Relaxed 9-Day Belgium Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Brussels to Antwerp
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 9-day road trip in Belgium with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Belgium at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Brussels, Laeken, Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek, Cambron-Casteau, Villers-la-Ville, Braine-l'Alleud, Antwerp, Muizen, Bruges, Ghent, Kortrijk, and Ypres. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Brussels and 3 nights in Antwerp. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Belgium.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Belgium. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Brussels, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Belgium and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Belgium with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Belgium.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Belgium. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Grand-place. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Atomium.
Traveling leisurely through Belgium means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Pairi Daiza. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Belgium's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Belgium.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Belgium. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Belgium's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Belgium.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Belgium. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Belgium. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Belgium and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Belgium today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Brussels - arrival day
- Brussels - Arrival day
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- Mont des Arts - Kunstberg
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Your relaxed road trip through Belgium starts when you reach the incredible city of Brussels, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Brussels and begin your adventure in Belgium.
Brussels is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Mont Des Arts - Kunstberg or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Brussels. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Belgium. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Brussels.
Savor the flavors at Harvest Restaurant Bruxelles, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, BrewDog Brussels beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider À La Mort Subite. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Brussels tonight.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Brussels and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Churchill's, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Station Bxl provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Delirium Café offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Belgium. Enjoy your first taste of Brussels as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2 – Brussels and Laeken
- Brussels
- Laeken - Laken
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Drive 15 km, 58 min
- Atomium
- Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
- Grand-Place
- Choco-Story Brussels
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On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Brussels and visit amazing attractions in Laeken and Brussels destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Brussels. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Brussels today. One of the most notable attractions included on the itinerary is Royal Gallery Of Saint Hubert. This history-steeped shopping mall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Grand-place and learn what makes this enchanting public square unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Choco-story Brussels.
After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laeken. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 26 min. When you arrive in Laeken, it's time to take a break from the road.
Atomium is a famous monument we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Brussels.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Brussels has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Begin your culinary exploration in Brussels by securing a reservation at Barge. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of organic cuisine. For another dining delight, visit La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne, celebrated for its delectable modern and classic menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Bozar Restaurant, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french and creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Brussels. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Des Amis, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Bar Du Canal offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Little Delirium. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Brussels!
Day 3 – Brussels
- Brussels
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Drive 8 km, 56 min
- Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
- Royal Palace of Brussels
- Autoworld
- Cinquantenaire Park
- Grand-Place
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Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Belgium means 24 hours of making the best memories in Brussels. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Brussels. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Brussels!
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Brussels allows for both. Start by heading to Royal Museums Of Fine Arts Of Belgium. This intriguing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Royal Palace Of Brussels, a standout palace, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Autoworld Brussels, a beloved museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally renowned Cinquantenaire.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Belgium. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Belgium and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Make sure to book a table at Villa Lorraine, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brussels at Le Marmiton, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Le Bistro - Porte de Hal. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Brussels tonight.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Brussels.
Continue your lively evening at La Reserve, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Manneken Pis Cafe is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Addict Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Belgium!
Day 4 – Brussels and Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek
- Brussels
- Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 24 min
- Bois de la Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos
- Josaphat Park
- St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
- Brussels Park
- Royal Belgian institute of Natural Sciences
- Grand-Place
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Belgium, you’ll explore the area around Brussels, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Brussels will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Belgium.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Brussels, featuring a charming, a beautiful, an enchanting, a visually striking, a heritage-rich, an inviting, and a majestic. Start at Bois De La Cambre - Ter Kamerenbos, a popular park in the city. Then, head to St Michael And St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking church.
There are many interesting places to see in Brussels and when you are ready for more, go to Brussels Park. This is one of the city’s most popular spots. After exploring the park, visit the captivating Museum For Natural Sciences Of Belgium.
After soaking in Brussels’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 24 min. When you arrive in Schaerbeek - Schaarbeek, it's time to take a break from the road.
Spend your afternoon discovering Josaphat Park, an up-and-coming park known for its idyllic features.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Brussels and your accommodation.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Pasta Divina, a top-rated dining spot in Brussels. If you're in the mood for something new, try Novotel Brussels off Grand Place, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Penta Hotel Brussels City Centre. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Brussels.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Brussels. The bars in Brussels make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Au Soleil. , a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Au Brasseur. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Belgium!
Day 5 – Brussels, Cambron-Casteau, Villers-la-Ville, Braine-l'Alleud, and Antwerp
- Brussels
- Cambron-Casteau
- Villers-la-Ville
- Braine-l'Alleud
- Antwerp
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Drive 207 km, 3 hours 13 min
- Pairi Daiza
- Villers Abbey
- Lion's Mound
- Grand-Place
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On day 5 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Belgium. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Belgium.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cambron-Casteau. This car ride takes around 1 hour 4 min.
Pairi Daiza is an impressive zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Set your GPS to Villers-la-Ville and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Villers-la-Ville beckons with new experiences!
Spend your afternoon discovering Villers Abbey, an underrated monastery known for its symbolic features.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Braine-l'Alleud. This car ride takes around 18 min.
Make your way to Lion's Mound, a locally appreciated monument that draws attention for its breathtaking features.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Antwerp. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Belgium, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Antwerp.
Experience a symphony of flavors at Zilte in Antwerp by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 3-star Michelin distinction, Zilte delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious creative cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at The Jane, acclaimed for its delectable creative specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Hertog Jan at Botanic, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for creative cuisine in the city.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Antwerp and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Keep the evening going at Hopper, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Dogma, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bar Basil, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Belgium!
Day 6 – Antwerp and Muizen
- Antwerp
- Muizen
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Drive 75 km, 1 hour 43 min
- Planckendael Zoo
- Antwerp Zoo
- Museum aan de Stroom
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Belgium continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Belgium and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Antwerp and beyond. With 2 nights left in Antwerp, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Antwerp, including a zoo and a museum. Start your day at Antwerp Zoo. This picture-perfect zoo is a popular place to see in Antwerp. Then, wander over to Museum Aan De Stroom. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Antwerp and set your GPS to Muizen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 39 min. Upon reaching Muizen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Begin your journey at Planckendael Zoo and explore the picturesque features.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Antwerp.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Belgium, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Antwerp.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Ciro's, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Het Pomphuis offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Ellis Antwerpen De Keyserlei is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Antwerp.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Antwerp.
Keep the evening going at Café Delux, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to 't Waagstuk, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Den Hopsack, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Belgium!
Day 7 – Antwerp, Bruges, and Ghent
- Antwerp
- Bruges
- Ghent
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Drive 217 km, 3 hours 28 min
- Belfry of Bruges
- Church of Our Lady
- Minnewater Park
- Gravensteen
- Museum aan de Stroom
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On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Antwerp and visit amazing attractions in Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Antwerp. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
When you’ve had your share of Antwerp, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bruges. Your travel time is around 1 hour 22 min.
Your self-guided tour starts at Belfry Of Bruges, a notable monument that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Church Of Our Lady and admire its noteworthy features. When you’re ready, continue to Minnewaterpark, an intriguing park beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Ghent’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bruges behind. This drive usually takes around 49 min. Ghent welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Your self-guided tour starts at Gravensteen, a captivating castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Antwerp and your accommodation.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Antwerp, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Satay, a top-rated dining destination in Antwerp. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Molly's Irish Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bourla. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Antwerp this evening.
After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Antwerp and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.
Continue your lively evening at Beerlovers Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bar Bakeliet is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Paters Vaetje ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Belgium!
Day 8 – Antwerp, Kortrijk, Ypres, and Brussels
- Antwerp
- Kortrijk
- Ypres
- Brussels
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Drive 257 km, 3 hours 30 min
- TEXTURE - Flax & River Lys Museum
- In Flanders Fields Museum
- Cloth Hall
- Menin Gate
- Museum aan de Stroom
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Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Belgium is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Brussels for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Belgium.
Set your GPS to Kortrijk and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kortrijk beckons with new experiences!
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Texture - Flax & River Lys Museum, an often recommended museum that draws visitors from near and far.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kortrijk, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ypres may take around 27 min. Upon your arrival in Ypres, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
In Flanders Fields Museum is a frequently visited museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour to Cloth Hall, Ypres, a historic museum that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Menin Gate, a breathtaking war memorial.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Belgium at Brussels. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Brussels has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a delicious meal at ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi, a top-rated dining destination in Brussels. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Le Plaza Brussels, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at BALLEKES (GRAND PLACE). With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Brussels this evening.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Belgium.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Belgium!
Day 9 – Brussels - departure day
- Brussels - Departure day
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- Grand-Place
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Belgium is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Brussels.
Maximize your last day in Belgium and go on a shopping spree in Brussels’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Belgium.
If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.
Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Brussels or just grab something light to keep you going.
Savor the flavors at Café Walvis, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery beckons with its unique menu offerings.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Brussels and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Belgium is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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