By Raya & Duane
5
1313 ratings
The podcast currently has 51 episodes available.
Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using credit card points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5
The Suite I stayed in (Founder's Suite)
In this episode of Travel Party of Five, hosts Raya and Duane dive into a review of the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel and share personal experiences and travel tips. Located in downtown Chicago, the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel is a beautifully restored property, originally built in 1893 as an exclusive athletic and social club. Now part of Hyatt's Unbound Collection, it offers unique features that make it a memorable choice for travelers.
Raya provides a detailed account of her stay, including her room upgrade to the spacious Founder’s Suite, which featured two fireplaces, a dining area, and views of Millennium Park. She also touches on the hotel’s blend of classic and modern amenities, from the Game Room, where guests can enjoy shuffleboard and pool, to the historic Milk Room, once a Prohibition-era speakeasy, now serving breakfast and coffee. The hotel’s Shake Shack in the lobby and the rooftop bar with city views add to its charm, making the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel a unique stay in the heart of the city.
The episode also includes practical advice for families managing work travel. Raya and Duane discuss the challenges of leaving family behind and share tips for keeping things running smoothly at home. They highlight the importance of meal planning, family support, and sticking to routines, which help make travel easier on both the traveling parent and the family at home.
While the Chicago Athletic Association offers plenty of character and charm, the hosts note that it may be best suited for adults rather than young families due to its historical decor and lack of child-friendly amenities like a pool. Overall, Raya and Duane agree that the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups looking to explore the city with a touch of history.
Whether you’re interested in the architecture of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel or seeking practical tips for balancing work travel and family, this episode offers insight and advice from experienced family travelers.
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Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using credit card points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5
If you’re planning family travel to Japan, this episode is a must-listen! Join hosts Raya and Duane from Travel Party of Five as they break down the details of booking a family trip to Japan for five, all using points and miles. From finding the best time of year to travel to selecting airlines and hotel accommodations, they share each step they took to make their upcoming Japan adventure affordable and memorable.
In this episode, Raya and Duane explain how they decided on traveling to Japan during fall break, avoiding Japan’s busy cherry blossom season and hot summers. Since their family can only travel during school breaks, they chose fall for its pleasant weather and more manageable crowds. They also touch on how they strategized the use of points for their entire family to secure affordable flights without sacrificing comfort. Listeners can learn from their research on airline award programs like American Airlines and Singapore Airlines, along with tips for avoiding high fees by selecting Japan Airlines for their main flights.
One of the challenges discussed in planning family travel to Japan was finding flights for five people on points. Raya shares how she worked through each airline’s award program and explains her top choices based on seat availability and costs. Family travel to Japan isn’t complete without talking about transportation and accommodations, so the hosts also cover how they’ll use points to stay at several Hyatt hotels and how they planned in advance to accumulate the points needed for their stay.
Travel Party of Five also talks about tips for positioning flights, which are often necessary when traveling internationally. They explain how to fly from their home city of Phoenix to San Francisco to catch their Japan-bound flight using Alaska Airlines points, sharing how they scored affordable seats for their whole family. They describe each airline’s booking quirks, sharing a few insider tips, like how American Airlines Japan Airlines award seats tend to show up a day later than expected on AA’s site, making it easier to snag deals if you check back at the right times.
In addition to flights, they outline their Japan accommodations booked on points, including the Grand Hyatt Tokyo, the Hyatt Centric Ginza, the Hyatt House Tokyo Shibuya, and the Hyatt Place Kyoto. Since they hold Hyatt Globalist status, they’re planning to enjoy some perks, including potential free breakfast and room upgrades, making family travel to Japan even more cost-effective.
As a family of five, Raya and Duane know the challenges that come with planning a big trip, especially when it’s as far as Japan. They’re excited to explore Tokyo, Kyoto, and local favorites like ramen shops, convenience stores, and perhaps even the base where Duane spent part of his childhood. They also look forward to sharing their experiences and more Japan travel tips after their trip, helping other families plan their own dream vacations.
Tune in to learn how to make a trip to Japan possible for your family with points and miles! You’ll walk away with practical tips on using points for flights and accommodations, as well as how to navigate travel logistics when you have a larger family. For more tips and to follow along on their family travel adventures, find them on Instagram at TravelParty5.
Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using credit card points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5
All aboard for a journey through Arizona's hidden gem, the Verde Canyon! In this episode, join hosts Raya and Duane as they take you on a journey aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad. As part of their "Visit Arizona" series, they explore this historic train route that travels through the stunning Verde Canyon, often called Arizona's other Grand Canyon. Listen in as they share their experiences, tips, and insights about this unique four-hour train ride, which departs from Clarkdale and travels to Perkinsville and back.
Raya and Duane discuss everything you need to know before hopping on the Verde Canyon Railroad, from the best time of year to ride to what to expect during the journey. They describe the comfortable train cars, complete with air conditioning, champagne, and charcuterie boxes, making it a fun and relaxing ride for travelers. You’ll learn why choosing a seat on the right side of the train offers better views of Arizona’s landscapes, and how each car has access to an open-air observation deck where passengers can enjoy unobstructed views.
As you ride along the Verde River, the train’s guide shares stories about the region’s history, including details about ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings, local mining towns, and the railroad’s origins. Duane even hints at some of the lesser-known themed rides the Verde Canyon Railroad offers, such as Ales on Rails and special stargazing journeys, making it a versatile experience for visitors.
Raya and Duane explain their own journey from Phoenix to Clarkdale, sharing how the trip through Cottonwood added a charming touch to their adventure. While they were hoping to catch some fall foliage, they learned that Arizona’s unseasonably warm weather kept the fall colors at bay. Still, the ride offered beautiful views of red rock formations and lush greenery along the river, a striking contrast to the desert surroundings.
If you’re planning to visit Sedona or Flagstaff, Raya and Duane recommend making the Verde Canyon Railroad part of your trip. It’s an easy day trip from these locations and a great way to see more of Arizona’s varied landscapes. They suggest pairing your train ride with a stay at the Pinion Point, a Hyatt Vacation Club in Sedona, which can be booked using points. After a morning ride on the train, you can head back to Sedona for a nice dinner and complete a perfect day exploring Northern Arizona.
In addition to sharing their personal experiences, Raya and Duane offer practical advice for making the most of your Verde Canyon Railroad adventure. They emphasize the importance of bringing a deck of cards or other activities for the ride, as cell service is unavailable during much of the journey. Their laid-back, honest review helps you decide if this train ride is right for your family, especially if you’re looking for a mix of history, relaxation, and scenic beauty.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this episode of "Travel Party of Five" provides all the information you need to plan your trip on the Verde Canyon Railroad. Follow Raya and Duane on Instagram @travelpartyoffive for more tips, answers to your questions, and updates on future episodes.
Tune in to discover why the Verde Canyon Railroad should be on your Arizona travel itinerary, and get inspired to plan your next family adventure.
Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using credit card points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5
In this episode of the Travel Party of Five podcast, hosts Raya and Duane share all the details of their recent weekend getaway to New Mexico. They take you through their stay at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya and their very first visit to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever thought about experiencing the excitement of hundreds of colorful hot air balloons filling the sky.
The Hyatt Regency Tamaya is located just outside of Albuquerque, and it became the perfect home base for their trip. This family-friendly resort offers beautiful mountain views, plenty of activities, and a relaxing atmosphere. From horseback riding to cozy fireplaces, this property has something for everyone. Raya and Duane used their points to book a stay here, and they share tips on how you can do the same, especially if you're aiming to attend the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. With features like multiple pools, bike trails, and even s’mores nights, the Hyatt Regency Tamaya makes it easy for families to enjoy their stay while exploring the area.
The main highlight of their trip was attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. This world-famous event runs for nine days each October, with sessions in the early morning and evening. They describe the unforgettable experience of waking up at 2:30 AM to catch the first bus to the event, and the thrill of watching the mass ascension where hundreds of balloons take off together. Even with the early wake-up call, they agreed it was worth it. They explain the options for getting to the festival, including the convenience of using a park-and-ride system to avoid traffic.
During the episode, Raya and Duane also share practical advice for attending the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, like dressing warmly, packing patience for crowds, and booking everything in advance. They recommend at least one morning session and a night session if you want to experience all the magic the event has to offer.
Tune in to this episode to hear more about the Hyatt Regency Tamaya, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, and tips on how to use points and miles to make the most of your family travels. Raya and Duane share all the highs and lows of their trip, from delicious New Mexican food and drone shows, to the chilly, early morning balloon launches. They hope this episode inspires you to plan your own adventure to New Mexico and discover the charm of the Hyatt Regency Tamaya and the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.
So, if you're planning a family trip or looking for your next destination to use points and miles, this episode will give you plenty of insights. Don’t miss their advice on how to make the most of a short weekend trip, tips on booking with points, and why the Hyatt Regency Tamaya is an ideal choice if you’re visiting the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta.
In this episode, we’re revisiting one of the most valuable tools for frequent family travelers—the Southwest Companion Pass. If you've been wondering how to earn the Southwest Companion Pass, or you're looking to maximize your travel savings, this episode is for you.
We share our personal experiences as a family of five, highlighting how earning the Southwest Companion Pass has made a huge impact on our travel plans. We explain how it allows us to fly with one companion for free (except for taxes and fees) on every Southwest flight. Since earning their Companion Passes in early 2023, they’ve traveled to destinations like Maui, Costa Rica, and Washington, D.C., only paying for a fraction of their family’s flights.
If you’re new to this game-changer, we break down exactly how to earn the Southwest Companion Pass, covering the most important steps like when to apply for Southwest credit cards and how to meet the minimum spending requirements. Timing is critical, and Raya and Duane explain how to maximize your travel benefits by planning strategically, especially if you're a larger family like theirs.
Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:
One of the most crucial takeaways from this episode is understanding the best time to apply and spend on your Southwest credit cards. Raya stresses that if you want to earn the Companion Pass for the maximum amount of time, it’s important to ensure that your points hit your account after January 1st, so you can enjoy the pass for two full years.
Throughout the episode, they also share their personal strategies and a mistake Raya made when they first earned their passes—one she wants you to avoid. Whether you’re aiming for more frequent family vacations or planning weekend getaways, this episode is packed with tips on how to earn the Southwest Companion Pass, how to use it, and why it’s a game-changer for larger families.
If you're thinking about applying for Southwest credit cards, now is the time to start, so you can begin earning your Companion Pass for next year. As always, feel free to message us on Instagram at @TravelPartyof5 if you have any questions about how to earn the Southwest Companion Pass. We’re here to help you make your family travel more affordable!
Chase Sapphired Preferred - ELEVATED OFFER (OCT 2025)
World of Hyatt Personal Card - ELEVATED OFFER (OCT 2025)
All other best cards for October 2025
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Want amazing family photos? Use our Flytographer Referral Link and Get $50 OFF YOUR FIRST SHOOT! (Valid 10/1-10/31/2024. After that, it's $25 off your first shoot).
Capt Andy's - the Na Pali Coast Boat Tour we did
Lydgate Park
Poipu Beach - Sea Turtles
In this episode of the Travel Party of Five podcast, hosts Raya and Duane dive into the best family-friendly things to do in Kauai. Traveling with kids aged four to ten can be a challenge, but the island of Kauai offers plenty of activities that are both fun and accessible for families. Whether you're looking for scenic spots, unique local experiences, or simple ways to keep your kids entertained, Kauai has something for everyone.
Poipu Beach is a must-see spot, especially in the evening, when you can witness sea turtles coming ashore. As one of the best things to do in Kauai with kids, Poipu Beach provides the opportunity to see nature up close, with volunteers ensuring the turtles are protected. If you're visiting Kauai with your family, you won't want to miss this.
From there, they explore Waimea Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." This breathtaking spot offers panoramic views of the island and is another one of the incredible things to do in Kauai. It's a great destination for families, and the kids enjoyed the views despite the winding roads. The key is to go early, as clouds tend to roll in by mid-morning. The episode gives a breakdown of what to expect, how much it costs, and why it’s one of the top things to do in Kauai.
Raya and Duane also highlight Hanalei Bay, which they recommend as a perfect place for families to relax. With its calm waters, Hanalei Bay is one of the best places for young kids to swim and play.
For those seeking adventure, they discuss their boat tour of the Na Pali Coast, a six-hour trip with Captain Andy’s. This tour, while pricey, delivered unforgettable views of the coast and a chance to see dolphins swimming alongside the boat. The Na Pali Coast is one of Kauai's most iconic landmarks and can only be seen by air or sea. They break down what to expect on the tour, why it's worth the cost, and how to prepare your family for a day on the water. It's one of the more adventurous things to do in Kauai, and Duane lists it as one of his favorite experiences from the trip.
The episode also explores more relaxed family activities, like visiting Lydgate Park, a huge playground near Wailua, and eating at local favorite restaurants. They share their recommendations for kid-friendly meals and highlight Japanese Grandma’s Café as their top restaurant pick from the trip.
Whether you're visiting Kauai for the first time or returning with your family, this episode is packed with tips, insights, and firsthand experiences of family-friendly things to do in Kauai. From beaches and scenic spots to local eats and boat tours, you'll leave with a clear idea of how to make the most of your family trip to this stunning island.
So, if you’re planning a trip and need inspiration for things to do in Kauai with your family, this episode is for you!
Flytographer Referral Link - Get $50 OFF YOUR FIRST SHOOT! (Valid 10/1-10/31/2024. After that, it's $25 off your first shoot).
Chase Sapphired Preferred - ELEVATED OFFER (OCT 2025)
World of Hyatt Personal Card - ELEVATED OFFER (OCT 2025)
All other best cards for October 2025
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5
Tune in to learn:
In this episode of Travel Party of Five, we’re diving into the first part of our family’s recent trip to Kauai, including a detailed review of our stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai. As always, we’re focused on how we used points and miles to make this dream vacation happen—without breaking the bank. We’ll walk you through the entire experience, from flights to food to activities, while sharing tips on how to maximize your points and miles to stay at luxury properties like the Grand Hyatt Kauai.
We started the trip by using our points and miles to book flights with Southwest, taking full advantage of our Companion Pass to fly our family of five for the price of three tickets. For our stay, we used Hyatt points to book the Grand Hyatt Kauai, a Category 7 property, saving us over $8,000 in cash costs. We’ll explain how we secured this luxury stay with just 30,000 points per night and offer tips on making the most of the club access at the hotel, which helped us save on meals during the trip.
Our review of the Grand Hyatt Kauai covers everything from the beautiful ocean views and spacious property to the pool areas, which include a lazy river, water slide, and even a lagoon. You’ll hear about how the property’s location near Poipu Beach provided access to wildlife like Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles. Plus, we’ll share our experiences with on-property dining options, including our memorable meal at Tidepools, and what to expect from the club lounge.
We’ll also touch on a few mishaps, including a stomach bug that hit one of our kids, which led to some unexpected challenges. Despite this, the Grand Hyatt Kauai provided plenty of space and amenities to make our stay comfortable, even during a family emergency.
So if you’re looking for practical tips on how to use points and miles to book family vacations at luxury properties like the Grand Hyatt Kauai, or you just want to hear about what it’s really like to travel with kids, this episode is for you. Stay tuned for part two, where we’ll cover all the fun activities we did in Kauai, and share more about how points and miles made this dream vacation possible.
Whether you're a seasoned points and miles pro or just getting started, we hope this episode helps you learn new ways to travel more for less!
Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using credit card points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5
Link: The Travel Freely app we use to keep track of all our cards (IT'S COMPLETELY FREE!)
Best Cards - September 2024 (incl the Hilton and IHG cards we reference in this episode!)
In this episode, we dive deep into how we earned over 1 million points in just nine months without spending anywhere near 1 million dollars. If you’ve ever wondered how to earn points for travel while sticking to your regular budget, this episode is for you.
We’ll walk you through the exact cards we opened to earn over 1 million points. We believe that knowing how to earn points for travel doesn’t need to be complicated, and with our straightforward advice, you’ll be on your way to your next vacation in no time.
One of the key takeaways is that earning 1 million points is achievable, even without massive spending. We emphasize the importance of opening the right cards at the right time and how to align your points strategy with your travel goals. If you’ve been thinking about a trip to Hawaii, for example, we’ll show you how to earn points for travel that can make those dreams a reality. We discuss how having a specific trip in mind helps you focus your efforts on earning the points you need for flights, hotels, and more.
This episode also covers how we keep track of the cards we open, and how using tools like Travel Freely makes the process easier. It’s not just about earning 1 million points — it’s about doing it in a way that fits into your everyday life.
We’ll also share tips for planning future trips. For example, we’ve got our eyes on Japan and Yellowstone, and we’re already thinking ahead to earning points for 2026. Planning early and focusing on cards that offer free nights and perks can make a huge difference, especially for family travel. By sharing our experiences, we hope to show you how to earn points for travel in a way that works for you, too.
If you're new to earning points and miles, this episode is packed with information on how to start, and if you're already on the journey, you’ll pick up some new strategies for growing your points stash. With a calm, straightforward approach, we break down everything you need to know without any overwhelming jargon.
Listen in to discover how we earned over 1 million points and how you can apply these tips to your own travel plans. Whether you’re a family of five or just starting your points journey, there’s something here for everyone.
Find us on Instagram at @TravelPartyofFive for more tips, and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoy the podcast. Thanks for listening!
Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using credit card points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family.
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5
Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Cards we love for earning Hyatt points, and if you've already got one of the Chase Sapphire cards, you'll want to apply for these business cards, linked here.
In this episode, we're diving into some of the best places to visit in Arizona. Whether you're planning a road trip or just a weekend getaway, we’ve got you covered with four amazing destinations, all within a five-hour drive from Phoenix. From the iconic Grand Canyon to the hidden gems in Flagstaff and Sedona, we’ll show you how to explore the stunning scenery and enjoy family-friendly activities in these unforgettable locations.
First, we take you to the Grand Canyon, a true bucket-list destination and one of the most famous places to visit in Arizona. With breathtaking views and plenty of spots to explore, it's perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay. We'll share tips on where to stay, including options you can book with points, and some of the best experiences for families visiting this natural wonder.
Next, we head to Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell. Discover how you can paddleboard through serene waters or take a guided tour through the stunning canyon formations. Antelope Canyon is one of the most unique places to visit in Arizona, and we’ll give you all the details on how to make the most of your time there, including must-see spots like Horseshoe Bend.
Our third stop is Flagstaff, an ideal destination for families who want to escape the desert heat. With cooler temperatures, outdoor activities, and plenty of family-friendly attractions, Flagstaff is one of the best places to visit in Arizona during summer or winter. From skiing in the winter months to hiking in the summer, it’s a year-round destination worth checking out.
Finally, we wrap up our tour in Sedona, known for its famous red rocks and vibrant energy. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Arizona for a reason! We’ll talk about exploring the area’s unique hiking trails, experiencing the Pink Jeep Tours, and soaking in the beauty of this high-desert oasis. Sedona is perfect for day trips or a longer stay, especially if you’re looking to relax and connect with nature.
Along the way, we’ll share tips on how to book your stays using points and miles, making family travel more affordable than ever. Whether you're planning to visit during the warm summer months or looking for cooler escapes in the high desert, this episode will guide you through some of the most incredible places to visit in Arizona.
If you’re ready to explore Arizona beyond Phoenix, tune in to this episode to discover the best spots to visit, how to make the most of your time, and where to stay using points to maximize your travel budget. Don’t miss our pro tips on lodging, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities in Arizona’s most beautiful locations. PLUS we share an ideal 7-10 day itinerary at the end of the episode!
Thanks for finding our podcast! We are a family of 5 who does most of our travel using points and miles and we share how we leverage credit card welcome offers to earn a ton of points/miles so we can afford travel as a larger family
Follow us on Instagram @TravelPartyof5
Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Cards - we use these points to book all our Hyatt hotels. And if you've already got one of the Chase Sapphire cards, you'll want to apply for these business cards, linked here.
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This episode is the first episode in a series all around visiting the great state of Arizona!!! First up - we explore everything you need to know when you visit Arizona, with a focus on where to stay in Scottsdale and where to stay in Phoenix and Tempe. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, we’ll help you find the perfect place to stay while sharing tips on how to make the most of your trip using points and miles.
We start by discussing why Arizona is a top travel destination, especially for those interested in experiencing the beauty of the desert landscape. From the best time of year to visit Arizona to how to handle the summer heat and cooler winter months, we break down the key points to consider before booking your trip. Whether you want to explore the outdoors or just relax by the pool, this episode will give you all the essential details for planning your visit to Arizona.
Next, we dive into where to stay in Scottsdale, covering a range of hotels and resorts that cater to different travel styles. If you’re using points, we highlight some excellent options for Hyatt, Marriott, Hilton, and IHG members. For those wondering where to stay in Scottsdale, we recommend the Hyatt House and Hyatt Place in Old Town for convenient access to shopping, dining, and nightlife. For a more luxurious experience, we suggest the Andaz Scottsdale and the Royal Palms, which offer unique, upscale settings perfect for couples or special occasions. If you're traveling with family, we also explore the soon-to-be Grand Hyatt Scottsdale, a fantastic choice for family-friendly accommodations.
For Marriott points users, we discuss where to stay in Scottsdale, such as the JW Marriott Camelback Inn Resort & Spa and the Phoenician. Both properties offer luxury and comfort with beautiful views and top-notch service, making them ideal for romantic getaways or family vacations. If you're looking for where to stay in Scottsdale using IHG or Hilton points, we mention options like the Holiday Inn Express and the Hilton Garden Inn, both centrally located in Old Town Scottsdale. For a more extravagant stay, the Fairmont Princess is a top pick, especially during the holiday season when the property transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for families.
Beyond Scottsdale, we also guide you through where to stay in Phoenix if your trip includes events, concerts, or sports games. We suggest properties like the Hyatt Regency Downtown Phoenix and the Kimpton Palomar, both of which are great choices if you're looking for where to stay in Phoenix and want to be close to Chase Field or Talking Stick Resort Arena. These hotels offer convenience for those wanting to stay near the heart of the action while enjoying top-tier amenities.
So, if you're planning to visit Arizona, tune in to this episode for the full rundown on where to stay in Scottsdale, where to stay in Phoenix, and how to make your trip unforgettable. Whether you're traveling for relaxation, adventure, or a special event, we’ve got you covered with all the tips and tricks you need to make your Arizona trip a success!
The podcast currently has 51 episodes available.
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