Moneda, an underground cultural center with rotating art exhibitions, making it a hub for Chilean art and culture. The palace's neoclassical design, coupled with its historical importance, makes it a must-see. Guided tours are available, providing deeper insight into the building's role in Chile's governance.

Transportation:
Public Transportation: Easily accessible via Metro Line 1 (Red Line) to La Moneda Station, which is directly beneath the palace.
Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Convenient drop-off points are located around the perimeter of the palace.
Walking: Centrally located, La Moneda is within walking distance from other key landmarks like Plaza de Armas and Cerro Santa Lucía.

These iconic and popular places showcase Santiago 's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, providing unforgettable experiences for visitors.

Top Attractions and Must-Visit Places in Santiago

Top Local Dishes and Food Recommendations in Santiago

Empanadas
Empanadas are a classic Chilean dish, typically filled with a mixture of beef, onions, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, known as empanada de pino. These savory pastries are a must-try when in Santiago.
Recommended Restaurant: La Piojera
Pastel de Choclo
This traditional dish is a comforting corn pie made with ground beef, chicken, olives, and a topping of mashed corn. It’s a beloved staple in Chilean homes, especially during the summer.
Recommended Restaurant: Liguria
Cazuela
Cazuela is a hearty Chilean stew made with beef or chicken, corn, potatoes, and pumpkin, offering a taste of traditional Chilean comfort food. It’s perfect for cooler days.
Recommended Restaurant: El Hoyo
Asado
Chilean asado, or barbecue, is a social affair where various meats, including beef, pork, and sausages, are grilled to perfection. It’s a great way to experience the local cuisine.
Recommended Restaurant: La Uruguaya
Completo
The Chilean completo is a hot dog topped with a variety of ingredients, including avocado, mayonnaise, tomatoes, and sauerkraut. It’s a popular street food that’s both filling and delicious.
Recommended Restaurant: Dominó
Curanto
Originating from the Chiloé archipelago, curanto is a traditional dish that combines seafood, meat, potatoes, and vegetables, all cooked together in a pit. It’s a unique and flavorful experience.
Recommended Restaurant: Peumayén Ancestral Food
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Must-Try Restaurants in Santiago

Best Hotels and Accommodation Options in Santiago

View LocationThe Ritz-Carlton, SantiagoNightly Budget: $350 - $600

Description: The Ritz-Carlton, Santiago stands as a pinnacle of luxury in the El Golf neighborhood, offering an unparalleled experience with its refined elegance and top-tier service. Each room is designed with sophistication, featuring plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and large windows that offer sweeping views of the city or the Andes Mountains. The hotel’s rooftop spa and wellness center provide a tranquil escape with a stunning glass-domed indoor pool, complemented by a full-service spa and fitness center. Dining options include renowned restaurants like Estró, which serves a blend of Chilean and international cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The Ritz-Carlton's impeccable attention to detail, from the personalized service to the luxurious amenities, makes it a top choice for travelers seeking an extraordinary stay.

Location: Located about 20 minutes by car or metro from Santiago’s historic city center, the hotel offers a tranquil yet convenient location.

View LocationMandarin Oriental, SantiagoNightly Budget: $350-550

Description: The Mandarin Oriental, Santiago epitomizes luxury with its expansive grounds, beautifully landscaped gardens, and opulent rooms. Each guest room is elegantly decorated, offering modern comforts with a touch of classic charm, including spacious marble bathrooms and high-tech amenities. The hotel’s outdoor pool area, surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery, provides a serene oasis within the city. Dining at the Mandarin Oriental is an experience in itself, with world-class restaurants like Senso, known for its Mediterranean cuisine, and Matsuri, offering exquisite Japanese dishes. The hotel also features a state-of-the-art fitness center and a full-service spa, ensuring guests have everything they need for a luxurious and relaxing stay.
Location: Approximately 15 minutes by car to the city center, providing a serene environment while still being accessible to Santiago’s main attractions.

View LocationW SantiagoNightly Budget: $280 - $500

Description:W Santiago is a vibrant, modern luxury hotel located in the heart of Santiago's financial district, El Golf. Known for its cutting-edge design and trendy atmosphere, the W Santiago offers chic rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains or the cityscape. The hotel features an impressive rooftop pool and bar, Red2One, which is a popular spot for both guests and locals to enjoy cocktails while overlooking the city. Dining options are equally stylish, with restaurants like Karai, blending Peruvian and Japanese flavors, and Noso, offering a modern take on French cuisine. The W's energetic vibe, combined with its luxurious amenities, makes it a favorite among those looking for a contemporary and dynamic stay in Santiago.

Location: Located about 20 minutes by car or metro from the city center, providing easy access to both business and leisure areas.

View LocationHotel Cumbres LastarriaNightly Budget: $150 - $250

Description: Hotel Cumbres Lastarria is a chic boutique hotel nestled in the cultural heart of Santiago’s Lastarria neighborhood. The hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and artistic charm, with spacious, well-appointed rooms that feature contemporary design and local art. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, providing guests with stunning views of the city and the Andes Mountains. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Santiago’s vibrant cultural scene, with theaters, museums, and trendy cafes just steps away. The in-house restaurant, Punto Ocho, serves a delightful mix of local and international dishes in a stylish setting.

Location: Located in the city center, it’s within walking distance of major attractions like the Bellas Artes Museum and Cerro Santa Lucía.

View LocationNH Ciudad de SantiagoNightly Budget: $140 - $230

Description: NH Ciudad de Santiago is a comfortable and well-appointed hotel that offers spacious suites ideal for both short and extended stays. The hotel features a modern fitness center, an indoor pool, and a restaurant serving a variety of local and international dishes. Guests appreciate the relaxed ambiance and the hotel’s proximity to the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions. The hotel is also close to the Andes Mountains, making it a convenient choice for those looking to explore both urban and natural landscapes.

Location: About 10 minutes by metro or car to the city center, making it a convenient option for exploring both urban and natural attractions.

View LocationHotel Solace SantiagoNightly Budget: $130 - $220

Description: Hotel Solace Santiago is a contemporary hotel located in the upscale Providencia neighborhood, known for its stylish design and exceptional service. The rooms are modern and comfortable, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that offer great views of the city. The hotel boasts a rooftop pool and bar, which provide a relaxing spot to unwind while enjoying panoramic views of the Andes. The on-site restaurant offers a variety of Chilean and international dishes, making dining both convenient and delightful. This hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a modern, well-located accommodation with easy access to both business and leisure areas.

Location: Located about 10 minutes by car or metro from the city center, it’s well-positioned for accessing Santiago’s main attractions and business districts.

View LocationMercure Santiago CentroNightly Budget: $120 - $200

Description: Mercure Santiago Centro is a modern hotel that provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Santiago. The rooms are spacious and equipped with contemporary amenities, offering a relaxing environment after a day of sightseeing. The hotel features an outdoor pool and a fitness center, and the on-site restaurant offers a variety of international and Chilean dishes. Guests appreciate the hotel’s central location, which makes it easy to access key attractions such as the Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace. The friendly staff and excellent service make it a great value for travelers.

Location: Centrally located, just steps away from the Universidad de Chile metro station and within walking distance of the Plaza de Armas and La Moneda Palace.

View LocationCasaSur Charming HotelNightly Budget: $80 - $120

Description: CasaSur Charming Hotel offers a homely atmosphere with beautifully decorated rooms and personalized service. This boutique hotel is located in the tranquil neighborhood of Barrio Italia, known for its artsy vibe and local markets. It’s a great option for travelers seeking a unique, intimate experience on a budget.

Location: Located about 15 minutes by car or metro from the city center, offering a peaceful setting with convenient access to central Santiago.

View LocationHotel LoretoNightly Budget: $70 - $110

Description: Hotel Loreto is a small, budget-friendly hotel located in the Recoleta neighborhood, close to Santiago’s main attractions. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a cozy courtyard, and a rooftop terrace with views of the city. It’s a perfect choice for travelers looking for affordability without compromising on location.

Location: Just a 10-minute walk to the city center and close to key sites like La Chascona and Mercado Central.

View LocationHostal Rio AmazonasNightly Budget: $50 - $90

Description: Hostal Rio Amazonas is a charming, budget-friendly option located in the lively Bellavista neighborhood. This hostel offers comfortable private rooms, a friendly atmosphere, and a delicious breakfast included in the stay. It’s a popular choice among travelers looking for an affordable yet cozy place to stay with easy access to Santiago’s cultural hotspots.

Location: Just a short walk from the city center and main attractions like Cerro San Cristóbal and the Bellas Artes Museum.

Unique Stays and Alternative Accommodation in Santiago

For travelers seeking unique accommodation options beyond traditional hotels, Santiago offers several appealing alternatives. These options cater to different preferences and budgets, providing comfort and a more personalized experience.
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Santiago Travel Costs

These lists provide a guide for visitors planning to spend a week in Santiago on different budgets. It includes average expenses for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities for luxury, mid-range, and low-budget options.

Luxury Budget

Average
$ 5900 7 Days
  • Accommodation: $3500
  • Food: $1400
  • Transportation: $300
  • Activities: $700

Mid-Range Budget

Average
$ 2650 7 Days
  • Accommodation: $1400
  • Food: $700
  • Transportation: $150
  • Activities: $400

Budget-Friendly

Average
$ 980 7 Days
  • Accommodation: $450
  • Food: $280
  • Transportation: $100
  • Activities: $150

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Santiago
Top Picks for Traveling with Kids

In Santiago, there are several ideal accommodation options for families with children. These hotels cater to the needs of families with spacious rooms, child-friendly services, and central locations. Below are three of the most popular recommendations for family-friendly accommodations in Santiago:

View LocationHyatt Place Santiago/VitacuraNightly Budget: $120 - $200

Hyatt Place Santiago/Vitacura is a great option for families, offering spacious rooms with separate living areas and sofa beds. The hotel provides a complimentary breakfast buffet, an indoor pool, and a convenient location near parks and shopping centers, making it easy to explore the city with kids.

View LocationNoi VitacuraNightly Budget: $180 - $250

Noi Vitacura is a stylish hotel in the upscale Vitacura neighborhood, offering family suites and a rooftop pool with panoramic views of the Andes. The hotel’s proximity to the Bicentenario Park, a family favorite, and its kid-friendly services like babysitting make it a popular choice for families.

View LocationHotel Plaza El Bosque EbroNightly Budget: $150 - $220

Located in the business district of Las Condes, Hotel Plaza El Bosque Ebro offers spacious family suites with kitchenettes, an indoor pool, and a children’s play area. The hotel’s proximity to shopping malls and parks makes it convenient for family outings, and its comfortable accommodations ensure a relaxing stay.

Top Attractions for Kids in Santiago
Fun Places to Explore with Children

Travel Routes in Santiago
For Kids and Parents

Tour Plan

Day 01 Nature and Play
  • Parque Bicentenario: Begin with a morning at Parque Bicentenario, where kids can feed the ducks, explore playgrounds, and enjoy the wide open spaces perfect for a family picnic.
  • Museo Interactivo Mirador (MIM): In the afternoon, head to this interactive science museum where children can engage in hands-on exhibits that make learning fun.
Day 02 Adventure and Views
  • Parque Metropolitano and Funicular Ride: Start the day with a visit to Santiago’s largest urban park, riding the funicular up to Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic city views and a stop at the zoo.
  • La Chascona: After lunch, explore the whimsical La Chascona, one of Pablo Neruda’s homes, where older kids can delve into the poet’s fascinating life and eccentric design choices.
Day 03 Playtime and Discovery
  • Kidzania Santiago: Spend the morning at Kidzania, a child-sized city where kids can role-play different professions in an engaging and safe environment.
  • Fantasilandia: In the afternoon, head to Fantasilandia amusement park, offering a variety of rides and attractions suitable for all ages, from toddlers to older children.
Day 04 Animals and History
  • Buin Zoo: Start the day with a visit to Buin Zoo, located just outside Santiago, where children can see a variety of animals in well-maintained habitats and participate in educational activities.
  • Museo Nacional de Historia Natural: After lunch, explore the National Museum of Natural History, where kids can learn about Chile's diverse ecosystems and prehistoric creatures.
Day 05 Art and Relaxation
  • Centro Cultural La Moneda: Begin the day at this cultural center, which often hosts exhibitions and workshops tailored for children, offering a creative start to the day.
  • Parque Araucano: Spend the afternoon at Parque Araucano, where the family can relax in beautiful gardens, and children can enjoy the large playground and splash areas.

Best Shopping Spots in Santiago

Top Nightlife Venues in Santiago

Santiago offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, catering to all tastes, from sophisticated bars to lively dance clubs. Here are nine popular nightlife venues in Santiago, categorized by location:

How to Navigate Santiago: Transportation Tips

Metro

Santiago’s Metro system is one of the most modern and extensive in South America, with six lines covering much of the city. The Metro is fast, reliable, and affordable, making it the preferred choice for both locals and tourists.

Buses

The city’s bus network, known as Transantiago, complements the Metro and reaches areas that the Metro doesn’t cover. Buses are frequent and integrated with the Metro system, allowing for easy transfers with the same fare card.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available throughout Santiago and are a convenient option for quick, door-to-door service. It’s advisable to use official, metered taxis or to book through a reputable app to avoid any potential issues.

Ride-Sharing Services

Ride-sharing apps like Uber, DiDi, and Cabify are popular in Santiago and offer a convenient and often more affordable alternative to traditional taxis. These services are easily accessible via smartphone apps and provide various vehicle options depending on your needs.

Bicycles

Santiago has been expanding its bike lanes and bike-sharing programs, making cycling an increasingly popular way to navigate the city. The city’s bike-sharing system, Bike Santiago, allows you to rent bikes for short trips, providing an eco-friendly and healthy way to explore Santiago.

Santiago Transportation Cards: A Complete Guide

Santiago has a public transportation card system known as the Bip! Card. This card can be used on the Metro, buses, and some suburban trains, making it a convenient option for getting around the city. You can purchase a Bip! Card at any Metro station, some bus stops, and convenience stores like Lider or Servipag. The card can be recharged at these locations or through machines available in Metro stations. It’s a prepaid card, so you’ll need to load it with credit before use.

Santiago Safety Overview: What You Need to Know

Santiago is generally considered a safe city, especially in comparison to other major Latin American capitals. The city’s more affluent neighborhoods, such as Las Condes, Vitacura, and Providencia, are known for their low crime rates and well-maintained public spaces, making them popular with both locals and tourists. These areas are well-patrolled by police, and incidents of violent crime are rare. However, as with any large city, petty crime like pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur, particularly in crowded places such as markets, public transportation, and tourist hotspots like Bellavista and Plaza de Armas. Visitors are advised to stay alert, keep their belongings secure, and avoid displaying valuables openly.

In the outskirts of Santiago, some neighborhoods may have higher crime rates, particularly at night, and it’s generally recommended to avoid these areas unless necessary. Using reputable transportation options, like registered taxis or ride-sharing services, especially at night, can also enhance safety. Santiago’s Metro is safe to use, even during late hours, but it’s wise to remain vigilant in less crowded stations. The city has made efforts to improve security, including increased police presence in popular areas and the installation of surveillance cameras. Overall, Santiago is a safe destination for travelers, provided that common-sense precautions are taken.

Healthcare in Santiago: Comprehensive Guide for Visitors

Santiago offers a well-developed healthcare system, with services that are generally accessible and of high quality, especially in private facilities. The city has a mix of public and private hospitals, with private institutions often preferred by both locals and expatriates for their modern facilities and shorter waiting times. Travelers can feel assured that they will have access to competent medical care during their stay.
  • International Hospitals: Santiago has several international-standard hospitals, such as Clínica Alemana and Clínica Las Condes, which are well-equipped and often staffed with English-speaking professionals.
  • Emergency Services: Emergency services are reliable, with ambulances available via the 131 emergency number, though response times may vary depending on traffic and location.
  • Health Insurance: It’s advisable for travelers to have international health insurance, as private healthcare costs can be high, and some facilities may require payment upfront.
  • Payment: Private clinics and hospitals typically accept credit cards and cash, but it’s essential to check if your insurance will cover treatment before receiving care.
  • Clean Water: Tap water in Santiago is generally safe to drink, though some visitors prefer bottled water due to the different mineral content.
  • Hygiene: Santiago maintains good hygiene standards, with clean public spaces and well-maintained healthcare facilities.
  • Air Pollution: Air pollution can be an issue, especially during the winter months, when smog from vehicle emissions and industrial activities can impact air quality.
  • Pharmacies: Pharmacies are widespread and well-stocked, with many open 24 hours and offering a range of over-the-counter and prescription medications.
In conclusion, Santiago’s healthcare system is robust and accessible, especially in the private sector, which offers a high standard of care. While the public system is available, it may have longer wait times, so travelers often prefer private clinics. With proper insurance and some basic precautions, visitors can expect to receive quality medical care if needed during their stay in Santiago.

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