Conrad Maldives Rangali Island the only Maldivian Hotel to Make Condé Nast Traveler Magazine’s Gold List of Best Hotels in the World

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the only resort in the Maldives to feature in the 2014 Condé Nast Traveler annual Gold List awards. The Gold List is an authoritative and influential travel award described as “the world's best ranking of the world's best properties” and is compiled by travellers voting for their favourite hotels and resorts worldwide.

“We’re delighted to be included in the Gold List and would like to thank all of our guests who voted for us,” said general manager Peter Nilsson. “At Conrad Maldives, we aim to be the leading luxury resort in the Maldives with the most diverse dining options, outstanding leisure and a unique “three resorts in one” concept, so we’re proud to be acknowledged as one of the best in the world by our guests”.

This comes hot on the heels of other prestigious awards, such as being included in the Conde Nast Traveler magazine’s list of 100 Best Hotels in the World; being listed as the “Best Luxury Resort in Maldives 2013” by Diner’s Club magazine; being voted “Best Luxury Gourmet Resort” by Senses magazine in Germany and winning “World’s Leading Water Villas” and “The Maldives’ Leading Resort” at the World Travel Awards.

The full list of winners in the 2014 Gold List can be seen here: http://www.cntraveler.com/gold-list/2014

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island welcomes private jets as runway for private jets opens just 20 minutes from luxury resort

Private jet owners have an excellent reason to jet in to the luxury Conrad Maldives Rangali Island following the opening of the nearby Maamigili Island airport’s runway to private jets. With the airport being only 20 minutes from the luxury resort, guests can land and be at the resort in under an hour, avoiding the queues and immigration bottlenecks at Male International Airport.

“Maamigili Island Airport is very close to our resort making it a convenient alternative to flying into Male,” said general manager Peter Nilsson. “Now that the runway is open to private jet aircraft, anyone can fly directly in to South Ari Atoll and be sunning themselves on our beaches in under an hour”.

Operated by Villa Air Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary company of Villa Shipping and Trading Company, Maamigili Airport offers arriving passengers the minimum amount of fuss, ensuring the transition from private jet to Conrad Maldives’ private speedboat (or yacht, if preferred) is a quick and smooth process.

Conrad Maldives Announces ‘Snorkelling with the Scientists’ Excursions

Starting in May and running for two months, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island announces a new twice-weekly excursion for its guests. Called ‘Whale Sharks - Snorkelling with the Scientists’, the excursion consists of a three-hour snorkelling trip led by marine biologists from the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP). Priced at US$200 per person, these excursions offer guests an unrivalled chance to see and swim with whale sharks and learn more about these incredible creatures from the experts.

During the excursion, the scientists will share information about the life of these little-known fish and offer insights into the habits and behaviours of whale sharks. Profits from the package will go to the MWSRP, which is a registered charity in the United Kingdom conducting valuable research into whale sharks.

While whale shark snorkelling excursions are available at the resort all year round, the snorkelling with scientists excursions will run twice yearly: in May and June, and again when the researchers from the MWSRP team return to Conrad Maldives in November to continue their research for four more months.

Found in the Maldives all year, the whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is a massive filter-feeding shark and, being the largest fish in the world, is one of the country’s wildlife ‘must sees’. Very little is known about the whale shark, which is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list and classified as ‘vulnerable to extinction’. The MWSRP’s research is aimed at filling these knowledge gaps, enabling the effective conservation of this species in the future.

Sightings, video and whale shark information will be regularly updated on the resort’s facebook page: www.facebook.com/ConradMaldivesRangaliIsland. More information about MWSRP is on the charity’s website: http://maldiveswhalesharkresearch.org

Picture credit: whale shark photo courtesy of Maldives Whale Shark Research Project at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.

Conrad Maldives Unveils Three Spectacular New Suites

Following an $8 million renovation, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has added three new suites to its roster of luxe accommodations. The award-winning six-star resort, situated over two islands, has been part of an ongoing refurbishment that started with the transformation of its 28 Water Villas, which were altered into contemporary overwater retreats in November.

It has now upped the ante with the Premiere Water Suite, a 3,282-square-feet hideaway perched upon stilts above the lagoon. A feeling of lightness and liquidity pervades the rooms: two bedrooms with beds that appear to float above the floor, sunken Jacuzzi’s in each of the two bathrooms, and a living area with floor-to-ceiling windows create an illusion of infinite space. A spacious wooden deck, graced with two swimming pools, faces west to showcase the theatrical Maldivian sunsets.

The two equally new and spectacular Beach Suites boast nearly 7000-square-feet of tropical opulence. One suite faces west, taking in decadent dusk views; the eastward-gazing sibling is steps from the island’s coral reef. Each suite has two separate bedrooms with open-air bathrooms. The garden, equipped with two plunge pools, leads to unending white sandy beaches, the mecca for all Maldivian pilgrims.

CONRAD MALDIVES COLLECTS FIVE AWARDS IN TWO WEEKS‏

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the proud winner of five different awards in the past two weeks; collecting two from the prestigious annual World Travel Awards, one from VIP Traveller magazine and two more from the online travel magazine www.smarttravelasia.com.

“At Conrad Maldives we always strive to be the best in everything we do and we take great pride in setting the standards that others can only follow,” said General Manager Carsten Schieck. “We receive these awards with great pleasure and would like to thank everyone who voted for us. We see this as acknowledgement by our guests that we are achieving our goals and take this as inspiration to do even better in the future”.

The awards won by Conrad Maldives Rangali Island were: “Maldives’ Leading Spa Resort” and “Maldives’ Leading Water Villas” at the prestigious World Travel Awards. The resort’s outstanding villas were awarded “The Best Suite in the World” by VIP Traveller Magazine Germany, while frequent travellers at www.smarttravelasia.com voted the luxury resort as the “Best Spa Hotel & Resort in Asia” and also gave it fifth place in the “Best Leisure Hotels & Resorts in Asia” category.

Conrad Maldives: Reshaping the concept of luxury

30 Water Villas Will Undergo A Complete Transformation In 2011

Having set the standard for luxury travel in the Maldives for over 15 years, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island raises the bar once again with the complete renovation of 28 Water Villas and two Premier Water villas from 15 May. Expected to run for six months, the renovation work will see a complete transformation of these villas into ultra-luxurious contemporary over-water retreats with additional decking, private pool, entirely new furniture and sublime bathrooms with picture windows overlooking the ocean.

“Rangali Island is the smaller of the resort’s two islands,” says Regional General Manager Carsten Schieck, “and it offers the natural setting for the pure beauty and luxury that guests expect to find in the Maldives. The complete renovation of our Water villas will ensure that these rooms retain their position as some of the most outstanding villas in the country.”

During the renovation, 28 Water villas will be taken apart and completely renovated from the inside out, while two Premier Water villas will see subtle updates on the interior. The layout of the Water Villas becomes open plan, giving a sense of space. The highlight of the architecture is the desk which is set over glass panels giving the impression that it is floating over the water below. The décor of the new Water villas features elegant natural tones of wood and soft whites with gentle shades of lavender and green. Understated, recessed lighting adds to the contemporary feel.

As part of the renovation, half of Rangali Island, one restaurant, Vilu, and one of the resort’s two spas will be closed. The rest of the resort will continue to operate as usual with guests having the option of dining at eight restaurants and bars. The Spa Retreat on the main island will offer the full treatment list from the Over-Water Spa during its six-month closure.

In all Water Villas guests will delight in the latest in modern amenities including flat screen satellite TV, CD stereo with iPod connectors, DVD player, ‘Nespresso’ tea/coffee Machine, mini bar and IDD telephone. The renovated villas are expected to open on 1 November 2011 with room rates starting from US $1,000 per night for two.

With the Spa Retreat and Beach Villas on Rangalifinolhu Island and Water Villas on Rangali Island, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers the widest choice of accommodation in the Maldives, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of different experiences without ever leaving the resort.

Payment increment ends employee strike at Conrad Maldives Rangali

Employees of the Conrad Maldives Rangali Resort called off a strike last evening, which has been in effect since Tuesday, after the resort’s management agreed to increase their salaries and service charges.

A police team, which the employees claimed to have been sporting riot gear – a report that the police later denied – was dispensed to the resort.

An employee, who wished to remain anonymous, said the management agreed to increase the salaries and the service charges of the employees to the same level as other resorts of the same level, after the police arrived at the resort.

“The management was having direct contact with us every now and then. We called off our strike about half an hour ago after the management agreed to increase the service charge to the range in other resorts of this level. We will see the amount we receive in the next month as a service charge,” the employee said.

The employee added that the police intervention was one of the reasons for the strike ending. A police spokesperson, however, denied reports of the police being equipped with riot gear.

“The police travelled to the island but were not in riot gear,” the official said.

The employee further noted that the police spoke with the employees.

“Police in casual wear met with us and said that they are in the resort because it’s their mandate to protect the economy of the Maldives, not to use force against the employees,” the employee said.

“We told the police we don’t believe that the police should intervene in the matter; we were not causing any disturbances to the guests, not vandalizing any property, not committing a criminal offence. We were on a civil disobedience.” 

www.haveeru.com.mv 

Related news:
Conrad Maldives resort employees on strike

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Names Willy Ribbe New Resort Mgr

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is pleased to announce the appointment of Willy Ribbe as Resort Manager. Ribbe previously served as general manager of the Ritz-Carlton Doha, Sharq Village & Spa in Qatar for several years.

Ribbe has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry and holds a prestigious background working across three continents: Europe, the Middle East and the United States. Beginning his career at Marriott Hotels in the food and beverage division as an Executive Chef, he transitioned straight to management positions at the Prague Marriott Hotel, Renaissance Prague Hotel and Marriott Executive Apartments. He is fluent in English and German and married with two teenage daughters.

“I am excited to contribute my knowledge of luxury hospitality and the region to Conrad Maldives Rangali Island,” said Ribbe. “I am looking forward to continuing the success of one of the leading resorts in the Maldives.”

Ribbe has assumed responsibility for all operational aspects of the resort, overseeing accommodation, leisure facilities and the sales and marketing functions of the property. Ribbe will report directly to Carsten Schieck, Island Chief and Regional General Manager Maldives and Sri Lanka for Hilton Worldwide. Schieck said, “I am confident that Ribbe’s global industry expertise will support Hilton Worldwide’s dedication to the Maldives in addition to further evolving Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.”

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island’s restaurant Ithaa, the world’s first undersea restaurant, just celebrated its fifth anniversary and is now offering guests the opportunity to spend the night underwater in the transformable Ithaa Suite for two. In addition, the resort was just named the 2010 “Indian Ocean Leading Resort” and “Maldives Leading Spa Resort” in the World Travelers Awards.

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island boasts 50 luxurious water villas, 79 exotic beach villas and 21 fabulous spa water villas with private treatment rooms. Situated on a picturesque corner of the Maldives and spread across two islands, surrounded by a vibrant coral reef and lagoons, the resort provides world leading standards and has twice been voted ‘Best Hotel in the World’ and several times ‘Best Resort’.

www.hotelinteractive.com

Ten of the world’s most amazing bedrooms - fit for a king

Specialists in proving luxury holidaysabroad, sovereign.com, has discovered 10 of the world’s most amazing 5-star hotel bedrooms fit for a king with aquarium views, glass floors, bling beds and even healing waters!

• Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Maldives
If you fancy a change then how about a room with a round bed! The Sunset Villas at the Conrad Maldives not only have this focual point but also have the relaxing charm of being in crystal clear waters and the chance to eat 16ft below sea level in the world’s first all-glass restaurant.




• The Beach House at Manafaru, Maldives
The Maldives ooze decadence and water villas at The Beach House in Manafuru have a glass floor at the end of the bed looking down into the crystal clear water. You can spot tropical fish and have the relaxing reflection of water in your room without even leaving the bed!

Read the full article: click here

Celebrity chef in the Maldives

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and Beach House Maldives, which will join the Waldorf Astoria Collection on 1 March, will offer guests the chance to learn gourmet secrets from Sarah Wiener, an Austrian celebrity chef visiting the Maldives between 24th February and 12th March 2010. Sarah Wiener is a high profile author, businesswoman and TV Chef based in Germany with shows including ‘The Culinary Adventures of Sarah Wiener’, combining her passion for travel and cooking. As well as operating four restaurants; a bistro at the Academy of Arts, restaurant at the ‘Hamburger Bahnhof’, ‘Das Kaffehaus’ at the Museum of Communication and ‘SpeiseZimmer’, Sarah also runs the ‘Sarah Wiener Foundation’ promoting healthy eating for children.



The first event will take place at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island on 24th of February where guests can join Sarah for a food and wine experience in the renowned under-ground Wine Cellar, followed by a similar event in Ithaa, the world’s first all-glass under-sea restaurant on 26th February. Sarah’s residency at Beach House Maldives, The Waldorf Astoria Collection will run from 8th March to 12th March, with dinner events at Medium Rare restaurant on 8th and 11th March, a dinner in The Cellar on Wednesday 10th March and food and Austrian wine pairing at the Herb Garden, home to the Chef’s plentiful herb supplies on 12th March.

The food and wine experiences cost from US$120 per person at Beach House Maldives, The Waldorf Astoria Collection for a four-course dinner at Medium Rare (not including wines) and from US$350 per person at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island based on a Wine Cellar dinner including food and wine (rates subject to 10% service charge). For further information on the resorts and bookings visit www.conradmaldives.com or www.beachhousecollection.com.For further information on Sarah Wiener visit www.sarahwiener.de

Sponsor a Whale Shark this Christmas in Maldives

Stuck for gift ideas this Christmas? The Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (maldiveswhalesharkresearch.org) has come up with a new twist on the stocking filler with a whale shark sponsorship scheme. The UK charity has created this new scheme to fund their ongoing research and keep the project alive with help from The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.

The whale shark sponsorships provide a memorable Christmas present and one that will bring great pleasure to those interested in conservation and wildlife, as well as people who are interested in seeing these enormous creatures in their natural habitat. As well as 122 Whale Sharks currently in the database, there are also a small number of whale sharks without names at present, allowing sponsors to give them whatever name they desire!



Sponsors will have exclusive access to information regarding their whale shark including when and where they have been sighted and how much they have grown. A certificate will also be sent upon sponsorship of a whale shark thanking the sponsor for their contribution and explaining where their money will be spent.

The dedicated MWSRP team will be returning to their research site on the South Ari Atoll in the Maldives in December to continue their important research and MPA (Marine Protected Area) development work with stakeholders and the local community.

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island will once again provide support by giving the team accommodation on a local island, supplies, as well as diving equipment and the use of their boats. Guests at the resort will also be able to take part in the research by accompanying the team on their excursions to study the whale sharks, taking samples and measurements and assisting the team with their conservation work.

The not for profit organisation has already paved the way in establishing new whale shark guidelines in the country, with the Maldivian government requesting that their direction and hard work establishes community and tourism industry guidelines to protect the vulnerable species.

A 12 month Whale Shark Sponsorship scheme is available for a donation of $200. For more information on the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme – Registered charity number 1130369 – visit the website mwsrp.org/adopt-a-shark/

For more information on the resort visit conradmaldives.com.

easier.com

Save thousands on last minute luxury in the Maldives

The Hilton Family Maldives has launched a range of fantastic offers for departures to their portfolio of three resorts between now and December, with savings of over £2500 per couple and a wealth of added value including free seaplane transfers and complementary nights.

Save 65% at the Hilton Maldives/ Iru Fushi Resort & Spa
After joining the Hilton Family on 1 July 2009, the stunning 52 acre resort has undergone a wealth of upgrades including new dining experiences and a new look Spa. Save £2060 per couple on departures between 1 November and 23 December and enjoy seven-nights in a Beach Villa with private outdoor bathroom garden and beach cabana from just £1549 per person. Price includes BA direct flights to Male, seaplane transfers and breakfast. Book with Sovereign Luxury Holidays at sovereign.com.

Free half board, free transfers and seven nights for the price of four at The Beach House at Manafaru
Set to join the Waldorf Astoria Collection in March 2010, the stunning private island in the far north of the Maldives is offering a wealth of complementary extras for guests travelling between now and 23 December. With all Villas featuring a private swimming pool and butler service it is tropical luxury at its finest. Kuoni is offering seven-nights in a Water Villa with private pool from just £1899 per person – a saving of £2961 per couple – for departures up to 5 December 2009. Price is based on two sharing and includes half board, domestic sea and boat transfers and international flights with Sri Lankan Airlines from Heathrow. To book visit kuoni.co.uk and quote tour ref: IO0130.

Two free nights and complementary seaplane transfers at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island
The award-winning twin-island resort of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is home to some of the Maldives must-visit attractions including Ithaa, the world’s first all-glass under-sea restaurant and the Maldives only destination Spa Retreat. Departing on 18th November, Hayes & Jarvis (hayesandjarvis.com) is offering seven-night stays for £2,229 per person (based on two sharing) – a saving of 33 per cent (£1,104pp) including two free nights. The package includes seven nights’ accommodation in a Beach Villa, daily breakfast, return Qatar Airways flights from London Heathrow and complimentary seaplane transfers.

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Wining and dining in the Indian Ocean

Rising star chef, Ethan Stowell and renowned Californian Master Sommelier, Evan Goldstein, will be demonstrating their expertise during two wining and dining experiences at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island on 11 and 13 August 2009.

Guests at the resort can enjoy their blend of American talents at two unique dinners. The first on August 11th will be held in Ithaa; the world’s first all-glass under-sea restaurant, five metres below the surface with 180-degrees of panoramic underwater views. Evan Goldstein will liaise with Ethan Stowell to select the perfect wine to complement each delicious course.

On August 13th, guests are invited to the resort’s famous Wine Cellar, which boasts a 30,000 strong wine collection, and from where they can sample boutique wines carefully chosen by Evan Goldstein to match the culinary skills of Ethan Stowell and gain an insight into the intricacies of wine pairing and tasting.

Ethan Stowell is famed for his simple Italian-inspired cuisine at popular Seattlehotspots, Union, Tavolàta and How to Cook a Wolf, as well as soon to be opened Italian seafood restaurant, Anchovies & Olives.

Beginning his career in various catering jobs, Ethan Stowell quickly went on to work in established restaurants including Seegar’s in Atlanta, and as sous chef at Nell’s and The Painted Table in Seattle. His achievements were duly recognised last year when he was named “Best New Chef” by Food & Wine Magazine.

One of America’s most prolific food and wine industry experts, Evan Goldstein is best known for his role as President and Chief Education Officer at Full Circle Wine Solutions Inc. in San Francisco.The global wine and beverage education firm uses various sommelier educators tocreate wine programmes and hospitality training and host first-class wine tastings across the world.

His experiences in restaurants such as Le Saintongeais in Paris and Auberge du Soleil in California, as well as opening the restaurant, Square One in San Francisco with his celebrated mother Chef and author, Joyce Goldstein, earned him countless awards and secured his place as the eighth American and youngest ever at the time to pass the prestigious Master Sommelier examination in 1987.

In addition to training and examining candidates for the Court of Master Sommeliers as a Founding Board member, Evan has also written several books including the critically acclaimed, Perfect Pairings and Wine and Food Pairing co-authored with his mother. His sequel wine and food book, Daring Pairings is planned for release next year.

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is famous for its fine dining, boasting seven award-winning restaurants and three bars, classing it as a leading resort for gourmet cuisine.

The 11 August Ithaa Dinner costs $380 for guests on bed and breakfast or $320 for guests on half board. The 13 August Wine Cellar Dinner costs $280 for guests on bed and breakfast and $220 for guests on half board. All prices include wines. For reservations email maldivesinfo@conradhotels.com.

Luxury Holidays Direct (luxuryholidaysdirect.com) is offering two free nights on seven night bookings in a Beach Villa from £2165 per person - a saving of £750 per person! Price includes breakfast, return Economy Class flights on Qatar Airways from London Heathrow/Gatwick and Manchester Airport, airport taxes and private seaplane transfers. Applicable for travel between 01 August to 23 December 09 and offer must be booked by 15 August 09. Terms & Conditions apply.

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Carsten Schieck promoted to regional GM Hilton Maldives

Carsten Schieck, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island General Manager and Island Chief has been promoted to the newly created position of Regional General Manager Maldives.

The role will see Schieck responsible for all operations under the Hilton family of brands in the Maldives, which will include the opening of the Hilton Maldives/Iru Fushi Resort & Spa scheduled for 1 July 2009, the addition of the Beach House to the Waldorf Astoria Collection on 1 November 2009 and the launch of Doubletree Hilton Malé, set to open in 2011.

As part of the Hilton expansion, Boris Blobel has been promoted to Resort Manager, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, following a Director of Operations role for the Conrad Shanghai pre-opening and four months in a Resident Manager role on Rangali Island.

Frederic Lebegue, former Resident Manager at the Conrad Bali Resort & Spa, will also play a key role in the project, currently working as Task Force General Manager for the strategic rebranding of the Hilton Maldives/Iru Fushi Resort & Spa and set to commence as General Manager of the Beach House, Waldorf Astoria Collection on 1 July.

As General Manager and Island Chief of the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Schieck has helped to establish its position as one of the leading luxury resorts in the world with a wealth of international accolades to its name.

Martin Rinck, President Asia Pacific, Hilton Hotels Corporation commented “Since taking over the role of General Manager of the Hilton Maldives in August 2002, Carsten has been instrumental in taking the resort to a truly world-class level, pioneering product innovations such as Ithaa, the award-winning world’s first all-glass under-sea restaurant and guiding his team through a successful re-branding to a Conrad Resort in 2007.

This promotion reflects Carsten’s valued contribution over the years and we are confident that his expertise and leadership skills will position Hilton well to capitalise on our success in the Maldives.”

Anita Foss joins Conrad Maldives as Spa Manager

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has appointed Anita Foss as Spa Manager.

Anita will manage the Destination Spa Retreat, an Over-Water Spa with glass-floored treatment rooms and an Ice-Cream Spa for younger guests.

Anita has a wealth of global experience from luxury day spas such as the Aveda Concept Spa at Harvey Nichols in London, the Spa de Serville in New Zealand and the Langham Hotel Chuan Spa chain.

Most recently Spa Director and Consultant for the Chuan Spas, Anita’s role involved travelling between Langham hotels in California, Boston, Hong Kong and Beijing.

Her previous Spa Management stint at the Chuan Spa Melbourne saw the spa receive a Leading Spa of the World score of 93%.

The Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers guests three distinct spa offerings to cater to the taste of every guest.

For those seeking a tailor-made holistic programme incorporating nutrition, naturopathy, exercise and treatments, the Spa Retreat is a self-contained resort within-a-resort incorporating 21 spacious Spa Water Villas each with their own private treatment room and mini-gym.

The Spa Water Villas adjoin a central spa comprising nine treatment rooms, five private pavillions with sauna and steam room and Jacuzzi or private plunge pool, an organic bio-dynamic spa restaurant, hair salon, boutique, juice bar, sun deck, relaxation area and a natural herbal dispensary.

All guests are guided through a tailor-made spa programme in relaxing surroundings and have access to leading yoga, fitness and spa experts at special events held regularly through the year.

For a more pampering spa experience, the glass-floored treatment rooms and outdoor Jacuzzi at the Over-Water Spa are home to exclusive treatments from the Siddartha and Dorissima range, based on the spiritual properties of Ayurveda.

And for the younger guests, Rangalifinolhu Island houses an Ice-Cream Spa with highlights including the Super Sundae Scrub!

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a twin island resort where its Spa Retreat and Spa Water Villas reside on Rangalifinolhu Island while its Over-Water Villas are set on stilts on Rangali Island.

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