Relaxed 9-Day France Road Trip Starting from Caen to Paris

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Experience France like never before on this 9-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Ifs, Caen, Cormelles-le-Royal, Colombelles, Ouistreham, Luc-sur-Mer, Courseulles-sur-Mer, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Paris, Lisieux, and Ranville. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in France.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in France at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Ifs, Caen, Cormelles-le-Royal, Colombelles, Ouistreham, Luc-sur-Mer, Courseulles-sur-Mer, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, Paris, Lisieux, and Ranville. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Caen, and 4 nights in Paris. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in France.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in France. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Caen, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across France and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across France 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 France.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in France. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Eiffel Tower. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Louvre Museum.

Traveling leisurely through France means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Arc De Triomphe. 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 France'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 France.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in France. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through France'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 France.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through France. 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 France. 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 France and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in France today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Ifs, and Caen - arrival day

  • Caen - Arrival day
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through France starts when you reach the incredible city of Caen, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Caen and begin your adventure in France.

Find your way to your hotel in Caen. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in France. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 Caen.

Dine in style at La Ficelle, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, La Galettoire boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bar de la Fac. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Caen.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Caen. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kokomo is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Delirium Café, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is La Rhumba. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in France. Enjoy your first taste of Caen as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Caen, and Cormelles-le-Royal

  • Caen
  • Cormelles-le-Royal
  • More

Drive 8 km, 56 min

  • Parc Michel d'Ornano
  • Caen Castle
  • More

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Caen and visit amazing attractions in Cormelles-le-Royal, and Caen destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Caen. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Parc Michel D'ornano. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,384 reviews.

Next up is The Abbey Of Sainte-trinité. This place of worship has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,583 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is St Peter's Catholic Church. This church has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 966 reviews.

Caen Castle is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,915 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cormelles-le-Royal. This car ride takes around 10 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Parc Claude-decaen. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 460 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Caen 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Yaki Sushi, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Trattoria is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at SASÉSU. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Caen tonight.

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 France.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Vertigo after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Les Déserteurs for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Vous Êtes Ici is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Caen, Mont Myrrha, Colombelles, Ouistreham, Luc-sur-Mer, and Courseulles-sur-Mer

  • Caen
  • Colombelles
  • Ouistreham
  • Luc-sur-Mer
  • Courseulles-sur-Mer
  • More

Drive 134 km, 2 hours 25 min

  • Château de Falaise
  • Le Grand Bunker - Museum of the Atlantic Wall
  • Maison de la Baleine
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in France continues on day 3, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of France and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Mont Myrrha and beyond. With 1 night left in Caen, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the hamlet.

After soaking in Caen’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Mont Myrrha. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Mont Myrrha, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Château De Falaise, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,678 reviews.

After soaking in Mont Myrrha’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Colombelles. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 30 min. When you arrive in Colombelles, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Château De Beauregard one of your first sightseeing stops in Colombelles. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,107 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Ouistreham’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Colombelles behind. This drive usually takes around 13 min. Ouistreham welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is The "big Bunker". This defence work is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,021 reviews.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Caen.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Caen has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to book a table at Le Refuge, a popular restaurant in Caen. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Caen at L'R de rien, 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 PAUL & LÉON. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Caen tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Caen.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Le Boudoir, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, La Garsouille offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Caen as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through France with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in France!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Caen, Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, and Paris

  • Paris
  • Caen
  • Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe
  • More

Drive 241 km, 3 hours 23 min

  • L'Abbaye-aux-Hommes
  • Colline aux Oiseaux
  • Mémorial de Caen
  • Vallée des Jardins
  • More

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in France is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Caen and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe and the city of Paris. You’ll stay in Paris for 4 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to L'abbaye-aux-hommes. This place of worship is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,380 visitors.

Mémorial De Caen is another popular attraction you could visit today. This peace museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 15,288 visitors. Mémorial De Caen attracts up to 349,455 visitors every year.

Vallée Des Jardins is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 719 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Caen to Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe may take around 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Saint-Germain-la-Blanche-Herbe, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Colline Aux Oiseaux your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this green space an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,950 reviews.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Paris. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Mumi, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Beaurepaire Ambassade du Béarn - Restaurant Paris Terrasse, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at L'Imprévu Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Paris and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café De Paris V, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Dirty Dick provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Little Red Door offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Paris

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 32 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Champ de Mars
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Sacré-Cœur
  • La Villette
  • More

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Paris, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in France are extraordinary.

Make Champ De Mars one of your first sightseeing stops in Paris. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 172,488 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Eiffel Tower is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This lattice tower is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 322,389 reviews. Up to 6,207,303 travelers visit this site every year to make their time in Paris special.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Arc De Triomphe. This triumphal arch has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 193,235 visitors. Up to 2,743,823 people travel to this site annually.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Sacré-cœur and find out why 11,000,000 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular church building is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 118,527 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is La Villette. This commune of france enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 56,497 local and international travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in France. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Paris itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Le Marais Restaurant Paris, a highly-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're eager to try something different, consider Le Sens Unique, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Caveau de l'isle. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Paris and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Prescription Cocktail Club after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Le Boucan, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Mamie Paris also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in France!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Paris

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 8 km, 1 hour 4 min

  • Palais Garnier
  • place de la Concorde
  • Tuileries Garden
  • Musée d'Orsay
  • Louvre Museum
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through France means 24 hours of making the best memories in Paris. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Paris. 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 Paris!

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Palais Garnier. Previous visitors have rated this opera house an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 34,053 reviews.

Place De La Concorde is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 54,229 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Tuileries Garden. This garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 92,172 reviews.

Musée D'orsay is another outstanding experience in Paris. Around 71,115 travelers have rated this art museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 3,651,616 visitors annually.

If you long for more, Louvre Museum is not far away. This art museum is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 260,788 reviews.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Paris by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Paris has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Harp Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Paris. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Bistro des Augustins, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Petit Châtelet. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Paris this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Paris and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Sherry Butt, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Highlander offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Le Sully provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in France!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Paris

  • Paris
  • More

Drive 8 km, 57 min

  • Jardin des plantes
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • Panthéon
  • Notre-Dame de Paris
  • Sainte Chapelle
  • More

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across France, you’ll go deep into Paris, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Paris, and meet locals along the way!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Jardin Des Plantes. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 40,461 visitors.

When you’re finished at Jardin Des Plantes, head to Jardin Du Luxembourg. This one-of-a-kind urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 94,043 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Panthéon. This mausoleum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 43,649 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Notre-dame De Paris. This catholic cathedral is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,788 visitors. Around 12,000,000 travelers visit Notre-dame De Paris every year.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Sainte Chapelle. This famous chapel is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 32,376 travelers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across France by joining a traveler-approved tour in Paris. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Paris that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in France more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Paris to find the best options for you!

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 Paris, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant Guy Savoy, an iconic dining spot in Paris. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Saint James Paris, a popular restaurant in Paris. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Solera Paris : Bar à Cocktail, a hidden gem nestled in Paris. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 France.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Café Klein Holland offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Tiger is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The 46 Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across France.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Paris, Zoobservatoires, Lisieux, Ranville, and Caen

  • Caen
  • Lisieux
  • Ranville
  • More

Drive 264 km, 3 hours 55 min

  • Memorial Pegasus
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of France will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in France, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Paris, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Zoobservatoires. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Parc Zoologique De Lisieux. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 10,670 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lisieux. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Kick off the day at Basilica Of Saint Therese Of Lisieux, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,910 reviews.

After soaking in Lisieux’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ranville. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 53 min. When you arrive in Ranville, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Memorial Pegasus your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,240 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in France at Caen. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Caen 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 Ju'ste Chez Moi, a highly-rated dining destination in Caen. If you're eager to try something different, consider Stéphane Carbone Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Beef & Cow. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Caen this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Caen and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Caen!

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Day 9

Day 9 – Caen - departure day

  • Caen - Departure day
  • More
  • Caen Botanical Garden
  • More

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in France 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 Caen.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Caen is the remarkable Caen Botanical Garden. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,184 visitors.

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 Caen or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Caen and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in France is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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