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6 special spots to ‘pop the question’ in Cape Town

May 21, 2022 No Comments

You’re looking for the perfect spot to pop the question (or you keep imagining the magical place that will serve as your proposal setting, soon to be hinted at when you spontaneously take your partner there).

However, with so many options in places like Cape Town, picking one place can be overwhelming for the best of us.

Before we drop the deets on 6 special spots to ‘pop the question’ in Cape Town, it’s worth noting a few disclaimers.

1. No matter where you choose, even if it’s the comfort of your own garden, it will still be a special moment. The place doesn’t define the importance of asking someone to spend their life with you, the person does!

2. Too much pressure on getting everything perfect can take away from your own enjoyment of the moment, or your partners.

3. Some of the most magical and tear-jerking proposals have happened in the most obscure places, or the ones that are personal to your relationship. If your partner is sentimental, then proposing at their favourite sunset spot, the place you went on your first date, or somewhere where you both remember laughing for hours can mean far more than a place boasting grandeur or tantalising views.

Now, for those who are all about scenery, and places that are known for their romantic spins, here are some top picks in the Mother City:

1.The Rock sunset spot

Known for its incredible views, The Rock sunset spot marries intimacy and Cape sunsets are their finest, an incredible spot to share with the person to whom you’d give the whole sunset eternally if you could. The Rock is a perfect ‘pop the question spot’ that applies to any kind of lover, but fits best for the one who always ensures that watching the sunset together is on the cards.

Where:405 Ocean View Drive, Bantry Bay

2. Kirstenbosch National

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens homes everything a nature lover could hope to experience in one epic garden. Not many people can say they made the special decision to be together forever and always at a new 7th Wonder of The World, but you can. The Boomslang Walkway is one of the most sought after spots in the Gardens, hosting breathtaking views and an explorer’s thrill. To add an even more romantic spin, have a picnic with Fynkos and enjoy nature’s bounty as rolling lawns and flowers surround you. For someone who loves mother Earth almost as much as they love you, Kirstenbosch will certainly serve as that fairytale backdrop.

Where:Rhodes drive, Newlands

3. The Paris of Cape Town – Franschoek

Franschhoek is renowned for its romantic energy, challenging the Parisians on their notions of love being in the air. A trip to Franschoek means divine food, lots of wine and even perfume-making – all leading up to the big ask. For a classic proposal, try Le Petite La Colombe, which is not only one of the top restaurants in the world but a Wineland’s favourite for proposals. If your partner is all about grandeur and would sell a kidney to live in France, then this spot fits the bill. If you’re looking for something a little different, Babylonstoren boasts spoils of romantic magic, from the greenhouse to a gorgeous canoe trip – arguably one of the most romantic spots.

Where: Le Petit Colombe | Leeu Estates, Dassenberg Rd, Franschhoek
Babylonstoren | Klapmuts – Simondium Rd, Simondium

4.At the top of the Cape Wheel

They make you feel like you’re on top of the world, so why not capitalise on it romantically? The Waterfront’s famous Cape Wheel offers picnic options where you can add some champagne and truly cheers to a beautiful future amongst the stars. If your relationship has always felt like a film plot, then entering the next chapter this way will certainly be Nicholas Sparks approved.

Where: Dock Rd, V&A Waterfront

5.Norval Art Foundation

Art is tangible and visible emotion. Norval Art Foundation is easily one of the most aesthetic places to propose, and for the art lover in your relationship, it’s a perfect painting. Who wouldn’t want to make such a special decision surrounded by art as your audience? Norval Art Foundation hosts so many curious spots to share the most romantic moments of your life, with new exhibitions constantly in the works, ready to build your audience.

Where:4 Steenberg Rd, Tokai

6. Table Mountain, of course

This list wouldn’t be complete without vouching for a seat at the finest table in Cape Town. Whether you decide to take a hike along Table Mountain National Park’s trails, ride the cableway all the way to the top or go to the new TAP bar (an addition part of the Aerial Cable Way’s delicious ‘above the world’s experiences) you simply can’t go wrong with the gem of our city.

Where: Table Mountain National Park

Picture: @gracecharlottephoto

In Advice

Honeymoon destinations inspired by TV shows

May 17, 2022 No Comments

It’s time to ring in your recent nuptials with a heavenly honeymoon. If you’re a super-fan of a particular show, why not make your getaway an extra special trip by visiting their filming locations? Even if you haven’t seen these shows, these destinations promise memorable moments with your love.

Dubrovnik, Croatia – Game of Thrones

While many Croatian cities doubled up as filming locations for the popular HBO series, Game of Thrones, none are more famous than Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik’s old town is home to the show’s Kings Landing, capital of the mythical Seven Kingdoms. There are multiple locations throughout old town that will be immediately recognisable to GOT fans. Most famously, Queen Cersei did her walk of shame right here at the Jesuit Staircase. Scenes were also filmed on the City Walls and the West Harbour, at the entrance of the old town, where the battle of Blackwater Bay was shot.

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Niagara Falls, Canada – The Office

Considering The Office is one of the most loved TV shows of all time, this is one destination many would be thrilled at. Fan favourites Jim and Pam famously got married under the falls. After growing incredibly stressed, Jim and Pam ditch their wedding plans the day of, instead hopping aboard a ferry and getting hitched in a private ceremony officiated by the ship’s captain.

Retrace their steps by taking a ferry to the falls and visit the Hornblower. Don’t forget to end the evening with a moonlit stroll along the brightly illuminated Falls.

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Paris – Sex and the City

You’ll need little encouragement to visit the city of love and lights, but we’ll give you one anyway. Sex and the City, the iconic early-2000s show detailing the lives of four New York women, is much-loved by fans. While Carrie and the girls call New York home, she found herself glamorously living in Paris in the final season. Channel your inner Carrie and Big with a romantic trip to Paris. Make sure to stop off at the Plaza Athénée where she stayed, and take a romantic stroll on Le Pont Des Arts, the Lovers Bridge, where Carrie and Big famously reunited.

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New York – Gossip Girl / Friends

The Big Apple is full of filming locations open to the public. Fan-favourite Gossip Girl had every viewer wishing they could live in the upper West Side. For most of us, our closest bet to living their glamorous lives is by is visiting the filming locations. From the Palace Hotel where it-girl Serena Van der Woodsen lived to the steps of the Met where the girls of Constance would congregate, you will love living it up in New York. Xoxo, Gossip Girl.

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California – American Horror Story

Take a trip to California for a spooky spin on your honeymoon. Los Angeles is home to an incredibly famous, and incredibly eerie, house. The Alfred Rosenheim Mansion, or Murder House as American Horror Story (AHS) fans know it, is actually a popular filming location, having appeared in Spider-Man and Seabiscuit. Other notable filming locations you can visit include Cecil Hotel, which appeared in season 5, and Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana, home to Briarcliff Asylum in Season Two.

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England – Downton Abbey & The Crown

Fans or Downton Abbey and The Crown will have a royal time in England. Travellers can visit central filming location, Highclere Castle, which viewers will know as Downton manor, as well as a host of other beautiful buildings featured on the show.

Lovers of the British Monarchy-centred show, The Crown, can visit Lancaster House in Westminster, which serves as the filming location for Buckingham Palace’s recreated State Rooms. Or, if you want, you can visit the real place itself and pop down to Buckingham Palace to bask in royalty.

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Image: Unsplash

In Advice

Unique honeymoon stays in South Africa

May 8, 2022 No Comments

A honeymoon is already a romantic trip, but why not make it even more special with an unusual destination? Standard hotel rooms and airbnbs are are fun but they’re also a little bit predictable.

South Africa has a few weird and wonderful locations that you can call ‘home’ for a few days while celebrating your newly wedded bliss. Here are a few of our favourites.

Old Mac Daddy

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Just an hour out of Cape Town and set amongst the apple orchards, Old Mac Daddy offers open spaces, mountain paths, a lakeside beach and plenty of outdoor activities. Part caravan park, part designer farm lodge – this little hotel is truly unique.

They have a sleek collection of 12 themed vintage Airstream Trailer Suites, each uniquely designed by some of Cape Town’s top artists and designers.

Visit the website HERE.

Rovos Rail

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Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. In a series of bespoke train journeys lasting from 48 hours to 15 days, Rovos Rail links some of the continent’s greatest destinations with a variety of off-train excursions.

The vintage carriage offers 3 suite types: Royal, Deluxe and Pullman. The suites accommodate one or two passengers with the option of double or twin beds. All have en-suites with shower, toilet, basin and bath (Royal only), tea facilities, safes, air conditioning, linen and amenities and are serviced daily.

Visit the website HERE.

Kagga Kamma Cave Suites

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Go back into nature and live like our forefathers, albeit it in a much more luxurious way. Kagga Kamma in the Swartruggens region of the Cederberg Mountains offers ten unique man-made ‘Cave’ Suites that were skilfully constructed to integrate with the natural Sandstone formations.

The facade of the ‘Cave’ Suites are man-made, while the back interior wall is natural sandstone. Each ‘Cave’ Suite has a small terrace with a view and is simply furnished with comfort in mind. Each ‘Cave’ is equipped with a double bed, air-conditioner, and coffee/tea making facilities, en-suite bathroom, bathrobes, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries.

Visit their website HERE.

Speekhout treehouse, Eastern Cape

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Live out your childhood fantasies by staying in a real-life treehouse. Speekhout offer an adult wooden treehouse built in the boughs of an ancient sprawling red Karee tree (Rhus Lancea). The dwelling is enveloped by the branches of a living tree, with lush vegetation and bush as a private garden
It is free-standing and away from other guest accommodation on the farm, also making it naturally private.

Equipped as a self-catering getaway with gas and electricity, the Tree House also has a newly installed enclosed fireplace making cold karoo winter nights warm inside. There is an outdoor braai area for starry summer nights and mountain views alike.

Visit their website HERE.

Houseboat Myrtle, Knysna Lagoon

Spend the day floating over the Knysna lagoon on the Houseboat Myrtle, a totally self-contained wooden cottage on the water. Myrtle is one of the original Knysna houseboats and has a lovely wood finish inside. With its two decks, it’s perfect for lazy days floating on the lagoon. From the deck, you can enjoy views of the lagoon, the quays and the Knysna Heads, catch fish or just relax…

The boat is moored in a permanent location, yet turns with the changing tides or winds, giving you the variety of the 360 Degrees views of Knysna from both decks. You can even lay in bed and watch as the boat turns and changes your bed view.

Visit their website HERE.

Picture: Instagram / Old Mac Daddy

In Advice

5 Reasons we can’t get enough of the Seychelles

April 12, 2022 No Comments

One thing that we love the most about honeymooning in Africa is that there are so many incredible options to choose from. However, there’s nothing more idyllic than soaking up the glorious African sun, drinking cocktails poolside, and enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

As travel restrictions continue to ease, more and more newlyweds are looking across the waters to book their honeymoons. The Seychelles has continuously made the list of the top places to visit on your honeymoon, and with good reason.

It’s a breath-taking paradise just off the east coast of Africa and home to incredible culture, activities and sights. With its Insta-perfect beaches, luxurious accommodations and jam-packed itinerary, it’s not difficult to see why South African bridal couples are obsessed.

There’s no visa requirement

For South African citizens, travelling to the gorgeous islands of The Seychelles is a breeze. No visa is required for a maximum stay of 3 months, making it the perfect spot for a honeymoon – with a valid passport of course.

It’s nearby

Just off the coast of East Africa, roughly 1 600 km from Kenya, there won’t be any long and unbearable flights involved when travelling to The Seychelles, making it a quick and easy option. It will take you about 5 hours to get there, and flights leave regularly from Johannesburg or Durban through Air Seychelles.

They have a similar climate

Warm tropical weather covers the island year round, with temperatures rarely hitting extremely hot or cold levels. Being used to our own Mediterranean climate, South Africans migrate towards the warm and sunny island tropics for fun days in the sun and exciting water activities.

It’s a gorgeous island escape

Perhaps one of the most obvious attractions of The Seychelles is its absolute luxury. White sandy beaches and crystal blue waters create a breath-taking backdrop, while the weather conditions are perfectly suited for all sorts of activities. Besides the beaches, The Seychelles also has its own gorgeous mountainous terrains and tropical forests filled with beautiful wildlife to explore.

There’s plenty to do

With perfect day weather and a range of landscapes, there’s no shortage of creativity when it comes to activites and adventure. You can experience the incredible roaming creatures on wildlife tours, go bird-watching, snorkelling, or take part in adventurous endeavours with island hopping, skiing and kayaking.

Feature Image: johan_drone_adventures

In Advice

Stargazing honeymoon destinations: Where to see the stars in South Africa

March 11, 2022 No Comments

There’s nothing more romantic than grabbing a blanket, snuggled up with your boo as you lay underneath a canopy of stars. Your honeymoon is meant to be the start of your spectacular journey together, so why not make it a magical one with a shooting star or two. South Africa is home to some incredible honeymoon destinations – away from the hustle and bustle and glare of city lights.

If you’re looking to enjoy the splendours of the night sky with your main squeeze by your side, here are a few honeymoon destinations that are perfect for a little star gazing.

Cederberg Mountain Conservancy, Western Cape

A few hours outside of Cape Town lies this magical oasis filled with some of the country’s most stunning rock formations. While it’s bursting with some incredible history, the Cederberg Wilderness also has some pretty great spots for couples looking to gaze up at the night’s sky. The Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve is famous for its one-of-a-kind accommodation, which … you guessed it, is under the stars.

honeymoon destinations south africa — Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve

Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga

If you’re looking for a little adventure with your stargazing, then nothing beats a honeymoon in the wild Kruger National Park. Spend your nights listening to the majestic roars of lions while making a wish on a shooting star. It doesn’t get more perfect than that! If you’re really looking for a glittering showcase from our galaxy, then head to the northern region of the park. A luxurious honeymoon experience is at your fingertips when making a booking at The Outpost or keep things simple with Punda Maria Camp.

Amphitheatre Central, Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal

The couple who hikes together, stays together. Isn’t that how the saying goes? Either way, if you and your significant other are looking to work for some incredible views, then the Drakensberg’s Amphitheatre is a must for those looking to stretch their legs and enjoy the stars. Pitch your tent and enjoy the view, or head down to spend some quality time in nature with Thendele Camp.

Mapungubwe National Park and World Heritage Site, Limpopo

This incredible region is situated Musina, in the far north of Limpopo and nothing showcases South Africa’s beauty quite like this destination. If you’d love to spend your honeymoon listening to the wild calls of nature and the sweet gurgling of flowing rivers, then spend the night and enjoy a starry bath with Leokwe Camp.

Sutherland, Northern Cape

The charming town of Sutherland is home to the largest telescope in the southern hemisphere – the Southern African Large Telescope. With that reputation, you’re bound to have an epic stargazing experience that will leave you starry-eyed for weeks to come. Die Heks se Huis : Amethyst is also a great little Airbnb, and not at all what its name suggests.

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In Advice

Say ‘I do’ to these top honeymoon tips

February 23, 2021 No Comments

After the stress of planning your big day, the honeymoon is the perfect time to sit back and relax while you enjoy your first days as a newlywed couple.

Your honeymoon is about romance, adventure, and intimate time with your new spouse. Naturally, you don’t want to have a care in the world besides what outfit you’re gonna wear and to remember to wear sunscreen when out and about.

For stress-free honeymoon planning and a trip that’s nothing short of perfect, follow this easy checklist.

Allocate a captain

Consider electing one person to be responsible for the majority of the travel details. While both views are valid and considered, things are more streamlined if one person handles the reigns. This might be the partner who is handling fewer of the wedding details.

Set a budget

Work out what you can afford to pay first, then make plans around it. This will gauge the destinations, hotels, transport and activities you can include in your trip. Although a lavish trip may be exceptional, keep in mind that life goes on after the honeymoon so be wise about funds and make sure you have something to come back to.

Consider the season

You may get married on a hot, South African summer’s day but if you’re heading north to the likes of Europe it’s likely to be significantly cooler (or the other way round). Take note of rainy seasons – you don’t want to get caught in a three-day cyclone in the tropics.

Book early

For tourist hot spots, try to reserve flights and accommodation at least six months prior to departure. Trips closer to home – two months in advance is suitable.

Don’t lose the maiden name (just yet)

If you’ve decided to change your name after marriage, make sure to use your maiden name when booking flights as you won’t actually be able to use your partner’s name until after the wedding. Make sure to book with the same name as what’s on your passport or ID book.

Rather be safe than sorry

Opt for travel insurance to give you both peace of mind. Compare rates and policies online, with sites like Insure My Trip, or go to your nearest Travel Agent to find out more.

Print out proof; keep it charged

Keep online printouts with you – email confirmations, a copy of your ID or passport and any necessary documents you might need. Don’t forget your camera charger (and an electricity converter if necessary). Have fun!

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In Advice

Why this Valentine’s Day is something to make a big deal out of

January 27, 2021 No Comments

There are plenty of us who roll our eyes at the very idea of Valentine’s Day. The day of love has become so commercialised that many couples have opted out, and then there’s the argument that “every day should be Valentine’s Day”.

But this year it’s all different. It’s been a difficult time for most since the onset of COVID-19. Many life partners have been tragically lost, and we’ve all generally had very little quality time with our significant others as we grapple with all the extra demands of living in a global pandemic.

So if ever there was a Valentine’s Day to celebrate the love of your life, this is it! And here are some great ideas about how to make it special:

Be day tourists in your city

This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday, making it easy for couples to spend the entire day together. You could use the time to do some safe sight-seeing in your own city. For those in Johannesburg, you could explore the historical sites before grabbing a bite to eat or something to drink in Maboneng.

If Cape Town is your home, what about a day out enjoying some of a long list of pocket-friendly experiences compiled by Cape Town Tourism. All the details on how to enjoy Cape Town for under just R150 per person can be found here. Or if you’re into art and culture, pop into Zeitz MOCAA for some of the best art on the continent all in one place.

Make this year the year of the splurge

If you’re seeking a really special Valentine’s Day break, then definitely consider booking into one of the world’s top new hotels – Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge. Suspended over the Sabi River in the heart of the Kruger National Park, this hotel assures an exceptionally romantic getaway. Visitors enjoy a unique vantage point from above the river, soaking up unparalleled views of the Kruger National Park and the majestic Sabi River below.

Do something different from the comfort of home

Did you know that you can still enjoy a local jazz club’s cocktail hour, experience a cooking experience in France, take part in a dance class in Brazil, get involved in a fun scavenger hunt hosted by someone in the USA, or get your zen on in a meditation session with a Japanese monk – all from the safety of home? With Airbnb’s Online Experiences, you can explore the world from your sitting room, while also helping these Experience hosts continue to earn a living.

Enjoy a stay-cation

If you don’t want to venture too far from home, but you are keen to get away, then take a look at what hot deals your local hotels are offering for Valentine’s Day. Many hotels create special Valentine’s Day packages, like Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront in Cape Town, for example. Their special Valentine’s staycation includes a romantic picnic-style dinner in your room. You can enjoy it while watching the sunset over the ocean from your balcony – the perfect backdrop to a romantic getaway. If you’re not Cape Town-based, just get on to Google and check out the romantic escapes on offer in your own city.

Have a dance party at home

If spending money isn’t on your agenda this Valentine’s Day, what about organising a fun, old-fashioned dance party at home? Download YouTube music on to a device of your choosing and blast some of your favourite songs – or any songs significant to your relationship. Then take your significant other for a whirl around your living room dance floor! Love is free, after all.

Picture/s: Supplied

In Advice

All together now: The familymoon trend

January 26, 2021 No Comments

Honeymoons. That period of bliss after all the wedding chaos, when you and your new partner get to relax and enjoy each other’s company in an exotic location before settling into your new life together. But what if that new life includes kids?

Perhaps you had children before tying the knot. Maybe this is your second marriage and one or both of you have kids. Rather than go on a honeymoon alone, some couples with kids are opting to go on familymoons instead.

A familymoon is a family holiday straight after the wedding. Taking your kids on your honeymoon might seem a bit unusual, but it could be a wonderful experience for the entire family.

Remember, planning your wedding can also be stressful for your kids. Taking a familymoon will let them have some fun after all the excitement. Familymoons are also great bonding opportunities, something that is vital when integrating a family. You will also enjoy your vacation more, knowing that those you love most are enjoying themselves with you.

Some agents have capitalised on the trend and are offering many great packages that your whole family could enjoy. From beach getaways and cruises to city tours and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of options for a familymoon. Booking a family-friendly holiday means that there will definitely be activities the kids can do by themselves while you and your partner enjoy some alone time.

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In Advice

Better late than never: The latermoon trend

January 13, 2021 No Comments

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed life as we know it. Plans that were made and trips that were booked were scrapped as the virus took over the world.

For those that postponed or cancelled their honeymoons in light of the pandemic, they miss out on that special time to grow closer and welcome the first few days of wedded bliss in a beautiful setting away from the stresses of everyday life.

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Luckily, your honeymoon is not lost forever. Many couples are now planning their ‘latermoon’, a holiday taken by newlyweds weeks or even months after their wedding,

With travel restrictions across the world, the latermoon is your best option. It can also be a blessing in disguise, as it gives you more time to save up spending money and gives you an opportunity to research your destination better.

In time, your honeymoon maybe even more special because you waited for it for so long. When you are finally able to travel to your dream destination, it will feel even more sweet knowing you and your loved one made it through a global pandemic.

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In Advice

Should you hire a travel agent to plan your honeymoon?

January 11, 2021 No Comments

After the stress of wedding planning, a honeymoon away with your loved one sounds like the perfect remedy. Unfortunately, that requires even more planning.

Travel agents are experts in their field and can turn a getaway into a trip of a lifetime. If you’re still on the fence of deciding on doing it yourself or relinquishing control, here are some pros and cons to help you make your decision:

The Pros:

It’s literally their job to create perfect trips

Travel agents are seasoned professionals at planning trips, and consider every aspect. If you’re a newbie to travelling, there may be some things you don’t even think about that could have a huge impact on your getaway.

They also tend to know a lot more about certain destinations and properties and can recommend restaurants, clubs and sightseeing spots off the beaten track.

They can get deals and discounts not available to the public:

With all their connections in the industry, travel agents are more likely to get discounted rates for hotel stays and experiences. It can sometimes even be slightly more affordable to book a package through them than to book it all separately by yourself.

It saves you time, effort and stress:

Outsourcing a responsibility allows you to focus your energy on something else, which is especially helpful for couples planning a wedding at the same time. All you need to do is pack your bags and hop on your flight to your dream destination.

The cons:

It’s another expense

While travel agents are typically not costly, planning a wedding is already expensive enough and adding another vendor to your list might not be in your budget. If you don’t have the wiggle room or would rather save your money to use on your honeymoon itself, then hiring a travel agent may not be the best idea.

It can be hard to find the right one:

Like with anything in life, you want the right person to handle your business. Travel agents are not all made equal, and some may push you into more costly experiences or not tailor your trip to your personality but instead on what they enjoy.

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