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All About Miami

Partying at Casa Casaurina - Versace’s Former Ocean Ave Estate on South Beach with Celebrities, Paris Hilton and VitaLuxury.com.

Miami is crazy and that’s what’s so great about it! From the drag queens and the Latinas, to the models and fashionistas, Miami & South Beach are just ridiculous. Ridiculously loud, that is. We had to put on our ear plugs in the Armani store - so you can only imagine how much louder it is in the clubs. The area is also ridiculously fun. Just think, you can wear your black leather pants and nobody will care. And, you’ll fit in more if you dance on the tables!Nonstop nightlife (nobody goes out until at least 11 PM, and most pros won’t get caught dead at a bar until 1 AM), beautiful people (models may shoot in NY or LA, but they live here), blue skies, turquoise water, and pastels should come to mind when you think about Miami. Art deco design + sandy beaches = happy people. Rolling in their Hummers. Rolling in their money.Waste the afternoon away on the beach, get some rest, and then get prepared for a really long night out. Exotic eateries, sexy lounges, and exhilarating outdoor decks count the hours down and command the attention - so party till dawn, if you dare. While South Beach has a last call around 4 AM (in some places even later), downtown Miami has been known to rage till noon the next day!

A message to the boys: if you wanna get into any dance clubs you MUST have the ladies with you. Even if you’re with George Clooney, you ain’t getting in with 2 or 3 guys on your own. Free passes? On the guestlist? Who cares! You are not getting in without the softer sex on your arm. You’ve heard of “no shirt, no shoes, no service”? Well, here it’s more like “no girls, no service”!

Seriously kids, Miami clubs can be just as tough to get into as L.A. or Vegas - so plan ahead and make sure you’ve got boys and girls in your group. Everywhere is different, but sometimes calling ahead earlier in the day and mentioning that you saw their place featured as an exclusive nightlife pick on journeyPod might help you get on the list. Or, consider arriving earlier than the hordes and dress in your coolest duds.

South Beach will show you sun all day and let you cut loose Vegas-style all night (by the way, if you have a gambling problem you can head about 30 minutes north to Hollywood where the Hard Rock Seminole Casino has got tables pumping).

So as you plan your getaway to this destination: grab your bathing suit and shades; pack your best ‘going out’ clothes; and bring your A-game. You’ll roll right in!

Enjoy Miami for its fine dining, fresh seafood, Latin flavors, and Little Italy. From Miami cheap eats to the city’s eclectic neighborhood restaurants, from the steakhouses to the seafood, this Metropolitan area has something for everyone.

With thousands of choices in the greater Miami area, you’re sure to find just the spot for a sumptuous celebration (food, dancing or otherwise). Your only challenge here will be to hit all the journeyPod Picks on your wish list!

Restaurants

Versailles Restaurant - In the mood for some authentic Cuban fare? Look no further. Versailles is the most famous Cuban eatery in all of Miami, known for its kitschiness and early-morning hours, this Cuban version of Denny’s has fans of every generation flocking to its doorstep. Whether you stop by after shaking what yo-mama-gave-ya in Little Havana, or meeting a friend during the day for some Cafe con Leche, Versaille has it all. The menu is a veritable survey of Cuban cooking and includes specialties such as Moors and Christians (flavorful black beans with white rice) and ropa vieja (shredded beef stew). Try the sweet tres leches (literally, “three milks,” a creamy Latin dessert) to finish. Located at 3555 SW Eighth St.

8 1/2 - Ever since the South Beach Wine and Food Festival, we cannot get the delicious taste of the Ox tail appetizer they served out of our heads. Hands down, Chef Jason McClain is a genius when it comes to creating the perfect dish. As long as they don’t let Rafael, the GM, in the kitchen the restaurant will continue to shine! (haha). Located adjacent to Hotel Clinton, this casual (yet romantic) spot will satisfy every taste - so make sure you add a trip here to your To Do list when you’re in town

The Honey Tree - This natural-food store pleases everyone from vegetarians to vegans with their deli, juice bar, and organic-produce market. Miami locals love this place (was voted “Best Natural Food/Vegetarian” by the Miami New Times). The top-notch desert options here include walnut-studded banana bread and nondairy chocolate mousse pie - which typically sells out by late afternoon - so grab it while you can! Located at 5138 Biscayne Blvd.

Soji Sushi - Expertly prepared and exquisitely fresh, Shoji offers an experience that includes simple dishes whose flavors speak for themselves- incorporating Japanese and North American ingredients in every bite! Shoju also offers the area’s first table-height sushi bar, allowing customers an unobstructed view of the sushi genius at work! If you are in the mood to dine al fresco, the Japanese Zen garden outside offers great seating options. Among the sushi you’ll likely not get enough of: Blue fin toro, the Hamachi Jalapeno and the Shoji Special roll. Reservations are highly recommended! Oh and here’s a tip: when you’re done with your dinner- you can make your way to Opium, located just steps away at 110 Collins Ave.

Ola- Talk about mouth-watering, Ola which stands for “Of Latin America”, (or wave) offers a Latin-Caribbean-Spanish fusion menu that is a top-notch destination in South Beach! The globally acclaimed “Father of Nuevo Latino cuisine”, Douglas, Rodriguez serves his world-famous ceviches, signature dishes like Oysters Rodriguez and Goat Cheese Empanadas -along with desserts that offer pure ecstacy! As long as you’re not watching your waistline, go ahead and indulge in Ola’s dessert tasting menu-which includes bite size portions of Churros with Venezuelan Chocolate Sauce and Chocolate Tres Leche. Ola also offers an extensive menu of premium hand-rolled Dominican cigars and is located at the Sanctuary Hotel at 1745 James Ave.

Canela Cafe - Like the translation of the name “Cinnamon”, this Spanish restaurant will add just the touch of spice to your life that you desperately need. Canela Cafe is an awesome Latin soul food hot spot that combines great Spanish Wines, tapas and art from local Miami artists under one roof. The best time to visit this eatery is during the day when Cuban-American co-owner Margarita Vasallo plays her role as the kitchen dominatrix preparing the impossibly creamy house croquetas as well as freshly-prepared Latin specials. Canela Cafe is located at 5132 Biscayne Blvd.

The Forge - A landmark in Miami Beach, an American icon, a throwback to Hollywood in the late 1930’s and a culinary temple built to the gods of wine, women and song, The Forge draws A-list celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Hillary Clinton. Voted # 1 Steak in America by Wine Spectator magazine, the cuisine here boasts French fare all the way - with escargot prepared in a Chardonnay sauce or smoked salmon tartar topped with caviar. For those looking to continue the evening after dinner, the adjacent Glass Nightclub is The Forge’s place to party - and one of the best places in town to get a glimpse of the jetSet crowd. For all you ladies - visit The Forge on a Wednesday where you’ll be awarded with martini specials. Located at 432 Forty First Street.

China Grill - One of the city’s most high profile gathering places, China Grill provides a globe-spanning culinary adventure in a spectacular setting that boasts great service, attention to details, and a sophisticated, no-frills ambiance. But the real draw here is that it’s trendy and fun, not to mention the delicious and massive piles of Pan-Asian cuisine that’s served family-style. And for those of you looking for private dining, China Grill has recently expanded its intimate and seductive Dragon Room, a private area within the restaurant which seats up to 40 guests and specializes in sushi created by Japanese masters showcasing local ingredients with innovative flavor combinations and artful presentations. China Grill is located at 404 Washington Ave.

Nobu - When Madonna ate here, nobody really noticed. Same exact thing happened when Justin Timberlake and Cameron Diaz canoodled here. Not because folks purposely tried not to notice, but because the real star here is the sushi! No longer necessary to leave the sandy shores of Miami to dine in one of NYC’s most celebrated restaurants, Nobu (located at 1901 Collins Ave. at the Shore Club) has quickly risen to the top and has been hailed as one of the best sushi restaurants in the world (with locations in NY, London and LA). And though you won’t wait long for your raw selection to be served, you may have to wait awhile to score a table. Pssst…gather all your friends, Nobu takes reservations for parties of 6 or more.

Ago at the Shore Club - The east-coast edition of LA’s famous Melrose Ave. eatery, Ago serves some of the most outstanding Italian (Tuscan) creations to its never-ending stream of celebrities. (It was also where Pulp Fiction director Quentin Tarantino once “slapped some respect” into producer Don Murphy of Natural Born Killers fame over some obvious difference of opinion.) Try the fritto misto, homemade ravioli and the signature bistecca alla fiorentina - all of which are cooked to absolute perfection. Ago is located (at 1901 Collins Ave. at the Shore Club) in a gorgeous rustic indoor/outdoor ambiance overlooking the pool area.

Blue Door Restaurant - Offering some of the most refined modern French cuisine with Brazilian and global influences, this restaurant (located at the Delano at 1685 Collins Ave.) is an ideal place to wine and dine with an abundance of white curtains, white candles, white grand piano and impossibly high ceilings. If you’re in the mood to dine alfresco, the outdoor veranda is equally impressive and overlooks a Philippe Starck life-sized chessboard and eclectic, pastoral garden. The food at Blue Door is also a sight to behold - and be eaten with the utmost gusto! Try the filet of black grouper or beef tenderloin - both excellent choices.

Barton G. The Restaurant - Culinary visionary Barton G. has created a restaurant that adds a new twist to dining out - by combining fine dining with fun dining. The Restaurant makes each meal an experience, fulfilling all your senses with enticing neo-Classic American comfort food. The fare is extravagantly whimsical and takes an entirely new direction with sophisticated style and an unparalleled fusion of many flavors. Try the West Avenue Backyard BBQ Ribs, the Bass-In-A-Bag or the BG Sea Monster - you won’t be disappointed with any of your choices off this menu. Located on 1427 West Avenue, away from the hustle and bustle of Ocean Drive, Barton G. features a sleek and trendy dining area in a lush tropical garden ideal for alfresco dining.

Joe’s Stone Crab - To most, this place has become a rite of passage, a phenomenon - and that’s no surprise. First opened in 1913, Joe Weiss started with a small lunch counter on Miami Beach, back when Miami Beach was just a quiet, backwater town. Folks stopped in to chat and for a top-notch fish sandwich and fries. Since then, no visit to Miami has been complete without a stop at Joe’s - the home of the famed Stone Crab Claws. Now occupying an entire city block, everyone from local Floridians to celebrities make their way to this place to chow down on the celebrated stone crab that’s in all its glory here (stick to the medium claws for the best flavor and quality). Here are a few things to know: the lines are long (no reservations, ever), the drinks are strongs, the food is fresh and the dining areas are packed. If you don’t feel like waiting, Joe’s as a take-away option. Located at 11 Washington Avenue.

Spris - A virtuous Italian pizzeria and more, Spris (pronounced “sprees”) is named after the famous aperitif from the Veneto Region. Spris has been awarded “Best Pizza” by the Miami New Times, considered “Best Gourmet Pizza” by Sun Post and received an “Excellent” critique by the Zagat Survey. Check out Spris, located at 723 Lincoln Road. Oh, insomniacs rejoice! Spris’ doors are open till 3 a.m.!

Social Miami - Located in The Sagamore Hotel (at 1671 Collins Ave), Social Miami is a modern version of the classical European dining scene, offering a destination where people gather and share in the joys of living - flirting, good food, drink and conversation. Offering the ultimate culinary/lounge experience, with art installations, two-person living rooms, a game room and pool lounge, Social is the newest venture from China Grill that has quickly become the place to see-and-be-seen. This place is sleek, swanky and sexy and offers small-plate specialties that include Peruvian Seafood ceviche,mini kobe burgers, and lamb cigars.

Magnum Lounge - Don’t judge this classic piano-bar-meets-restaurant from the outside alone…once inside, guests are overwhelmed with the fresh smell of food, dimmed lights, flickering candles and romance in the air. Magnum will remind you of a 1920’s romantic bordello, with its red and black paint, red leather booths and large mirrors. This is a place where singers belt out show tunes while the Nip/Tuck crowd rubs elbows (and other parts) with the rest of the guests. Sweet sounds of piano fill the space as folks indulge in fresh Buffalo mozzarella and seared Ahi Tuna. Located at 709 NE 79th St.

Bars & Nightlife

SkyBar - In LA, this place is an absolute legend among professional “loungers” - and Miami’s version (located at the Shore Club at 1901 Collins Ave.) has quickly reached the same celebrated status. Set up in the hotel’s pool area, SkyBar is a Moroccan-themed open-air hideaway that boasts a wealth of lounging areas that will satisfy a number of moods. We love relaxing on the comfy lounges and gazing at the star filled sky above. You might see three ugly people out of the five hundred patrons that turn up that night. Celebrity spottings include Matthew McConaughey, Lance Armstrong, NBA stars, and we could go on and on here.

Nocturnal - When South Beach is closing down around 2am, head downtown to this mega club to keep the gold times rolling. Within its 20,000 square feet, Nocturnal boasts three floors and incorporates all the elements of a serious “dance club” with all the elements of a major stage production. Showcasing one of the best sound systems in the world, this place draws top DJ talent and serious electronic music fans. Its location in downtown Miami also allows it to operate well past the city’s usual 4am closing time. Why are so many people wearing sunglasses even at night? Because when that sun comes up at 6am they want to shield their tired eyes from daylight. Nocturnal is located at 50 NE 11th St. Celebrity spottings: Jamie Foxx, Mariah Carey, Timbaland, and Pharrell. More info at www.nocturnalmiami.com

Pawn Shop Lounge - Tired of the superficial pretentious set in South Beach? Head downtown where the party never ends at Pawn Shop (located at 1222 NE 2nd Ave.). Part lounge, part club, part…uhmmm…edgy dive bar, Pawn Shop delivers an authentic experience with a diverse crowd. As the name implies, tt’s a wonderland mix of nostalgic furniture, collectibles, historic pop culture icons and secondhand items - all of which act as living art. Guests here can suck down drinks in a 1977 school bus, jump aboard a vintage Boeing 727 jet airplane fuselage or set up camp in a 1960s hippie trailer. The club attracts both the millionaires of Miami as well as the local Indie Folk. You’ll love the musical mashups and the diverse crowd that leaves their attitudes at home. More info at www.thepawnshoplounge.com

Club Space - Miami’s international super-club (which has been voted the #1 nightclub in the US by DJ Mag’s Top 50 Clubs in The World) features the hottest DJs from all over the world such as Sasha, Pete Tong, Deep Dish and Paul Van Dyke. For the ultimate clubbing experience, Space takes things to another level - with everything bigger (rooms, sound and events). Club Space is a warehouse-turned-club (30,000 sq. ft.) that boasts a bi-level, high-energy experience (Miami’s loudest sound system and dazzling light show) and attracts more than its share of the hipster crowd looking to dance the night away (they pretty much never close) and watch the sun rise over SoBe. We also love the terrace upstairs. There is a dress code here and it is enforced (no baggy shirts, $20 jeans, hats, etc.). Club Space is located at 34 NE 11th St.

Nikki Beach - A trendy Saint Tropez-style beachfront bar where friends meet and friends are made under the swaying palm trees, an alcove of tee-pees, cabanas, and exotic bamboo beds. The Nikki Beach Sunday afternoon beach soirees are as infamous as the nightlife itself! A perfectly-tanned clientele of impresarios, models, playboys and jetSetters are often found sipping Pina Coladas and looking to see who else is looking. Talk about the perfect way to spend your Sunday (or any other day of the week, for that matter), this place (located at 1 Ocean Drive, and the Southern most tip of South Beach) has been called the “Sexiest Place on Earth.” It brings a feeling of inner pleasure & delight that radiates throughout the crowd - where time escapes you and you never wish to leave.

Pearl Restaurant & Champagne Lounge - When the sun goes down on Nikki Beach, you can head upstairs and inside to their sister lounge, Pearl. Combining the chic ambiance of Miami nightlife with a sophisticated dining experience, Pearl draws everyone from celebrities to business tycoons to socialites. Sip on exquisite champagnes and consume amazing fare like fire-roasted shrimp or duck - all in an amber-hued decor. With the latest international rhythms playing in the background, Pearl is adorned in orange and white and features polka-dot tables, bubbling water walls, and a champagne bar surrounded by giant seashell-inspired furnishings. Pearl’s prime “beautiful people” turf is full of the rich, thin and hip clientele. Pearl is located at 1 Ocean Drive.

Buck15 - Fan of that 70’s show? We have found your haven. Buck 15 is an underground bar and lounge designed as if it came straight out of Austin Powers. The place has also earned a reputation for attracting a crowd of hipsters, models, locals and chic visitors - all of whom can relax on funky orange and brown sofas while sipping on champagne and appreciating the vibrant art adorning the walls. Artists such as the Black Eyed Peas have graced the stage of this underground venue influencing the guests to begin a break-dancing competition in the middle of the dance floor. Buck 15 is known for its themed nights (check out www.buck15.com). Oh, and here’s another tip: the entrance is at 707 Lincoln Lane, not on Lincoln Road.

Churchill’s Pub - Dubbed “The Church” by locals and known for its austere exterior and interior, Churchill’s Pub doubles as a quirky British sports pub. For the past 20 years, this local bar and music venue has been the place to find the locals enjoying a lager, indulging in Shepard’s Pie and watching new music talent unfold in front of their eyes. Its small stage and intimate 350-person capacity space has hosted an array of first-ever gigs for many of today’s most recognizable acts such as Marilyn Manson and The Mavericks (Iggy Pop filmed his last live video here). Churchill’s Pub is located at 5501 NE 2nd Ave.

Studio A - We don’t like anything to be cookie-cutter and neither does Studio A. Miami’s premier live music rock venue, Studio A often caters to the off-the-mainstream crowd. The place offers music that ranges from alt-country to novices to cult rock bands and features a large dance floor. The impressive strobe and spotlights highlight happy faces from the crowd singing along to the tunes and moving to the constant beats. Studio A is located at 60 NE 11th St.

Rose Bar - Talk about an ideal people-watching place, this swanky SoBe mainstay is where guests can view each other through the proverbial rose-colored glasses - a unique touch that flatters the appearance-conscious crowd at this glamorous and sophisticated space that’s a perfect spot for a drink and quiet conversation. Lounge music sets the mood here as international beauties and celebrity-types sip Cosmos and mingle their way throughout the lounge and outdoor terrace. In case hunger rears its head, there’s an excellent sushi bar that can be found right next door. Rose Bar is located at 1685 Collins Ave.

Mynt - An uber trendy lounge, Mynt has been attracting the creme de la creme mix of models, celebs, and hip partygoers for over two years. As the name suggests, the decor is that of a smooth light green and black, and the furniture has a futuristic feel to it (both of which is difficult to describe unless you’ve been there). The club even has its own wine cellar. While the crowd sips on Kiwi martinis and Dom Rose champagne, beats of house and hip-hop fill the walls of this exclusive club. We love this gem on Wednesday nights, but keep in mind it doesn’t even open until around midnight. Mynt is located at 1921 Collins Ave.

Ted’s Hideaway - Talk about a true local hang-out! This dive bar is always a good choice when you want to get away from the plastic crowds and sip on whatever you want, without feeling that you have to order the latest hip martini. Ted’s Hideaway has cheap drink specials, and cute bartenders. Guys show off their latest skills playing pool, while the girls order shots of Red Snappers. For a fun laid-back time, definitely check this place out. Located at 124 2nd Street.

Sanctuary Hotel’s Roof Lounge - Located atop the Sanctuary Hotel (Miami Beach’s First Female-Friendly Hotel), this lounge is the best kept-secret in town (hmmm…guess not anymore!) This launch-pad has served as a great place to pre-game the early hours of the night. Women are quite fond of this relaxed spot to start the night off slowly, sippin on the bubbly and laughing with friends (hint-hint to all you guys). No expense was spared in making this hotel a truly chic retreat (along with the lounge) and the cabana-type seating makes it definitely stand out from the rest. So regardless of where the night may take you, check out Sanctuary’s Roof Lounge to get your night started (located at 1735 James Ave.).

La Covacha - Miami’s #1 Latin nightclub where couple’s show off their sexy dance routines till the early hours of the morning, La Covacha boasts a rump-shakin’ mix of Salsa, Merengue and Reggeaton which resonate throughout each and every corner of this incredible, up-market night spot. And if the dancing has your taste buds stirring, the kitchen serves traditional Cuban cuisine and funkier fare such as “disco sushi.” Tip: Start your weekend off right, arrive at 10730 NW 25th St. on Friday night early between 5-8 p.m. - during La Covacha’s 2-for-1 Happy Hour specials! More info at: www.lacovacha.com

Martini Bar - A musically inclined spot for lunch, dinner, martini specials and a late night bite. Live jazz and blues play at this trendy lounge (adjoining the party-hearty hall of hedonism - Iguana Cantina). Guests here relax in plush couches while enjoying crab rangoons and popular specialty martinis like “Sex with an accent.” Hello…Two-for-one Martini Happy Hour on Wednesdays and Fridays. Located at 3390 Mary St.

Stop Miami - Finally - a Bar/Restaurant that offers free parking for those nights when you do have your own wheels. The owner is a clever man who has designed this hotel in a style of Barcelona meets LA. At Stop Miami, you’ll find fun pop-art adorning the walls, people mingling over sake martinis at the hand-made wooden bar and both DJ’s and live acts rotating nightly to give everyone something different to look forward to. But, here’s a tip: Want to share your favorite songs from your iPod? Come to Stop Miami during the day and hand over your MP3 player to the DJ who will gladly play your music. Stop Miami is located at 3533 NE 2nd Ave. and yes you need the Northeast part in the address or the cab drivers will yell at you.

Opium Garden - Located in Miami Beach’s Famous “South of Fifth” neighborhood, Opium Garden is a gorgeous far eastern-styled outdoor venue (housed just below Prive) that’s one of the top spots in SoBe (especially on a Wednesday night). Opium Garden offers and Indonesian-inspired menu (for those who come to eat)-though the main lure is definitely the scene. Surrounded by Asian-inspired decor, visitors here are transported into a world of Zen with pagodas, golden Buddha statues, Chinese laterns towering palm trees and an attractive crowd. Housing the city’s most comprehensive sound and lighting systems. Opium is a feast for the eyes for many reasons and a perfect spot for drinking and dancing. Located at 136 Collins Ave.

Prive - Located above the Opium Garden (at 136 Collins Ave.), is one of Miami’s most exclusive venues - mixing upscale lounge with high energy club. The two-level venue is decked out with Chinese Buddhas and lanterns, giving it a very Asian flair. Prive often plays host to the rich and famous offering the best of the best (sound system being one of them). Standing outside in line here, you’re bound to catch a celebrity ducking under the velvet rope. Tip: Since the place is typically packed with eager guests trying to gain entry, try to arrive early, well dressed and always in mixed groups. Reservations and bottle service are recommended for this posh club.

M-Bar at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel - Located on Miami’s famed waterfront (at 500 Brickell Key Dr.), this place is a must visit when you’re in town - even if you’re staying someplace else! The spot at the pool is hopping day and night as Miami’s finest soak up the rays and then show off their golden tan in the evening. The bartenders are great (Tito makes an amazing Litchi Colada - the hotel’s specialty) and can mix any cocktail of your dreams. The view in the evening is equally spectacular as you can spy the luxury house boats floating past you while the sun sets over the Atlantic Ocean. There’s also a sushi and sashimi bar, as well as a full menu of other choices. You’ll also find a private beach just steps away - which can be your very own tree-shaded sandy oasis complete with lounge chairs and hammocks. More info: at:www.mandarinoriental.com

Upstairs at the Van Dyke - This happening spot (the cafe’s jazz bar) is located on the second floor and is home to local and celeb blues and Jazz artists. Upstairs resembles a classy speakeasy in which local performers play to an intimate crowd. Sophisticated revelers relax in the comfortable lounge, tapping their feet to the rhythmic piano sounds and sipping on their shaken (not stirred) dry martinis until the wee hours. Shows at the Van Dyke start at 9, 10:30 p.m. and midnight with tickets ranging between $6-20. Van Dyke is located at 846 Lincoln Rd.

The Biltmore Bar - One of Miami’s best-kept-secrets, it’s no surprise that one of South Florida’s most romantic bars is in one of the city’s most romantic hotels. Folks flock to this city landmark that boasts a dimly lit ambiance, high ceilings and beautifully designed floors. Like everything else in this 75-year old opulent destination, the bar is plush and inviting. In addition to guests at the hotel and regulars who relish the refuge from the usual nighttime scene, trend-Setters come out for “What’s Hip Wednesdays”, a weekly celebration of style and style-makers. The Biltmore Lounge is located at 1200 Anastasia Ave.

Shoutout to Bob and Matt for their excellent advice!

Written by journeypod.com - your guide to luxury travel around the world. We give you VIP access to the hippest hotels, the hottest nightlife, and the coolest restaurants. It’s the insiders guide to luxury and vip access around the world.

 

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