http://www.ztoa.org/ Articles at Ztoa Information Site en-us http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/australian-fundraising-for-overseas-holidays.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/australian-fundraising-for-overseas-holidays.html Wed, 08 Sep 2010 10:38:42 +0530
But alas these trips, as great as they are, are also very expensive. Travelling to another country involves pricey airfares, accommodation, food and sightseeing expenditures. This all adds up. In a number of cases, the parents don't simply have thousands of dollars lying around to put towards their kids club holiday, and the organisations will normally be far from being able to subsidise the trip. That is where fundraising comes into play.

Fundraising in Australia comes in many shapes and sizes. There are the traditional fundraiser activities such as raffles, bake sales, trivia nights, chocolate drives and auctions, but there are also a number of fundraising events which are unique to Australia. The great southern land has a number of unique sports, such as Aussie Rules footy, and a vast number of young groups travelling overseas are junior football teams. Their fundraising efforts are consistently based around "footy", which is obviously what they are most passionate about.

When fundraising Australia style, some of the ideas that footy clubs come up with include selling famous football memorabilia, hosting celebrity footy games, sausage sizzles, and themed footy parties. Top level football players are only too happy to sign uniforms and balls which can be auctioned off at the clubs charity nights. These star players know only too well the importance of grass roots football, and want to give back to the game that has treated them so well.

Other sports such as netball, basketball and cricket also have similar themed fundraising events, using the popular appeal of their chosen sports to help them raise money for their overseas holiday. They always put on a good show because the area which they focus on is very close to their heart and they know how to make it work. Especially if you are part of a sports team, you know all about teamwork and working together which will help you get the most out of your fundraising efforts.

It is important, when planning an overseas holiday for your organisation, to work out exactly what your goals are before you start. Knowing exactly how much money each person needs to make can determine whether a holiday destination is feasible. If your target is too far away, you may need to settle for a trip to New Zealand instead of America. Whatever the case, plan carefully and follow through with enthusiasm. And you will be on your exciting club holiday in no time! ]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/experience-the-rich-culture-of-volcano-national-park-in-rwanda.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/experience-the-rich-culture-of-volcano-national-park-in-rwanda.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:47:09 +0530
The park was first found in 1925 as a small area bounded by Karisimbi, Visoke and Mikeno. The primary intentions of the park were to protect gorillas from poachers. It became the first National Park in Africa to be created, which brings with it a great deal of history that must be seen.

Many recognize the park based off of the famous American naturalist Dian Fossey, who took her conducted her research on gorillas here. She arrived in 1967 and set up the Karisoke Research Centre, which is another site-seeing destination you must take in. She is widely credited for saving the gorillas from extinction. Following her horrific murder by unknown assailants in 1985, her life was portrayed in the film Gorillas in the Mist.

There is a great deal of wildlife to view when visiting Volcano national park. Outside of the mountain gorilla you will also find golden monkeys, black-fronted duiker, buffalo and bushbuck. There have been sites of elephants in the park, but they are actually quite rare today. And as for birds, there are 178 recorded bird species to enjoy.

Tourism in the park has picked up greatly over the years thanks to the beautiful views and tremendous options available to offer. Gorilla visits are atop the list with four habituated groups open to tourists giving you the opportunity to spend an hour with the gorillas.

Climbing Karisimbi volcano is another extremely popular activity as it provides a thrill unlike anything else you will ever experience. The two day trek with overnight camping at an altitude of 3,800 m is just not something you get to do frequently. You can also climb Bisoke volcano in one day if you would prefer not to stay the night.

There are some magnificent lakes and caves scattered throughout the park that are deserving of attention. And because of the extraordinary story and everything Dian Fossey has done for the gorillas and the country as a whole, many pay tribute to Fossey by visiting her tomb.

Volcano national park in Rwanda offers tourists an incredible adventure full of sites, animals, and rich history. From the lakes to the volcanoes to the remarkable mountain gorillas, there is no question it will be a trip unlike any other.


]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/sites-and-sounds-to-take-in-while-visiting-akagera-national-park-in-rwanda.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/sites-and-sounds-to-take-in-while-visiting-akagera-national-park-in-rwanda.html Thu, 02 Sep 2010 20:32:03 +0530
Akagera national park is located at the lower altitudes of the Tanzanian border. What you will find is that it is dominated mostly by swamps and lakes that are actually quite magnificent. All of the swamps and lakes follow the course of the Akagera River, which is one of the main sources of the River Nile.

Something that you must do while visiting the national park is take in all of the animals that surround the area. Giraffes and zebras flood the savannah with more than a dozen different types of antelope as well. It is not often you have the opportunity to see the world's largest antelope in person, which is the eland.

In addition to giraffes, zebras and antelopes, you will also find pods of hippopotami and incredibly large crocodiles basking in the sun. Some of the continent's most crowded levels of water birds fill the lake shores while the marshes play home to some of the most endangered bird species in the world.

In addition to the large concentration of animals including elephants, lions, buffalos, gazelles, baboons and more, there is a number of other things to take in. In order to really take in everything the region has to offer, camping can be a terrific way to enjoy it all. It is often recommended that you talk with park officials to find safe areas prior to parking your tent somewhere in the park.

While camping, you can take on some terrific fishing with gorgeous lakes and rivers full of various kinds of fish. It can be a nice relaxing way to experience the outdoors while having fun in the sun with family and friends.

Believe it or not, you can actually experience a little bit of tennis while in the park as well. The Akagera game lodge has tennis courts to swing the racket and get a little exercise while on vacation as well.

The simple fact of the matter is that Akagera national park in Rwanda is full of various activities to partake in, sites to see and animals to experience. It truly is a once in a lifetime adventure that you do not want to miss out on.


]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/take-a-holiday-for-the-senses-on-the-greek-island-of-paxos.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/take-a-holiday-for-the-senses-on-the-greek-island-of-paxos.html Mon, 30 Aug 2010 03:34:36 +0530
According to Greek Mythology, Paxos was created by Poseidon when he struck Corfu with his trident in effort to gain peace and quiet. The pebble beaches of Paxos are surrounded by sheer, precipitous cliffs that create scenery that is both breathtaking and expressive.

The sea around Paxos has vivid colors; it is pleasantly clean, clear, and cool. Dramatic fauna and flora are abundant, especially in spring. Ancient olive trees line the hillsides allowing the mind and senses escape to the treasure of comfort and beauty that awaits vacationers.

Traveling the Island

Paxos is charming and quaint and can be traveled easily in a couple of days by motorbike or car. The three main towns on the island are Logos, Laka, and Gaios. All of which exhibit the classic Hellenic Ionian style with bright and colorful homes lining the promenades.

The rural area environment has a landscape that features low stone homes surrounded by bountiful and lush gardens. There is always something beautiful to see and many photo opportunities while you're sightseeing or walking.

The three main resorts all have natural harbors; Gaios being the biggest and busiest. Traveling farther inland you will find old churches and buildings and many hiking or biking trails if you seek to further explore the island's rich history.

Accommodations in Paxos and Things to Do

Travel around the entire island on a day or half day cruise. Picturesque wind-carved limestone cliffs, sculptural rock formations, and caverns line the way. Crystal clear, calm waters surrounding the island only add to the exquisite beauty.

A bit of history from World War II is just off the island. Inside the cave called Papanikolis, a Greek submarine found refuge and hiding during the war. The vessel known as "Stephanos I" will allow anyone who desires to swim near the cave.

There is plenty of opportunity to swim, snorkel and relax. This island is wonderful for travelers seeking relaxation and to get away from the rest of the world, and the weather is similar to the weather in Crete - another holiday island.

The locals are all very friendly and happily greet visitors. A spectacular sunset can be seen by traveling to Erimitis, a bar which sits above the cliffs of the west coast.

Paxos is a worthwhile day trip if you don't have a lot of time, but want to escape for a bit. There are many hiking and biking paths that go around the island via trails, coves, and beaches.

You can easily take in the un-hurried, traditional, and tranquil Greek lifestyle. Many people visit this wonderful island because of the miles of pathways that lead to unspoiled, secluded beaches and coves.

Accommodations in Paxos fill quickly during peak travel season. Accommodations generally include rental of a room in a villa or an entire villa. Many villas have private pools.

The island also has two hotels that often receive rave reviews from happy guests. Regardless of your lodging choice, you will not want to stay inside with such a picturesque joy all around you.

A Holiday Worth Every Kilometer

The island of Paxos is only 19 Kilometers, but it offers an intimate charm and beauty for those who crave quiet, peaceful relaxation. Retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday modern living and escape from it all. July and August comprise the peak travel season for holidaymakers. ]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/pick-up-for-cyprus-holidays-in-2010.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/pick-up-for-cyprus-holidays-in-2010.html Tue, 24 Aug 2010 07:20:05 +0530
The good news is welcome after two successive annual falls in tourist numbers - during 2008, Cyprus was the number 24 choice for a tourist destination. The majority of Brits holidayed in other European destinations, with a notable increase for Turkey, and 2009 saw a further drop in the number of holidaymakers who chose to visit Cyprus.

Unlike some Mediterranean islands Cyprus doesn't rely solely on tourism to fuel its economy - just over ten per cent of the country's revenue comes from tourism. About 2 million people visit Cyprus annually.

Year-to-Year Comparison

January and February saw a combined 11.1 percent drop in tourism and 14.2 percent drop in arrivals to the island. Britain is the main tourism market for Cyprus. The first half of 2009 saw a fall in British visitors of about 20 to 30 percent. And it's not the climate or Cyprus weather forecast that would have persuaded them to go elsewhere.

Monetary Issues

Some say monetary exchange rates were the main cause of the reduction of visitors from Britain. The exchange rate from euro to sterling was poor in both 2008 and 9, but this year has seen Sterling increase in value.

Most tourists look for low rates and great deals on travel packages. More than 50 percent of European tourists choose to spend their holiday time in more traditional spots. Either way, financially conscious holidaymakers are looking for the best value for their money.

Only about 25 percent of European vacationers prefer to visit less-known places. They prefer vacation destinations that are more quiet and remote. Some are in search of quiet, outdoor activities while others simply like to visit alternative locations from year to year.

A surprising number of people chose to stay home during this holiday. Three percent of those polled said they could not vacation this year without going in debt. The world-wide economic issues have caused many well-known vacation destinations to become less crowded during the 2009 and 2010 seasons. Most residents of Greece chose to vacation within the country this year instead of travelling abroad for example because of the country's debt crises and uncertainty over salaries and employment levels.

Some very inexpensive vacation destinations include South America, Hungary, Morocco and Thailand. Tourists who are watching their spending this holiday season may find a new and exciting destination at a fraction of the cost of their usual yearly vacation. Look for combination deals that include discounted air fare, rental car and hotel accommodations.

Most Popular Vacation Destinations

Most Europeans say they plan to travel to Spain, Italy or France next. Some of the most popular destinations are the Balearic Islands, Rome, London and Paris. The United States, Turkey and Croatia are also popular destinations for Europeans this year.

The Balearic Islands are comprised of a group of 5 islands in the Mediterranean Sea. The primary languages spoken are Spanish and Catalan but many natives have learned English to accommodate English-speaking visitors. The Balearics are well known as both a party and family destination. Crystal blue waters and sandy beaches await visitors to the islands.

Though more people are visiting Cyprus this year, next year may prove to be better still. The economy is starting a slow climb upward and people are learning to save for things they enjoy. Tourism in 2011 will likely see tourists and international travelers going back to their favorite destinations, including Cyprus and other Mediterranean islands. ]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/monaco-plans-for-a-greener-future.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/monaco-plans-for-a-greener-future.html Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:43:26 +0530
Elegance and flair attracts visitors from all walks of life. Holidaymakers can take pleasure in the delightful mixture of chic city living and first class beaches.

Monaco's Culture

Various cultural events await each tourist. Opera, ballet, art museums and concerts at places such as the Grimaldi Forum and Monte Carlo are just a few of the must-see cultural events. An abundance of cafes, indoor and outdoor dining, casinos, bars, and clubs can be found.

Five million travelers visit Monaco each year. Not only the wealthy, but the budget minded also seek beach front, all-inclusive hotels and carefree time alongside the world's chic and cultured.

Affordable Holiday Packages

The recent world economic decline has taken its toll on Monaco. It has currently set its aim toward budget conscious travelers. Currently hotels are promoting $500 packages to appeal to a wider audience of cost aware patrons.

Day trips to Monaco from France and Italy are currently being promoted. Visitors can take a speedy holiday to Monaco from France or Italy for around $100. One can visit art museums, the Eze Village, as well as take a city tour of Monte Carlo in a day.

The wealthy will still be able to enjoy their banks in Monaco plus the casinos, luxury yachts, and all inclusive hotels. The fact that Monaco is a tax haven can be an asset to both the wealthy and the budget traveller.

Monaco Foundation for the Environment

Prince Albert II of Monaco has recently announced the establishment of the "Monaco Foundation for the Environment." In other words, Monaco is set to go green. Elevators and escalators are being built into mountainsides to promote walking and reduce traffic. This is a valuable advantage to the day tripper and the budget traveller alike.

Prince Albert said, "Monaco may not be the biggest country in the world, but I am determined to show it can be among the most innovative in its approaches to environment." This newly found desire to be environmentally aware illustrates Monaco's resolve to cost effectiveness.

Monaco will always be a first class European country. Offering world class hotels for multi-millionaires, it sits well with the jet set life.

Whether you're searching for upscale fair or a cost friendly journey, Monaco is ready to offer something spectacular to all. An intriguing array of shops, restaurants, day and night life abound in Monaco.

Day trippers or those on a seven night trip can find a plethora of magnificence in the Mediterranean masterpiece that is Monaco. Being eco-friendly, cost effective and luxurious is the overall goal as people become more environmentally conscious when taking their vacations. ]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/intergenerational-vacations-on-the-rise-at-muskoka-resorts.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/intergenerational-vacations-on-the-rise-at-muskoka-resorts.html Mon, 16 Aug 2010 09:30:03 +0530 (www.shamrocklodge.com), a traditional Muskoka family resort in Port Carling, Ontario, has witnessed this trend first hand. "While much of our business at the Shamrock Lodge over the years has been comprised of family vacations, romantic couples weekends, conferences and resort weddings, seniors are becoming a larger part of our business. Seniors make great lodge guests. They like to vacation during the quieter times, especially the fall months, enjoying Muskoka's beautiful autumn colours and the wide range of fall events that take place each year. They also book more midweek stays and for longer periods of time than other resort guests. This summer, we've had the pleasure of hosting a significant number of grandparents vacationing with their grandchildren. Intergenerational travel is definitely on the rise." states Tim Bryant.

In 2004, an article in the Globe and Mail told of the increasing trend toward grandparents and grandchildren traveling together and the way this trend has influencing how some larger Ontario resorts and hotel properties operate. It reported that a travel survey conducted in 2003 by Yesawich, Pepperdine, Brown and Russell found that more than 30% of grandparents had travelled with their grandchildren in the past 12 months, and that 21% of those that took part in intergenerational travel did not include the children's parents. According to Statistics Canada, Canada has one of the fastest aging populations in the developed world. This older generation of Canadians has both the affluence and the leisure time to devote to travel and vacations. Over the last five years, leisure travel for Canada's baby boomers has increased more than 25% and, as the population ages the numbers will keep on growing. As well, industry studies have found that most trips taken by seniors are within a few hours driving distance from home, making Muskoka resorts a popular choice for Ontario seniors' vacations and intergenerational vacations.

To attract intergenerational or multigenerational travel groups, Ontario resorts need to appeal to both the older and the younger generation. Although seniors differ in their desires and abilities, many older guests appreciate the convenience of all-inclusive packages offered at some Ontario lakefront resorts, where meals and an assortment of diversions that appeal to a wide variety of ages are included along with lodge or cottage accommodations. Safety is always a top priority with grandparents vacationing with grandchildren and they will seek out resorts that offer a safe sand beach, pool and children's playground, along with a well-supervised children's program, to give grandparents a bit of a break.

Shamrock Lodge's Tim Bryant agrees that Ontario full-service lodges provide a great way for families to vacation together. "One reason our Muskoka resort is so popular with families, and with grandparents on vacation with their grandkids, is that everybody can do their own thing. The kids can have fun at our supervised kid's club, adults and older children can participate in exciting water sports, and older adults can simply relax and enjoy the activity and the beautiful Muskoka scenery. At meal times, the entire family can get together to catch up and enjoy a terrific meal. It is heart-warming to see grandparents, who have fond memories of vacationing at Shamrock Lodge years ago, return with their grandchildren so that they too can enjoy the same wonderful experience of a Muskoka lodge vacation," says Bryant.

Contact Information:
Tim Bryant
Shamrock Lodge
PO Box 160
Port Carling, Ontario P0B 1J0
Phone: (705) 765-3177
Toll free: 1-888-742-6742
shamrock@muskoka.com
http://www.shamrocklodge.com

]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/traditional-majorca-still-available.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/traditional-majorca-still-available.html Wed, 11 Aug 2010 02:27:11 +0530
On the one hand there is the image of Magaluf to consider. It's a town that attracts some but is a definite turn off for others.

And for tourists who prefer peace and quiet to a walk on the wild side, Magaluf is set to become even more of a party magnet as 'Mallorca Rocks' has opened - sister hotel to the successful 'Ibiza Rocks' just across the water.

Fantastic for the young, and young at heart who can discover Majorca as well as Ibiza. For those who like their clubbing and nightlife Mallorca Rocks will be the centre of a Majorca holiday for many of them.

And the Majorca hotels could benefit as stag weekends and hen parties view Majorca as an alternative to Ibiza, bringing in good revenue year round from young Europeans with disposable incomes.

Flights to the island are not expensive, and with airlines operating from many regional airports from the UK, Ireland and mainland Europe, for students and other young people the cheap Majorca flights could see visitor numbers in this age group rise considerably this year.
But for couples and families who don't want 24 hour partying, and are looking for a good relaxing sunshine holiday, is Majorca a good destination for them this year?

The answer is a definite yes, there's another side to the island that's ideal, and if they choose the right location it would be hard to imagine they're on the same island as party loving Magaluf - but they would still get the good deal for their Majorca flights.

When looking at a map, on the north-west side of the island is Soller. And it is here that holidaymakers can escape to another world, and it's quiet enough to enjoy while having a good amount of activities going on, to be enjoyed year round.

A tram connects the port to the town, and Deia - another village ideal for family holidays - is closeby, and there is a train that runs through the wonderful Majorca countryside to the capital Palma - a great day out enjoyed by many staying in Soller either in one of the hotels or Majorca villa holidays.

The port is a wonderful place to while away a few hours, with yachts calling in from all over Europe. The harbour area has a good amount of restaurants and cafes serving a variety of food including local dishes all day, and there are also apartments to rent with sea views here for holidaymakers.

If you want a holiday that's good for all the family, you might want to consider Soller. ]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/luxury-yacht-charters-offer-unique-way-to-view-and-%23160%3Bthe-north-channel-of-georgian-bay.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/luxury-yacht-charters-offer-unique-way-to-view-and-%23160%3Bthe-north-channel-of-georgian-bay.html Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:39:17 +0530 (http://www.BoatingGeorgianBay.com), a comprehensive online information source for all things Georgian Bay.

There are now several companies that offer luxury yacht charters in the Georgian Bay & North Channel world class cruising grounds. If you are already a boater from anywhere in the world you can easily travel to this area and bareboat charter both sail or power yachts and experience this beautiful cruising destination without the trouble of moving your boat hundreds of miles or perhaps across oceans to see this spectacular location in the heart of Ontario Canada. Boaters from Michigan and Illinois cruise by the hundreds every summer to the North Channel, perhaps not realizing that they can charter a beautiful luxury yacht on site for less than the price of the fuel cost of moving their own boat there.

If you've never set foot on a boat before you can charter fully crewed yachts at a reasonable cost - competitive with any quality land based vacation, but you will be rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous who visit the area in their own yachts. Your Captain will see to it that your cruise is trouble free and that every meal is a gourmet experience and cocktails are fittingly served at anchor with every perfect sunset. This is a lifetime experience and this type of adventure is one that should be on every persons bucket list if they've ever dreamed of cruising on a private yacht. Both power and sailboats range in size from 33' to 50' but the one thing in common is they are all meticulous in their maintenance of their yacht fleets.

Boating Georgian Bay http://www.BoatingGeorgianBay.com is an excellent site to get a taste of what Georgian Bay and the North Channel has to offer those that wish to experience the area. Spectacular photography provides a window in to the same type of scenery that you can expect to see on your visit. There is also a section that features yacht charter information and links to charter companies.   

Contact Information:
Mark Coles
Boating Georgian Bay
First Page SEO
PO Box 525
Minden ON K0M 2K0
(705) 286-3656
info@BoatingGeorianBay.com
http://www.BoatingGeorgianBay.com

]]> http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/the-muskokan-resort-club-announces-unique-new-boat-club-concept.html http://www.ztoa.org/travel/vacations/the-muskokan-resort-club-announces-unique-new-boat-club-concept.html Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:06:08 +0530 (http://www.muskokanclub.com), a fractional ownership development of luxury villas on the shores of prestigious Lake Joseph, in the heart of Muskoka, has introduced an exciting new concept in boat ownership that provides The Muskokan Resort Club owners with carefree and affordable boating. The Muskokan Resort Boat Club gives The Muskokan Club owners the opportunity to enjoyment all aspects of boat ownership, without the hassle and high costs associated with boat ownership. The program allows for turnkey boating at a fraction of the cost of traditional boat ownership, with no maintenance. The Muskokan Resort Club is the first fractional development to offer this brand of carefree boat-ownership. Touchstone and Red Leaves, two competing luxury Muskoka interval ownership resorts, do not offer their members this benefit.

Membership in The Muskokan Resort Boat Club is included with the purchase of a Muskokan Resort Club shared ownership interval. During their Muskokan vacation weeks, Resort Club owners will have access to the Boat Club's boats on a reservation basis. The resort developer will pay the initiation Boat Club fee and the first year's annual dues of the two year renewable membership. Thereafter, the member only pays for the annual dues for subsequent years. Boat Club dues are $1,000 to $2,000 per year and include three weeks of boating use, far less than the cost of renting a boat of equivalent quality. Boats will be available for members use at The Muskokan's docks from May 15th through to October 15th. Currently, The Muskokan Club owners can dock their own boats at the resort. However, owners are responsible for the hauling, launching, maintenance and the inconvenience of removing their boat at the end of each stay.

The Muskokan Boat Club will be professionally administered through Pride Marine Group, Muskoka's largest boat dealership. With five locations, Pride Marine Group has served Ontario's cottage country for 25 years and is known for its reputable service. The Muskokan Boat Club owner members can select from the club's fleet of desirable high-end boats, such as Nautiques, Chapparal Xtreme and EdgeWater. These boats have an average purchase price of $65,000. Boats will be rotated through the program at an interval of three years or less, guaranteeing members the ultimate in safety and comfortable boating.

"In keeping with The Muskokan's concept of totally carefree resort club ownership, we decided that offering our vacation club owners the opportunity to experience carefree boating was the next logical step," states The Muskokan Club's Walter Prychidny. "Members of the Muskokan Resort Boat Club will have the opportunity to take advantage of this boat program that removes the expense and hassle of boat ownership, providing more leisure time to maximize their enjoyment on the water. Boating and Muskoka are synonymous and Lake Joseph is one of Ontario's premier lakes. Just as shared ownership vacation properties offer a luxurious vacation lifestyle at a fraction of the price of whole-ownership; shared boat ownership also redefines the meaning of affordable leisure lifestyle. Fractional ownership is the smartest way I know to own a second home, and now in Muskoka, to own a boat," says Prychidny.

Contact Information:
Walter Prychidny
The Muskokan Resort Club
3876 Hwy 118 West
Port Carling, ON P0B 1J0
1-866-960-9016
416-960-9016
info@muskokanclub.com
http://www.muskokanclub.com

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