Digital Nomads Working Remotely

Digital Nomads Working Remotely

Remote Work in Finland Compared to Portugal

What you will need

o work effectively as a remote worker or digital nomad, a reliable mobile broadband connection is essential. During my time in Finland, I found that both Telia and Elisa offer mobile broadband through 4G SIM cards. In 2020, you could get a basic 1 Mb/s 4G connection for around €12 per month. A faster 100 Mb/s 4G connection was available for about €20 to €24 per month.

Telia now offers a 5G service priced at €39.90 per month, increasing to €44.90 per month after the first 12 months. This service provides speeds of up to 450 Mbps and includes unlimited data. Similarly, in Portugal, MEO is offering data cards for around €20, making the cost of mobile broadband quite comparable between the two providers.

Accommodation in Finland was expensive, especially in the days before Airbnb. My first apartment in Helsinki cost €2,000, but I soon moved to a smaller apartment that cost €1,400. I prefer renting apartments because they allow me to connect to the internet and process my photographs, and they also come with cooking facilities.

Old Town Helsinki in Winter

Currently, a monthly Airbnb rental for an entire place in Helsinki ranges from €800 to €1,200 during the low season, while in Portugal, a good apartment averages between €600 and €1,000 per month. Food and drink in Finland is expensive, with weekly groceries for self-catering costing about €20. Beer costs around €6 to €8, whereas in Portugal these costs are almost halved. During my time working in Lisbon in 2017, I found that dining out was relatively affordable. Local restaurants typically charged between €10 and €14 for a meal. I rarely spent more than €1.50 on coffee or €2.50 on beer. Grocery shopping in supermarkets was very inexpensive, although I had to switch to a few different brands since not all British products were available in Portugal.

Rethymnon with old lighthouse and fishing boats

Recently, most of my travel photography work has taken place in Europe, which has prompted me to consider relocating there. Portugal stands out to me as a great option due to its warm climate, friendly people, delicious food, and historic cities. Additionally, the country offers fast and reliable Wi-Fi and an affordable cost of living. Moreover, Portugal is known for being one of the safest and most inclusive countries in Europe.

he Algarve, located in the southern coastal region of Portugal, has long been a suitable choice for digital nomads and traveling photographers, especially in Lagos. However, it has not yet become a major hotspot for digital nomads. This is beginning to change, with Lagos emerging as the primary destination for those seeking a nomadic lifestyle.

Locations for Nomads

Lagos is one of many locations for digital nomads to consider, the coastal town of the Algarve are there for you to explore.

  • Olhão is one of southern Portugal’s traditional towns, Nestled along a cliffside. As the largest fishing port in the region, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Olhão is an ideal place to be tempted by its delicious seafood.
  • Carvoeiro is another picture-perfect destination. Even most travel photographers will be able to capture great pictures here.
  • Ferragudo, located across the Arade River from Portimão and west of Carvoeiro, is easily one of the most beautiful seaside villages in the Algarve and a favorite of Instagrammers
  • Cabo de São Vicente Wild, rugged, and isolated, the Cape of Saint Vincent is a powerful destination for surfing and travel photography
  • Aljezur and Vicentina Coast the northwestern coast of the Algarve is a favorite among surfers and nature-lovers. this part of the Algarve will offer a different view of the typical beaches and colorful cliffs normally expected from south Portugal.
  • Ilha de Tavira, the town of Tavira is a charming and quiet retreat from the usual crowds and resorts of the Algarve, but the Ilha de Tavira, or Tavira Island, is extra special. This sandbar is part of the Ria Formosa system yet stands out with its 12 kilometers of white-sand beaches
  • Peniche – Peniche is a surf town at heart. In fact, the Peniche surf is considered some of the very best in all of Europe
  • Largo – Pretty much the only co-working option in Peniche, Largo is located in a quiet area of the old district. Simple, friendly and affordable,
  • Coimbra – If it’s history and culture you’re after as a digital nomad in Portugal, Coimbra is worth checking out

Praia do Camilo Beach Portugal
Praia do Camilo Beach Portugal

Visas

Portugal is a vibrant country located on the western edge of Europe, proudly part of the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Agreement. This status means that travelers arriving from other EU nations can effortlessly enjoy the beauty of Portugal without the hassle of visa applications. You will have the right to explore, work, and settle in this enchanting land. In a warm gesture following Brexit, Portugal Tourism has reaffirmed its commitment to welcoming British visitors, inviting you to experience the captivating culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history that make Portugal an unforgettable destination. Discover the warmth of the Portuguese people and the charm of its cities, all while feeling right at home!

 

Digital Nomad Locations

Madeira is emerging as a premier destination for digital nomads, Madeira is  Portuguese and is part of Portugal, it is renowned for its incredibly low living and travel costs, which are among the most affordable in Western Europe. Additionally, the region offers a remarkable safety record, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a secure and comfortable lifestyle. Coupled with a warm and inviting climate, it’s easy to see why the island is gaining popularity among remote workers.

The Madeira Islands provide an inspiring work environment, where you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying panoramic views of the sparkling ocean and majestic mountains.  

 

 

 

Weather in Portugal

The climate in Portugal varies significantly from north to south and between coastal and inland areas. The southern region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild winters and hot summers. In the north, the coast benefits from the warming effects of the Gulf Stream, leading to mild winters and very warm summers. However, as you move further inland, summers become hotter while winter temperatures decrease, with the possibility of snow in some inland areas during the winter months.

Summer in Portugal

In the Algarve, summers are characterized by their dry and sunny weather, featuring an average of 12 hours of sunshine each day. Temperatures typically reach a maximum of 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit) and a minimum of 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). Although temperatures are slightly lower in northern Portugal, the region still enjoys about 11 hours of sunshine daily, and the cool sea breeze makes it an enjoyable destination for a summer getaway.
Benagil Cathedral at beautiful coast of Algarve, Portugal.
Smartphone Photography

Smartphone Photography

Unleash your smartphone’s camera capabilities and capture stunning photographs effortlessly. Equipped with multiple lenses, your phone offers endless opportunities for creative smartphone photography. Experiment with unique angles and perspectives to capture breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cityscapes.

Don’t hesitate to focus on objects in the foreground, adding a touch of bokeh to the background. Embrace the art of photography by seeking interesting subjects and creating dynamic compositions. With the right lighting, such as the soft hues of mid-morning or afternoon, your smartphone transforms into a professional tool, delivering remarkable and captivating images. Let your inner photographer shine as you capture the beauty of the world around you.

  • Look for a unique perspective by angling or tilting the phone to alter the perspective.
  • Make sure to focus on something, no matter what you are shooting.
  • Don’t be shy to focus on something in the foreground, as that may give the background scene a nice bokeh effect.
  • Adjust exposure if the scene is too bright or too dark after you tap to focus.
  • Take as many photos as you need to get the one you like most.
smartphone

 Dawn over St Malo taken on a smartphone

Use these principles, and you should achieve excellent results in your landscape photography. Remember, photography is all about experimenting, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right every time. When capturing your shot, find an anchoring point such as a church, buildings, interesting rocks, or shells on a beach.

You can also create additional perspective by photographing a person from a distance. Don’t limit yourself to placing the focal point in the middle of the frame; instead, look for a point or subject that complements the scene behind it. It can be objects or people. For a more dynamic composition, bring the camera closer to the foreground subject. Keep these tips in mind to enhance the quality and impact of your photographs.

Time of Day

The midday sun on a sunny day creates unfavorable conditions for capturing landscape photographs and outdoor shots, as the light becomes harsh. However, the ideal time for photography is in the mid-morning and afternoon, when a subtly yellow and delicate light fills the sky. This soft light enhances skin tones, prevents blown-out highlights, and eliminates harsh shadows, making it the perfect timeframe for capturing stunning images.

Experiment with black and white

Discover the limitless creative possibilities of your smartphone by shooting in black and white photography. Step beyond the confines of color and embrace a timeless and classic aesthetic that adds depth and emotion to your breathtaking landscape images. By eliminating distractions and focusing on subtle tones and lighting, even the most delicate nuances come to life, unveiling the hidden beauty within each scene. Let the power of simplicity elevate your smartphone photography.

Use a Tripod

Improve your smartphone photography skills with the Zeadio Smartphone Tripod Mount Adapter. This incredible accessory brings stability and flexibility to your photography, allowing you to capture stunning images effortlessly. Seamlessly connect your smartphone to the wireless remote shutter via Bluetooth.

The Zeadio tripod mount is designed for capturing landscapes and Instagram photos, ensuring you never miss the opportunity to freeze a perfect moment. With its adaptable design accommodating both landscape and portrait setups, the possibilities for your photography journey are endless. Take your skills to the next level with the Zeadio tripod mount and unlock a world filled with endless photographic opportunities.

Choose the right app for the job

Capture breathtaking photographs with ProCam X lite, the ultimate mobile photography tool that elevates your creativity to new heights. With complete control over exposure, focus, white balance, ISO, and other advanced camera features, ProCam X lite unleashes the true potential of your smartphone’s camera capabilities.

ProCam X lite

sql developer download for windows ✓ Install Oracle SQL Developer 21.4.1 Now!

Download SQL Developer for Windows: Get Started with Oracle Database Management

When we think about managing our Oracle databases, one of the best tools we can use is SQL Developer. If you’re looking for a straightforward way to get started, our Oracle SQL Developer installation guide will help you through the process. We can easily find the Oracle SQL Developer download for Windows 10 64-bit, which is perfect for those of us still using that operating system.

For those who have upgraded to Windows 11, we also have the SQL Developer download for Windows 11 available. This ensures that no matter which version of Windows we are using, we can access the powerful features of Oracle SQL Developer.

Speaking of features, Oracle SQL Developer offers a variety of functionalities that make database management a breeze. From running queries to managing database objects, we can do it all with this tool. So, whether we are beginners or experienced users, SQL Developer is a must-have in our toolkit for effective Oracle database management.

SQL Developer Download Versions

When we explore the different versions of SQL Developer, it’s essential to understand the options available for our needs. The Oracle SQL Developer version history provides us with insights into how the software has evolved over time.

We can choose between the Oracle SQL Developer 32-bit download and the Oracle SQL Developer 64-bit compatibility options based on our system requirements. This flexibility allows us to select the version that best fits our operating environment.

SQL Developer 21.4.1 Download

For those of us looking for the latest features, the SQL Developer 21c download is a great choice. This version comes with enhancements that streamline the Oracle SQL Developer update process, making it easier for us to keep our software up to date.

SQL Developer 23.1.1 Download

If we want to stay ahead with the newest updates, the Oracle SQL Developer version history shows that the SQL Developer download for Windows 11 is optimized for the latest operating system. This ensures we have access to all the latest functionalities and improvements.

How to Install SQL Developer on Windows?

Installing SQL Developer on Windows is a straightforward process, and we’re here to guide you through it. First, we need to ensure that we have everything set up correctly. Our Oracle SQL Developer installation guide will help us navigate through the steps easily.

Verify Proper Version of JDK is Installed

Before we dive into the installation, we must check if we have the correct version of the Java Development Kit (JDK) installed. The Oracle SQL Developer system requirements specify that we need JDK 8 or higher.

  • Steps to Verify JDK:
    1. Open Command Prompt.
    2. Type java -version and hit Enter.
    3. Ensure the version displayed is 1.8 or higher.

If we find that the JDK is not installed or is an incorrect version, we can download the Oracle SQL Developer offline installer for the appropriate JDK version.

Install Amazon Corretto Java 1.8

Once we have verified the JDK, we can proceed with the installation of Amazon Corretto Java 1.8. This is a recommended version for running SQL Developer smoothly. Following our Oracle SQL Developer installation guide, we can ensure that we adhere to the Oracle SQL Developer best practices during the installation.

  • Installation Steps:
    1. Download Amazon Corretto from the official website.
    2. Run the installer and follow the prompts.
    3. Set the JAVA_HOME environment variable to point to the installation directory.

Launching SQL Developer on Windows Computers

After completing the installation, we can now launch SQL Developer on our Windows computers. This tool comes packed with various Oracle SQL Developer features that enhance our database management experience.

  • To Launch SQL Developer:
    1. Navigate to the installation directory.
    2. Double-click on sqldeveloper.exe.
    3. If prompted, select the JDK path we installed earlier.

Additionally, we can explore the Oracle SQL Developer command line interface for advanced functionalities, allowing us to execute commands directly without the graphical interface. This can be particularly useful for those of us who prefer working in a command-line environment.

SQL Developer Compatibility

When we talk about SQL Developer compatibility, it’s crucial to know how it interacts with different systems. One of the key aspects we consider is the Oracle SQL Developer 64-bit compatibility. This version is designed to work seamlessly with 64-bit operating systems, ensuring that we can leverage the full power of our machines.

Understanding the differences between tools is also important. For instance, we often find ourselves comparing Oracle SQL Developer vs SQL*Plus. While both tools serve the purpose of database management, SQL Developer offers a more user-friendly interface and additional features that enhance our productivity.

SQL Developer Download for Windows 10 64-bit

For those of us using Windows 10, we can easily find the Oracle SQL Developer download for Windows 10 64-bit. This version is tailored to work perfectly with our operating system, making it one of the top choices among Windows 10 database tools.

Here’s a quick list of benefits we enjoy with this version:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Enhanced performance
  • Compatibility with various database versions

SQL Developer Download for Windows 11 64-bit

If we’ve upgraded to Windows 11, we can still enjoy the benefits of SQL Developer. The SQL Developer download for Windows 11 is specifically optimized for this operating system. With Oracle SQL Developer for Windows 11, we can take advantage of the latest features and improvements that come with the new OS.

Here’s what we can expect from this version:

  • Improved speed and efficiency
  • Support for the latest database technologies
  • Seamless integration with Windows 11 features

Additional Resources

When we think about enhancing our database experience, there are a couple of essential downloads we should consider.

Oracle Database Download

The Oracle Database download is a crucial step for anyone looking to manage their data effectively. With this download, we gain access to powerful Oracle database management tools that streamline our operations.

  • Key Features:
    • Robust data handling
    • Advanced security measures
    • Scalability for growing needs

We can also look into the Oracle SQL download to complement our database setup. This tool allows us to execute SQL queries efficiently, making our data manipulation tasks much easier.

Oracle Express Edition Download

For those of us who are just starting or need a lightweight solution, the Oracle Express Edition download is a fantastic option. This version is free and provides us with essential features to manage our databases without the overhead of a full installation.

  • Benefits of Oracle Express Edition:
    • Easy to install and set up
    • Ideal for learning and development
    • Supports basic database administration tasks

Additionally, we can utilize Oracle database administration software to help us manage our databases more effectively. This software provides us with tools to monitor performance, manage users, and ensure our databases run smoothly.

FAQ

When we have questions about Oracle SQL Developer, it’s great to have a place to find answers. The Oracle SQL Developer support community is a fantastic resource where we can connect with other users and get help with any issues we might encounter.

Can I download SQL Developer for free?

Absolutely! We can download SQL Developer for free, which is one of the best parts about it. However, it’s essential to check the Oracle SQL Developer licensing information to ensure we understand the terms. For those of us using Windows 11, we can easily find the Oracle SQL Developer download for Windows 11 64-bit version available for free.

How to install SQL Developer in Windows?

Installing SQL Developer in Windows is pretty straightforward. We can follow the Oracle SQL Developer installation guide to make sure we don’t miss any steps. If we run into any issues, the Oracle SQL Developer troubleshooting section can help us resolve them quickly.

Is Microsoft SQL Developer free?

When comparing tools, we often wonder about costs. While Microsoft SQL Developer is free, we should consider the differences between Oracle SQL Developer vs SQL Server Management Studio. Each tool has its strengths, and understanding these can help us choose the right one for our needs.

How do I download SQL for Windows?

Downloading SQL Developer for Windows is simple. We can find the Oracle SQL Developer download for Windows 10 64-bit and the Oracle SQL Developer download for Windows 11 64-bit options available. This ensures that no matter which version of Windows we are using, we can get the right download for our system.

Majorca Travel Guide

Majorca Travel Guide

Majorca 

Majorca is an island of contrasts from Valldemosa in the Tramuntana Mountain range, the 13th-century monastery in Valldemosa has links to the Polish composer Frederic Chopin,

On the coast such iconic locations like old Soller Town, Port de Soller, Port de Pollença, old Pollença town, Cala Sant Vicenç, Port d’Alcúdia, Ca’n Picafort, and old Alcudia Town with its town wall dating back to the fourteenth century.

Majorca has been part of the Byzantine Empire, Moorish Islam Empire and in many towns like Pollenca,  the Christian churches and monasteries have influences from the Knights of Malta, and many other faiths

Alcudia Beach Majorca

The Port d’Alcudia beach is situated in the north of Mallorca approx. 60 km from Palma de Mallorca and very close to the medieval town of Alcudia. Alcudia beach is a white sand beach and it is one of the island’s prestigious Blue Flag beaches. This nearly 3.5 km long beach has something for everyone.

In Alcudia bay, the water is very clean and generally calm, but occasionally waves can pick up from the north so it is important to keep an eye out for water conditions. The beach is widest at Port d’Alcudia, up to 100 metres wide. The sand is golden and fine-grained, and the very shallow water

Behind the beach, there is a seafront with hotels, restaurants, shops, cafes, and shop in the many tourist shops.

Port de Pollenca Majorca

Port de Pollenca beach is located in the north 10 km north of Alcudia, Port de Pollenca beach is nearly 1.5 km long, sandy beach that curves around the port and is surrounded by the Tramuntana mountains,  so this natural landscape adds a special quality to this beach. Port de Pollenca beach is a Blue Flag Beach.

In Port de Pollenca beach you will find plenty of the options where to eat or to have a drink. From easy burgers and fries to paellas, grilled fish.

The Pine Walk is a walkway that stretches for just over two miles, along Puerto Pollensa’s coastline. It gets its name from the pine trees that line the opposite side of the walkway, providing the perfect shade from the sunshine during the day

Restaurants in Port de Pollenca

Orange Express Train

On the north of Majorca in Old Soller town is the Orange Express, which is built in 1911 and goes through the Tramuntana mountains to Palma; the Orange Express runs from Soller railway station; there is also a tram to Port De Soller, built in 1913, it seems every time I visit Majorca, I end up photographing this remarkable train and tram.

The orange express was designed to take oranges and lemons to the Palma port for export, these days it a very popular tourist attraction.

On the 4th of October 1913, Mallorca’s first electric tram line, running between Sóller and the Port of Sóller, was inaugurated. The construction of the Sóller tram began after the inauguration of the Palma to Sóller railway line. One outstanding feature is the iron bridge over the Torrent Major.

Orange Express to Palma
Cap De Formentor Majorca

Cap De Formentor

On the northern tip of Mallorca is the Cap de Formentor, where the top end of the Serra de Tramuntana mountain range meets the Mediterranean. Cap de Formentor literally means ‘end of Formentor’ – the peninsula is northeast of the port of Pollença.

Some 13 km from Port de Pollensa, the scenery begins with pine woods and glimpses of crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, one of which fronts the island´s original luxury hotel, Hotel Formentor.

You can no longer drive to the Cap de Formentor you have to take a shuttle bus in order to visit the famous lighthouse and the wild rocky peninsula on Majorca’s north-east coast which has spectacular views, particularly from the lighthouse.

Palma Cathedral Seu Seo

The Cathedral La Seu is the most famous building and landmark of Palma, which was first built by King Jaume II in 1300. Over time, many expansions were made to the main façade, as well as renovations to the inner rooms, and it was not until the 19th century that the cathedral obtained its current appearance. La Seu is one of the largest and most important Gothic cathedrals

The Castell de Bellver (Bellver Castle) just outside of Palma is unique among Spanish castles in being entirely circular and is a well-preserved 14th-century royal fortress with fragrant pine woods, and an interesting museum, and superb views over Palma Bay.

Palma Cathedral  Seu Seo of Mallorca
Gibraltar Travel Guide

Gibraltar Travel Guide

Welcome to The Rock

Welcome to The Rock, British style at the tip of Spain, if you are looking Britishness then you will find it in Gibraltar, from the moment you arrive in Gibraltar international airport you in a British Overseas Territory, which holds British values from the past, red phone boxes, fish and chips and much more. You can now either take a taxi or take the bus to the market place (service number 5) Gibraltar is a monolithic peninsula, its limestone base thrives unique vegetation and many species of migrating birds, Gibraltar is only fourteen miles from Africa so the climate is very mild. If you go the Douglas Lookout on the top the upper rock you can take great photos of the rock and Africa in one direction and Spain in the other direction.

The town itself is on the western side of the rock with many of the buildings outside of the town wall being built on reclaimed land; Gibraltar’s heritage goes back to the Moors who controlled the Mediterranean and Spain until 1492.

Grand Casemates Square, Gibraltar

I have visited Gibraltar twice and I love the rock, a little piece of England on the Mediterranean, great location, nice people and wonderful restaurants, and the Ocean Village marina is full of all types of fish, no Dolphins, they are out to sea, but you can take a trip on the many boats offering Dolphin watching.

the old town is only a short walk away where you will find the busy Casemates Square, with its Restaurants and its English style Pubs and fish and chips. The Star Bar (Gibraltar’s oldest legal drinking establishment) dates back several hundred years is in Parliament Lane.

Casemates Square Gibraltar
main street gibraltar

Main Street Gibraltar

Main Street is Gibraltar’s main commercial and shopping district. It runs north-south through the old town which is pedestrianised and lined with buildings displaying a blend of Genoese, Portuguese, Andalusian, Moorish, and British Regency styles.

Shops along this pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare sell pretty much everything, including cosmetics, perfumery, jewellery, designer glasses, tobacco and spirits, high end linens, and electronics. Marks & Spencer, Holland and Barrett, Next, F&F, Pandora, Dorothy Perkins, and Boux Avenue are to name but a few of the big-name brands.

Irish Town name dates back to the early 19th century when Gibraltar was split into differing quarters and is one of the oldest streets in Gibraltar. It runs from Main Street, just south of Casemates Square to John Mackintosh Square, parallel to the heavily fortified Line Wall. Today it is a pedestrian precinct with bars, restaurants and coffee shops.

The Convent (Gibraltar)

The Convent has been the official residence of the Governor of Gibraltar since 1728. It was originally a convent of Franciscan friars, hence its name, and was built in 1531, and heavily rebuilt during the 18th and 19th centuries. The official Changing of the Guard takes place a few times a year on anniversaries and special occasions.

The Southport Gates are three city gates in the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar. They are located in the Charles V Wall, one of the 16th century fortifications of Gibraltar. The gates are clustered together, with the South Bastion to the west, and the Trafalgar Cemetery to the east

Trafalgar Cemetery is key landmark in Gibraltar’s military history, it commemorates the famous Anglo-French/Spanish Battle of Trafalgar fought off Cape Trafalgar in 1805. Although there are only two casualties of the Battle buried in the Cemetery, a ceremony to commemorate Lord Nelson’s victory is held every year.

In Red Sands road you will find the Gibraltar Cable Car is an aerial tramway in Gibraltar. The base station of the cable car is located near the southern end of Main Street, next to Alameda Gardens

Convent Guard House in the city of Gibraltar.
The Rock of Gibraltar

Alameda Wildlife Park

The Alameda Wildlife Park first came to existence in 1994. Local Customs authorities confiscated a collection of parrots, land tortoises and monkeys from illegal traders who were passing through Gibraltar. The animals were handed over to G.O.N.H.S., (Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society).

Nestled in the beautiful Alameda Botanic Gardens, the AWCP is home to a collection of both exotic and native species. The AWCP is the only Wildlife Park in Gibraltar.

Alameda Wildlife Park looks after exotic animals confiscated by Gibraltar customs, unwanted exotic pets and animals such as the Cotton-topped tamarin, on loan from international Zoos, to raise awareness of important endangered species through conservation education.

Gibraltar Lighthouse

The Europa Point Lighthouse stands proudly at the very tip of Gibraltar. Its great beam lights the way for mariners sailing through the often turbulent Straits of Gibraltar, where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean collide. Stand on the very tip of Europa Point and appreciate the incredible views and the iconic red and white striped lighthouse.

Views of North Africa can be seen across the Strait of Gibraltar including Ceuta and the Rif Mountains of Morocco; as well as the Bay of Gibraltar and the Spanish towns along its shores. It is accessed from the old town by Europa Road

Gibraltar Lighthouse at dawn
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