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Poland: Warsaw – “The Phoenix City”

about

About Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is a city of remarkable contrasts — a place where history and modernity stand side by side in an ever-evolving landscape. Once almost completely destroyed during the Second World War, it has risen from the ashes with astonishing resilience. The meticulously reconstructed Old Town, with its cobbled streets, pastel-coloured townhouses, and grand Market Square, is a living symbol of that rebirth. Strolling through this area feels like stepping back into another century, especially when you pause at St. John’s Archcathedral or the Barbican, both lovingly restored to their former glory. Yet, just beyond these historic streets, the skyline shifts dramatically — sleek glass towers and modern architecture reflect a thriving European capital, full of ambition and energy. Warsaw today is not merely a survivor; it’s a city that has reinvented itself with dignity and purpose.

Culture thrives in every corner of Warsaw, making it one of the most dynamic cities in Central Europe. The city boasts an exceptional range of museums and galleries that tell the story of Poland’s rich and turbulent past. The Warsaw Uprising Museum stands as one of the most moving and comprehensive war museums in Europe, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for the city’s freedom. Nearby, the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews offers a deeply powerful journey through a thousand years of Jewish life in Poland, blending immersive storytelling with striking architecture. Music, too, is deeply woven into Warsaw’s identity — after all, this is the birthplace of the great composer Frédéric Chopin. His legacy can be felt everywhere, from elegant concerts in Łazienki Park to statues and museums dedicated to his life and work. The city’s cultural pulse is steady and strong, offering everything from classical performances to avant-garde art and vibrant street festivals.

Despite its weight of history, Warsaw is surprisingly youthful and alive. Its parks and green spaces, such as the sprawling Łazienki Park and the beautifully landscaped Saxon Garden, offer quiet retreats from urban life. The Vistula River, which flows through the heart of the city, has become a lively hub of activity, lined with walking paths, cafes, and open-air bars that buzz with locals on summer evenings. Across the river in the Praga district, old factories have been transformed into creative spaces, art studios, and independent theatres, giving the area a bohemian charm. Warsaw’s food scene is equally exciting, blending hearty Polish tradition with modern innovation — from pierogi and żurek soup to fine dining and international cuisine. It’s a city that never stands still, always balancing reflection with reinvention, and for visitors, it offers an experience that is both profoundly historical and unmistakably contemporary.

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castle

Things to do

1️⃣ 🏰 Explore the Royal Castle and Castle Square

The Royal Castle sits proudly at the entrance to the Old Town, a landmark that symbolises Warsaw’s rebirth after being almost completely destroyed during the Second World War. Once home to Polish monarchs, the castle has been painstakingly restored to its former grandeur, with its red façade and tall clock tower looking out over Castle Square. Inside, the ornate chambers, lavishly decorated with tapestries, paintings, and gilded furniture, tell the story of Poland’s royal past. The Throne Room and the Great Assembly Hall are particularly striking, reflecting the refined tastes of the Polish nobility.

Outside, Castle Square (Plac Zamkowy) is one of the most atmospheric spots in the city. The Sigismund Column, honouring King Sigismund III Vasa, stands tall at its centre. Around it, colourful buildings, street performers, and bustling cafés create a lively yet historic atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to pause and take in the essence of Warsaw’s Old Town—a blend of beauty, tragedy, and rebirth.

StareMiasto

 

2️⃣ 🏙️ Stroll Through the Old Town (Stare Miasto)

Warsaw’s Old Town is the heart and soul of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that rose from ruins after 1945. Every cobbled street and pastel-coloured façade has been reconstructed with astonishing care, using old photographs and paintings as guides. The Market Square, with its charming houses and decorative fountains, feels timeless. Artists set up easels, children chase pigeons, and locals sip coffee at pavement cafés under the watchful gaze of the Warsaw Mermaid statue—an enduring symbol of the city.

Wandering through the narrow lanes reveals hidden courtyards, small museums, and intimate restaurants serving hearty Polish dishes. The sense of history is everywhere, but it’s balanced by warmth and life. Whether you visit in summer when the streets hum with outdoor music, or in winter when lights glow against the snow, the Old Town captures Warsaw’s spirit perfectly.

MariaCurie

3️⃣ 🧬 Visit the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Museum

Tucked away on Freta Street in the New Town, the Maria Skłodowska-Curie Museum celebrates one of Warsaw’s most extraordinary daughters. Born here in 1867, Curie went on to become the first woman to win a Nobel Prize—and the only person to win in two different sciences. The museum occupies the house where she was born and tells her story through personal letters, photographs, and laboratory instruments. It offers a quiet, thoughtful experience, shedding light on both her scientific achievements and her human side.

The exhibits trace her journey from a determined student in Warsaw—at a time when women were barred from higher education—to her groundbreaking research in Paris. There are also displays about her husband, Pierre Curie, and their shared legacy in physics and chemistry. The museum is small but deeply moving, a reminder of the power of intellect and perseverance in the face of obstacles.

chopin

4️⃣ 🎶 Experience the Chopin Museum

Warsaw’s most famous composer, Frédéric Chopin, is celebrated in a museum as elegant as his music. Housed in the historic Ostrogski Palace, the Chopin Museum combines traditional displays with multimedia technology to create a rich, sensory experience. Visitors can listen to recordings of his compositions while exploring manuscripts, letters, and personal items that shed light on his life and character.

Each room focuses on a different theme—from Chopin’s youth in Poland to his later years in Paris. The museum also reflects the social world of the 19th century, showing how deeply music was woven into Polish identity. It’s worth lingering here, taking time to listen, reflect, and let the melodies carry you through Warsaw’s romantic side.

uprising

5️⃣ 🕯️ Visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum

Few places capture the courage and tragedy of Warsaw like the Uprising Museum. Dedicated to the 1944 uprising against Nazi occupation, it’s one of Poland’s most moving memorials. The museum uses sound, film, and personal accounts to tell the story of the resistance fighters who fought for their city’s freedom. Visitors can walk through replicas of wartime streets, see original weapons and uniforms, and hear the sounds of the uprising echoing through the exhibits.

The displays are intense and deeply emotional, but they also reveal the extraordinary spirit of the people of Warsaw. A powerful highlight is the room dedicated to children who served as couriers and scouts during the uprising. The museum’s layout and storytelling make history come alive, and by the time you leave, you’ll understand why Warsaw is often called the “Phoenix City.”

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6️⃣ 🌳 Relax in Łazienki Park

Łazienki Park, Warsaw’s largest and most beautiful park, is a vast landscape of lakes, pavilions, and tree-lined paths. At its heart stands the elegant Palace on the Isle, reflected perfectly in the still water that surrounds it. Once the summer residence of King Stanisław August Poniatowski, the palace is a masterpiece of neoclassical design, filled with art and fine furniture.

The park itself is a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. Peacocks wander freely, squirrels dart between benches, and in summer, open-air Chopin concerts draw crowds to the monument dedicated to the composer. Whether you stroll, picnic, or simply sit under the trees, Łazienki Park offers a glimpse of Warsaw’s gentler, more reflective side.

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7️⃣ 🏛️ Discover the POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews

One of Europe’s most acclaimed museums, POLIN tells the thousand-year story of Jewish life in Poland. Located on the site of the former Warsaw Ghetto, the museum’s striking modern architecture contrasts with the weight of the history it holds. Inside, interactive galleries explore Jewish culture, tradition, and survival—from medieval times through the horrors of the Holocaust to the rebirth of Jewish life in modern Poland.

The exhibits are both educational and emotional, filled with personal stories, photographs, and multimedia presentations. It’s not just a museum of loss, but also one of resilience and cultural richness. Visitors often leave with a deeper understanding of how intertwined Jewish and Polish histories truly are.

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8️⃣ 🏙️ Walk Along the Vistula Boulevards

The Vistula River flows through the heart of Warsaw, and its boulevards have become one of the city’s most vibrant recreational areas. Stretching for kilometres along the riverbanks, the walkways are lined with cycle paths, cafés, outdoor bars, and places to sit and watch the water flow by. On summer evenings, locals gather here to relax, enjoy street food, or listen to live music.

Across the river, the Praga district offers a contrasting view—grittier and more bohemian, with murals, art spaces, and a creative buzz that feels distinctly local. The boulevards are especially lovely at sunset when the skyline of Warsaw glows in gold and pink, and the city feels alive yet serene.

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9️⃣ 🖼️ Visit the National Museum in Warsaw

The National Museum is one of Poland’s most important cultural institutions, home to a vast collection that spans centuries. From medieval altarpieces and Renaissance portraits to modern Polish art, it offers a sweeping view of the nation’s artistic heritage. Highlights include works by Jan Matejko and Jacek Malczewski, as well as an impressive gallery of ancient artefacts.

What makes the museum special is its sense of continuity—artworks that survived wars, occupations, and upheavals, now displayed in peaceful surroundings. The building itself, dating from the 1930s, combines classical and modernist design, giving space for both grandeur and quiet reflection. It’s a must for anyone who wants to understand Poland through its art and imagination.

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🔟 🏙️ Climb the Palace of Culture and Science

Love it or loathe it, the Palace of Culture and Science dominates the Warsaw skyline. A gift from the Soviet Union in the 1950s, this towering structure is both controversial and iconic. Its observation deck on the 30th floor offers the best panoramic view of the city—especially striking at sunset when the lights begin to twinkle below.

Inside, the building houses theatres, museums, cinemas, and even a swimming pool, reflecting its original purpose as a “palace for the people.” While its origins are political, today it stands as a symbol of Warsaw’s ability to adapt and redefine itself. Seeing the city from its summit gives a real sense of the vastness and vitality of modern Warsaw.

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Getting around Warsaw

🚇 Public Transport in Warsaw

Getting around Warsaw is remarkably easy thanks to its well-organised and affordable public transport network. The system includes buses, trams, the metro, and local trains — all operated under the same ticketing system, which means one ticket works across all modes. The Warsaw Metro currently has two lines: M1 running north to south and M2 running east to west, linking key areas such as Śródmieście (the city centre), Praga, and the business district. Trams are a great way to see the city while travelling, with many routes passing through scenic streets and major attractions like the Old Town, Łazienki Park, and the Palace of Culture and Science. Buses cover the rest of the city and operate frequently, even at night. Tickets can be bought from machines at stops or inside trams and buses, and you simply validate your ticket once you start your journey.


🚶 Walking and Cycling

Warsaw is a city that rewards those who explore on foot. The central districts are compact, with wide pavements, pedestrianised areas, and clearly marked crossings. The Old Town, with its cobbled lanes and colourful facades, is best explored by walking slowly and soaking in the atmosphere. Beyond the historic core, the city’s many green spaces — such as Łazienki Park and the Vistula River boulevards — are perfect for leisurely strolls. For those who prefer cycling, Warsaw has invested heavily in bike-friendly infrastructure, including over 700 kilometres of cycle paths. The Veturilo city bike scheme allows visitors to rent bikes easily from numerous stations around the city, making it an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to get around.


🚖 Taxis, Rideshares, and Car Hire

Taxis are widely available and relatively inexpensive by European standards, but it’s always best to choose licensed ones, identifiable by their official markings and city crest on the doors. Alternatively, popular ridesharing apps like Bolt, Uber, and Free Now operate throughout Warsaw and are often even cheaper and more convenient than taxis. Car hire is available at airports and across the city, though driving in central Warsaw can be challenging due to traffic and parking restrictions. Visitors staying within the city centre rarely need a car, as public transport and walking cover nearly all needs efficiently.


🚄 Trains and Day Trips

Warsaw’s main railway hub, Warszawa Centralna, connects the capital with other major Polish cities such as Kraków, Gdańsk, Łódź, and Wrocław. The station is modern, centrally located, and well signposted in both Polish and English. For shorter journeys, local trains operated by SKM (Fast Urban Railway) and Koleje Mazowieckie link Warsaw with its suburbs and nearby towns. This makes it easy to plan day trips to destinations like Żelazowa Wola (the birthplace of Chopin) or Kampinos National Park. The trains are punctual, clean, and efficient — an excellent option for exploring beyond the city without needing to drive.


✈️ Getting To and From the Airport

Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW), located just 10 kilometres from the city centre, is easily reached by public transport. The SKM trains (S2 and S3) connect the airport directly with central Warsaw in around 20 minutes, while several bus routes also operate frequently. Taxis and rideshares are available outside the terminal, but the train remains the fastest and most cost-effective choice. A second airport, Warsaw Modlin Airport (WMI), serves many budget airlines and is around 40 kilometres away; it’s accessible via shuttle buses and dedicated train connections.


🗺️ Summary

Mode of TransportConvenienceCostNotes
Metro🚇 Excellent💰 AffordableFastest across city centre
Tram🚋 Very Good💰 AffordableScenic and extensive routes
Bus🚌 Very Good💰 AffordableNight routes available
Walking🚶‍♀️ Excellent🆓 FreeBest in city centre
Cycling🚴‍♂️ Excellent💰 LowUse Veturilo bike hire
Taxi / Rideshare🚖 Convenient💰💰 ModerateUse apps for best fares
Train🚄 Excellent💰 AffordableGreat for day trips
Airport Transfer✈️ Easy💰 AffordableSKM train to city in 20 mins

Warsaw is a city designed for movement — clean, connected, and friendly to both commuters and explorers. Whether you’re gliding through on the metro, cycling by the Vistula, or wandering through the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, getting around the Polish capital is a smooth and enjoyable experience.

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Eating out for vegans in Warsaw

🥗 Vegan Food in Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw is fast becoming a great place for vegan food lovers, with many cafés and restaurants serving creative, plant-based dishes. Here are some top spots to check out:


🌿 Vege Miasto – City Centre

A well-loved vegan restaurant in the heart of Warsaw, known for its tasty burgers, wraps, and Polish-inspired vegan meals. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a favourite for both locals and visitors.

📍 Address: Aleje Solidarności 60A, Warsaw
🌐 Website: vegemiasto.pl


🍜 Krowarzywa – Multiple Locations

One of Warsaw’s most popular vegan burger chains, serving delicious burgers made from chickpeas, tofu, or seitan. Great for a quick, affordable meal.

📍 Locations: Świętokrzyska, Marszałkowska, and more
🌐 Website: krowarzywa.pl


🛒 Wegeguru – Vegan Bistro & Shop

A fully vegan café and store offering a mix of international dishes, smoothies, and desserts. You can also buy plant-based groceries and eco-friendly products.

📍 Address: Nowolipki 15, Warsaw
🌐 Website: wegeguru.pl


🍽️ Youmiko Vegan Sushi – City Centre

A stylish Japanese restaurant serving beautifully presented vegan sushi made from seasonal ingredients. Ideal for a light and elegant meal.

📍 Address: Hoża 62, Warsaw
🌐 Website: youmikosushi.com


🧁 Leonardo Verde – Śródmieście

A cosy spot offering vegan versions of Italian classics like pizza, pasta, and tiramisu. Perfect for anyone craving comfort food with a plant-based twist.

📍 Address: Poznańska 13, Warsaw
🌐 Website: leonardoverde.pl


🥙 Tel Aviv Urban Food – Multiple Locations

A trendy Middle Eastern restaurant with a wide vegan menu including hummus, falafel, and colourful mezze platters. Great for sharing and social dining.

📍 Locations: Poznańska, Jana Pawła II, and more
🌐 Website: telaviv.pl


🌱 Mango Vegan Street Food – Various Branches

A lively vegan chain serving fresh salads, wraps, and street food inspired by global flavours. Perfect for a quick, healthy bite on the go.

📍 Locations: Bracka, Jana Pawła II, and others
🌐 Website: mangovegan.pl

besttime

The best time to visit Warsaw

🕰️ Best Time to Visit Warsaw

Warsaw, Poland’s vibrant capital, offers something special in every season, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience.

Generally, spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the most pleasant times to visit. During these months, the weather is mild, the city parks are full of colour, and outdoor cafés are buzzing without the summer crowds.

🌸 Spring (April – June)

Spring transforms Warsaw into a city of blossom and fresh energy. Temperatures range between 10°C and 22°C, perfect for walking through Łazienki Park or exploring the Old Town. Outdoor festivals and markets start to appear, giving visitors a taste of local culture.

☀️ Summer (July – August)

Summer is the peak tourist season. Expect warm weather, lively streets, and plenty of open-air concerts and festivals. Temperatures can rise above 28°C, so it’s ideal for enjoying riverside cafés along the Vistula. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time for hotels and attractions.

🍁 Autumn (September – October)

Autumn brings mild weather and fewer tourists. The golden leaves in the city’s parks make it one of the most photogenic times to visit. Temperatures range between 8°C and 18°C, offering a calm atmosphere and affordable travel options.

❄️ Winter (November – March)

Warsaw in winter is cold but charming, especially during Christmas. The city sparkles with festive lights and markets. Temperatures often fall below 0°C, but if you enjoy winter scenery, skating rinks, and hearty Polish food, it’s a magical time to visit.


📅 Summary: Best Time to Visit Warsaw

SeasonMonthsTemperature RangeHighlightsRecommended For
🌸 SpringApril – June10°C – 22°CBlossoms, outdoor cafés, mild weatherSightseeing, walking tours
☀️ SummerJuly – August18°C – 30°CFestivals, nightlife, long daysEvents, social atmosphere
🍁 AutumnSeptember – October8°C – 18°CColourful parks, fewer crowdsPhotography, relaxed travel
❄️ WinterNovember – March-5°C – 5°CChristmas markets, cosy cafésWinter charm, budget travel

Overall Best Time to Visit: April to June or September to October — for the perfect mix of good weather, local culture, and fewer crowds.

 

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Where to stay in Warsaw

🏙️ Best Areas to Stay in Warsaw, Poland

Warsaw, the vibrant capital of Poland, offers a mix of history, culture, and modern comforts. Whether you’re looking for charming old streets, lively nightlife, or peaceful green spaces, the city has something for every traveller. Here are the best areas to stay in Warsaw for tourists.


🏰 Old Town (Stare Miasto)

If it’s your first time in Warsaw, the Old Town is perfect. Rebuilt after World War II, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features colourful buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively squares. You’ll be close to top attractions like the Royal Castle and Market Square.

Best for: Sightseeing, history, and atmosphere
🚇 Nearest Metro: Ratusz Arsenał
🍽️ Highlights: Traditional Polish restaurants, street performers, and charming cafés


🌆 Śródmieście (City Centre)

Śródmieście is the heart of modern Warsaw, combining shopping, business, and culture. You’ll find top hotels, trendy restaurants, and landmarks like the Palace of Culture and Science. It’s also well connected by public transport, making it easy to explore the city.

Best for: First-time visitors, shopping, and convenience
🚇 Nearest Metro: Centrum
🛍️ Highlights: Złote Tarasy shopping centre, Nowy Świat Street, and cultural venues


🎭 Powiśle

Once an industrial district, Powiśle is now one of Warsaw’s trendiest neighbourhoods. It’s packed with riverside bars, modern eateries, and cultural spaces. You can relax along the Vistula River or visit the Copernicus Science Centre nearby.

Best for: Young travellers, nightlife, and local vibes
🚇 Nearest Metro: Centrum Nauki Kopernik
🌉 Highlights: Vistula Boulevards, Elektrownia Powiśle complex


🌳 Mokotów

Mokotów offers a peaceful escape from the busy centre while still being well connected by tram and metro. It’s a green and elegant district popular with locals, featuring parks, cafés, and stylish accommodation.

Best for: Families and long-term stays
🚇 Nearest Metro: Pole Mokotowskie
🌺 Highlights: Łazienki Park, quiet streets, and outdoor cafés


🎨 Praga-Północ

Located across the Vistula River, Praga-Północ is Warsaw’s artistic and bohemian side. It’s home to creative spaces, independent galleries, and vintage markets. While some areas are still developing, it offers a unique, authentic feel of the city.

Best for: Art lovers and culture seekers
🚇 Nearest Metro: Dworzec Wileński
🎭 Highlights: Neon Museum, Koneser Centre, street art


🏨 Summary Table

AreaBest ForAtmosphereNearest Metro
🏰 Old TownHistory & sightseeingCharming & historicRatusz Arsenał
🌆 ŚródmieścieConvenience & shoppingCentral & livelyCentrum
🎭 PowiśleNightlife & cultureTrendy & creativeCentrum Nauki Kopernik
🌳 MokotówFamilies & natureCalm & greenPole Mokotowskie
🎨 Praga-PółnocArt & authenticityBohemian & edgyDworzec Wileński

1.  Mid Range: High Life Aparts

High Life Aparts in Warsaw offers a stylish and comfortable stay ideal for both short visits and longer stays in the city. Conveniently located close to the heart of Warsaw, these modern serviced apartments combine the comfort of home with the convenience of hotel-style amenities. Each apartment is beautifully designed with contemporary décor, featuring bright and spacious interiors, comfortable beds, and fully equipped kitchens—perfect for guests who prefer the flexibility of self-catering. The accommodation also includes free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms, ensuring a relaxed and hassle-free stay. Many apartments offer city views, giving guests a glimpse of Warsaw’s skyline right from their window. The location is particularly attractive, with easy access to public transport, major attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas such as Złote Tarasy. Whether visiting for business or leisure, High Life Aparts provides a welcoming base to explore the Polish capital, offering excellent value and a sense of independence that traditional hotels can’t always match.

2. Luxury – Hotel Verte

Hotel Verte, part of the prestigious Autograph Collection by Marriott, is a luxurious boutique hotel located in the very heart of Warsaw’s historic Old Town. Set within two beautifully restored Baroque palaces, the hotel seamlessly combines centuries-old architecture with elegant, modern design. Each room and suite has been thoughtfully decorated with refined furnishings, warm tones, and subtle artistic touches that reflect the city’s royal heritage. Guests can enjoy exceptional amenities, including a stylish restaurant serving contemporary Polish cuisine, a chic bar offering craft cocktails, and a fitness centre for those wishing to stay active during their stay. The atmosphere throughout is one of understated sophistication, perfect for travellers who appreciate both history and comfort. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Warsaw’s top attractions — the Royal Castle, Castle Square, and Krakowskie Przedmieście are just a short stroll away. With attentive service, a peaceful courtyard, and a strong sense of place, Hotel Verte offers an unforgettable experience that captures the charm and elegance of Warsaw at its finest.

3. Budget – ibis Warszawa Centrum

The ibis Warszawa Centrum is a modern and comfortable 3-star hotel located close to Warsaw’s historic city centre, making it a convenient choice for both leisure and business travellers. Situated near the lively Wola district, it offers easy access to public transport, with tram and bus stops just outside and the nearest metro station only a short walk away. The hotel features bright, well-designed rooms equipped with comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs, ensuring a pleasant stay. Guests can start their day with a generous buffet breakfast that includes both hot and cold options, while the on-site restaurant, ibis Kitchen, serves a range of international and Polish dishes in a casual setting. There’s also a bar open 24 hours a day for snacks and drinks, perfect for unwinding after exploring the city. The hotel’s location allows easy access to major attractions such as the Old Town, the Warsaw Uprising Museum, and the Palace of Culture and Science. For business travellers, meeting facilities and workspaces are available, and private underground parking adds extra convenience. With its friendly staff, practical amenities, and excellent location, the ibis Warszawa Centrum offers great value for anyone looking to stay close to the heart of Warsaw.

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