Curated by local experts using genuine insights to ensure your group travel experience is stress-free — Updated 2026

Group Travel in Galway — Best Neighbourhoods

Explore Galway’s vibrant neighborhoods perfect for group adventures and nightlife.

A picturesque view of Galway's iconic skyline at dusk
At a Glance
Country Ireland
City Galway
Day / Night 18° / 13°
Local Time 7:13
July — Now Peak season
Best Months May · Apr

Discover the best neighborhoods in Galway for group stays, offering social activities, vibrant nightlife, and accommodations with group booking capabilities. From hotels with group discounts to dining options for large parties, this guide covers it all to ensure a seamless Galway adventure.

Top Galway Areas for Group Travel

Best overall
8.9
The Art House 5 Galway, Bohermore

The Art House 5 Galway, Bohermore

The Art House 5 offers a unique, vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Bohermore, ideal for art-loving groups. Large common areas and group room options make it easy to stay together.

Top pick
8.5
Cill Ard Bohermore

Cill Ard Bohermore

Cill Ard offers cozy, budget-friendly accommodations ideal for groups. Located in bustling Bohermore, enjoy easy access to local attractions without breaking the bank.

Top pick
8.1
The Westwood Summer Accommodation

The Westwood Summer Accommodation

Ideal for larger groups, The Westwood offers spacious accommodations with a vibrant campus atmosphere. Located at Upper Newcastle, it's a great spot for social summer stays.

Not sure which area fits your group?

Check the top neighborhoods for group logistics.

Best choice: Bohermore

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Nightlife atmosphere.

Best choice: Upper Newcastle

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Cultural visits atmosphere.

Best choice: Knocknacarra

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Relaxation atmosphere.

Best choice: Galway City West

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Variety seekers atmosphere.

Galway Hotels for Group Travel

Discover the top hotel picks perfect for groups in Galway, offering space, amenities, and group-friendly features.

Cill Ard Bohermore
Top pick
8.5 Excellent
24 reviews

Cill Ard Bohermore

Bohermore • Budget-Friendly • Cozy

Cill Ard offers cozy, budget-friendly accommodations ideal for groups. Located in bustling Bohermore, enjoy easy access to local attractions without breaking the bank.

  • Affordable room rates
  • Central location
  • Friendly atmosphere
The Westwood Summer Accommodation
Top pick
8.1 Very Good
2399 reviews

The Westwood Summer Accommodation

Upper Newcastle • Spacious • Campus Vibe

Ideal for larger groups, The Westwood offers spacious accommodations with a vibrant campus atmosphere. Located at Upper Newcastle, it's a great spot for social summer stays.

  • Modern dorm-style rooms
  • Large communal areas
  • Campus atmosphere
Clybaun Hotel
Smart choice
8.5 Excellent
3113 reviews

Clybaun Hotel

Knocknacarra • Pool • Spa

Located in Knocknacarra, Clybaun Hotel offers a relaxing stay with access to a full-service spa and pool, great for unwinding groups seeking leisure and comfort.

  • Heated indoor pool
  • Full-service spa
  • Group relaxation packages
Seashore Lodge Guesthouse
Central location
8.5 Excellent
582 reviews

Seashore Lodge Guesthouse

Knocknacarra • Beach Views • Shared Terrace

Seashore Lodge Guesthouse, set by the sea in Knocknacarra, is perfect for groups wanting scenic views and shared outdoor spaces, just steps away from the beach.

  • Shared terrace
  • Stunning sea views
  • Coastal hiking access
Maldron Hotel Sandy Road Galway
Hidden gem
8.3 Very Good
3235 reviews

Maldron Hotel Sandy Road Galway

Galway City West • Modern • Dining

Maldron Hotel on Sandy Road offers modern comfort perfect for groups, featuring spacious rooms and on-site dining, just a short distance from Galway's city center.

  • Contemporary rooms
  • On-site restaurant
  • City center proximity
Clayton Hotel Galway
Boutique stay
8 Very Good
3204 reviews

Clayton Hotel Galway

Galway City West • Gym • Conference

Clayton Hotel provides a perfect base for business or leisure with amenities designed for groups, including a fitness center and modern conference facilities.

  • Fully equipped gym
  • Modern conference rooms
  • Business amenities

How we choose Galway group options

Our picks are based on real guest reviews, hotel ratings, and expert recommendations tailored to group needs.

Best Areas in Galway for Group Travel

Discover Galway's prime neighborhoods for group adventures, offering rich culture, stunning landscapes, and perfect logistics for large parties.

Bohermore

Bohermore is the heart of Galway's bustling nightlife, offering groups easy access to an array of lively pubs and clubs. Located conveniently near the city center, it’s the perfect place for groups looking to enjoy Galway’s electric social scene. Numerous hotels in Bohermore are well-equipped for large parties, with generous group booking options, spacious rooms, and flexible cancellation policies. For dining, several restaurants in the area can accommodate large group reservations, ensuring everyone can savor local Irish cuisine together.

The neighborhood's proximity to Galway’s central attractions like Eyre Square and the Latin Quarter makes it a logistical dream for groups eager to explore without hassle. Bohermore also offers excellent public transport links, making it easy to coordinate outings to nearby cultural spots or scenic excursions. With its vibrant atmosphere and practical accommodations, Bohermore stands out as a dynamic choice for group travel in Galway.

Best for Nightlife
Walking route 8 stops · Packed itinerary
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 89/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.7 · 68 reviews
Bohermore Cemetery's Victorian Origins Opened in 1880, it's a testament to Victorian-era design.
Final Resting Place of Nora Barnacle James Joyce's muse, Nora Barnacle, is buried here.
Bohermore's Hidden Art Gallery Local artists frequently hold impromptu exhibits here.
Bohermore

Self-guided walking tour Bohermore — Group Travel (Galway, Ireland)

~1.9 km · ~26 min · 8 stops
≈2,400 steps ≈93 kcal 4 h 56 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Galway Cathedral
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(6.4k)
Church
Iconic cathedral with stunning architecture
⏱ ~45 min ·
1
Lally Tours
4.9★★★★★★★★★★(2.9k)
📍 Landmark
Explore tours starting point in Galway
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 09:00-18:00
2
Eyre Square
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(15.5k)
Square
Bustling central park with cafes
🏛 1710 · ⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 09:00-18:00
3
Lynch's Castle
3.8★★★★★★★★★★(158)
🏰 Castle
Historic medieval Lynch's Castle in city center
⏱ ~20 min ·
4
Hall of the Red Earl
4.3★★★★★★★★★★(110)
🗿 Monument
Archaeological site of a medieval hall
⏱ ~25 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
5
The Latin Quarter
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(1.7k)
🎡 Attraction
Historic streets with vibrant ambience
⏱ ~40 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
6
Spanish Arch
4.2★★★★★★★★★★(6.5k)
🗿 Monument
16th-century limestone arch on the river
⏱ ~20 min ·
7
Galway City Museum
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(2.7k)
🏛️ Museum
Local history and art exhibits
⏱ ~60 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
8

Upper Newcastle

Upper Newcastle presents a cultural haven for groups wanting to immerse themselves in the authentic Irish experience. This area is known for its proximity to the University College Galway, bringing a youthful and vibrant energy to the vicinity. Groups staying here can indulge in the unique blend of modern and traditional Irish culture, with easy access to both contemporary attractions and historical landmarks.

Hotels in Upper Newcastle cater exceptionally well to groups, offering large, modern suites that can be combined or connected. The region's dining scene is equally accommodating, with numerous eateries providing group reservations and private dining options. Making Upper Newcastle even more appealing for group travelers is its reliable public transport network, simplifying group logistics with hassle-free commutes to Galway's famous sights like the Claddagh and Salthill Promenade. Upper Newcastle is where culture meets convenience, ideal for group travel.

Best for Cultural visits
Walking route 8 stops · Packed itinerary
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 89/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 1
Avg guest rating ★ 8.1 · 2.4k reviews
NUI Galway's Founding in 1845 Established as Queen's College, a key educational hub.
Terryland Castle's Medieval Ruins The remnants of Terryland Castle date back to the 12th century.
Secret Walking Trails by the River Corrib Locals enjoy these serene paths for a quiet retreat.
Upper Newcastle

Self-guided walking tour Upper Newcastle — Group Travel (Galway, Ireland)

~2.0 km · ~27 min · 8 stops
≈2,600 steps ≈100 kcal 4 h 57 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Galway Cathedral
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(6.4k)
Church
Iconic cathedral with stunning architecture
⏱ ~45 min ·
1
Nora Barnacle's House
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(57)
🎡 Attraction
Historic home of writer Nora Barnacle
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 24/7
2
Lynch's Castle
3.8★★★★★★★★★★(158)
🏰 Castle
Historic medieval Lynch's Castle in city center
⏱ ~20 min ·
3
Eyre Square
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(15.5k)
Square
Bustling central park with cafes
🏛 1710 · ⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 09:00-18:00
4
Hall of the Red Earl
4.3★★★★★★★★★★(110)
🗿 Monument
Archaeological site of a medieval hall
⏱ ~25 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
5
The Latin Quarter
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(1.7k)
🎡 Attraction
Historic streets with vibrant ambience
⏱ ~40 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
6
Spanish Arch
4.2★★★★★★★★★★(6.5k)
🗿 Monument
16th-century limestone arch on the river
⏱ ~20 min ·
7
Galway City Museum
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(2.7k)
🏛️ Museum
Local history and art exhibits
⏱ ~60 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
8

Knocknacarra

Knocknacarra is where groups in Galway discover serenity and stunning coastal views. This residential area offers a peaceful retreat from bustling city life, making it ideal for groups looking to relax and recharge. Nestled along the gorgeous coastline, Knocknacarra provides ample opportunities for picturesque beach walks and nature-driven exploration.

The neighborhood's spacious accommodations range from large guesthouses to hotels with extensive group discount policies, ensuring comfort and affordability. For dining, the area features a variety of restaurants that easily handle group reservations, often with private rooms available. While Knocknacarra is serene, it remains well-connected to Galway city center through efficient public transport, making excursions to nearby attractions simple and stress-free. Groups can enjoy a balanced itinerary of outdoor and city experiences in this tranquil yet accessible locale.

Best for Relaxation
Walking route 6 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 89/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.5 · 3.7k reviews
Knocknacarra Means 'Hill of the Sickle' Derived from the Gaelic Cnoc na Ceathrún.
Prehistoric Tomb at Knocknacarra An ancient tomb shows the area's rich prehistoric past.
Seapoint Promenade's Best Sunset Views Catch stunning sunsets at Seapoint every evening.
Knocknacarra

Self-guided walking tour Knocknacarra — Group Travel (Galway, Ireland)

~3.6 km · ~49 min · 6 stops
≈4,700 steps ≈180 kcal 4 h 4 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Blackrock Beach
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(2.2k)
📍 Landmark
Scenic beach with promenade views
⏱ ~30 min ·
1
Salthill Prom
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(768)
🌳 Park
Salthill Prom, a scenic coastal walk for all ages
⏱ ~60 min
2
Circle of Life Commemorative Garden
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(106)
🌷 Garden
Peaceful spot for reflection and rest
⏱ ~20 min · 🕐 24/7
3
Spanish Arch
4.2★★★★★★★★★★(6.5k)
🗿 Monument
16th-century limestone arch on the river
⏱ ~20 min ·
4
The Latin Quarter
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(1.7k)
🎡 Attraction
Historic streets with vibrant ambience
⏱ ~40 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
5
Hall of the Red Earl
4.3★★★★★★★★★★(110)
🗿 Monument
Archaeological site of a medieval hall
⏱ ~25 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
6

Galway City West

Galway City West is a diverse area brimming with both history and vibrant nightlife, making it an exhilarating spot for group travel. This area provides a well-rounded experience with its mix of historical sites such as Kylemore Abbey and cultural gems amidst a lively atmosphere. Its location near essential transport links simplifies organizing group excursions, be it to the town center or beyond.

Hotels here are well-versed in catering to large parties with ample group room options and amenities that provide comfort and convenience. Likewise, dining establishments around Galway City West take pride in offering private dining options, ensuring groups can enjoy meals in exclusivity. For those interested in nightlife, this area is unrivaled with numerous venues ready to host larger parties. The region’s variety and connectivity make it a perfect home base for groups looking to sample all facets of Galway.

Best for Variety seekers
Walking route 7 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 89/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.2 · 6.4k reviews
Galway Cathedral Built in 1965 This modern cathedral was completed just 58 years ago.
Home of Poet Richard Murphy Richard Murphy spent significant time crafting poems here.
Best Pub for Traditional Irish Music Monroe's Tavern offers live music almost every night.
Galway City West

Self-guided walking tour Galway City West — Group Travel (Galway, Ireland)

~4.7 km · ~1 h 4 min · 7 stops
≈6,100 steps ≈234 kcal 5 h 39 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Salthill Prom
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(768)
🌳 Park
Salthill Prom, a scenic coastal walk for all ages
⏱ ~60 min
1
Circle of Life Commemorative Garden
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(106)
🌷 Garden
Peaceful spot for reflection and rest
⏱ ~20 min · 🕐 24/7
2
Spanish Arch
4.2★★★★★★★★★★(6.5k)
🗿 Monument
16th-century limestone arch on the river
⏱ ~20 min ·
3
Galway City Museum
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(2.7k)
🏛️ Museum
Local history and art exhibits
⏱ ~60 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
4
The Latin Quarter
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(1.7k)
🎡 Attraction
Historic streets with vibrant ambience
⏱ ~40 min · 🕐 Mo-Th 17:30-22:00; Fr-Sa 17:30-23:00; Su 16:00-22:00
5
Eyre Square
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(15.5k)
Square
Bustling central park with cafes
🏛 1710 · ⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 09:00-18:00
6
Galway Cathedral
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(6.4k)
Church
Iconic cathedral with stunning architecture
⏱ ~45 min ·
7

Best time to visit Galway (Ireland)

Now (July) avg: 15°C, wetter month, full season — expect crowds. Best months to walk: May & Apr.

Live Temp
~Day / Night Temp 18°C / 13°C
Sunrise / Sunset 5:25 / 21:59
Local time 7:13
Sea Temp 18°C
Best Months May & Apr
J Jan F Feb M Mar A Apr best month M May best month J Jun J Jul this month A Aug S Sep O Oct N Nov D Dec
Check Galway hotels
Temperature Average night-low temperature, month by month. Zero line marks freezing point.
Crowds How busy it gets — traveller interest by month.
Sea temperature Sea warmth for swimming, by month.
Rainfall Rainy days to expect each month.
Sunshine Hours of sun per day, by month.
Galway guides →

Galway Hotels for Group Travel

Discover the top hotel picks perfect for groups in Galway, offering space, amenities, and group-friendly features.
The Art House 5 Galway, Bohermore
Best overall
8.9 Excellent
44 reviews

The Art House 5 Galway, Bohermore

The Art House 5 offers a unique, vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Bohermore, ideal for art-loving groups. Large common areas and group room options make it easy to stay together.

Ideal for: Creative groups seeking inspiration
Cill Ard Bohermore
Top pick
8.5 Excellent
24 reviews

Cill Ard Bohermore

Cill Ard offers cozy, budget-friendly accommodations ideal for groups. Located in bustling Bohermore, enjoy easy access to local attractions without breaking the bank.

Ideal for: Budget-savvy explorers
The Westwood Summer Accommodation
Top pick
8.1 Very Good
2399 reviews

The Westwood Summer Accommodation

Ideal for larger groups, The Westwood offers spacious accommodations with a vibrant campus atmosphere. Located at Upper Newcastle, it's a great spot for social summer stays.

Ideal for: Students and large groups
Clybaun Hotel
Smart choice
8.5 Excellent
3113 reviews

Clybaun Hotel

Located in Knocknacarra, Clybaun Hotel offers a relaxing stay with access to a full-service spa and pool, great for unwinding groups seeking leisure and comfort.

Ideal for: Leisure-seeking groups
Seashore Lodge Guesthouse
Central location
8.5 Excellent
582 reviews

Seashore Lodge Guesthouse

Seashore Lodge Guesthouse, set by the sea in Knocknacarra, is perfect for groups wanting scenic views and shared outdoor spaces, just steps away from the beach.

Ideal for: Nature-loving groups
Maldron Hotel Sandy Road Galway
Hidden gem
8.3 Very Good
3235 reviews

Maldron Hotel Sandy Road Galway

Maldron Hotel on Sandy Road offers modern comfort perfect for groups, featuring spacious rooms and on-site dining, just a short distance from Galway's city center.

Ideal for: Groups wanting city access
Clayton Hotel Galway
Boutique stay
8 Very Good
3204 reviews

Clayton Hotel Galway

Clayton Hotel provides a perfect base for business or leisure with amenities designed for groups, including a fitness center and modern conference facilities.

Ideal for: Business groups & conferences

Secure Your Booking Swiftly

Group spaces fill quickly during peak seasons. Book early to ensure your first choice.

Galway Neighborhoods Comparison for Groups

Easily compare Galway neighborhoods for group travel.
Cill Ard Bohermore
Top pick
8.5 Excellent
24 reviews

Cill Ard Bohermore

Bohermore • Budget-Friendly • Cozy
Excellent for group budget stays
Budget Friendly
Great savings
The Westwood Summer Accommodation
Top pick
8.1 Very Good
2399 reviews

The Westwood Summer Accommodation

Upper Newcastle • Spacious • Campus Vibe
Best summer spaces for students
Groups
Ideal for study groups

Traditional Local Food Galway (Ireland)

Local Flavours of Galway — Explore recipes, history, our unique food flavour DNA graph and more.

Bread Vegetarian

Barmbrack

Báirín Breac
BAH-reen BRAK

A traditional Irish fruit bread, often served at Halloween.

Breakfast Meat

Black Pudding

Putóg dhubh
POO-tog DHUV

A rich blood sausage with oats and spices, typical in Irish breakfasts.

Main course Vegetarian

Boxty Pancake

Bacstaí
BAHK-stee

A type of potato pancake with a smooth, creamy texture.

Bread Vegetarian

Brown Bread

Arán Donn
AR-awn DON

Traditional Irish bread made with wholemeal flour and buttermilk.

Main course Meat

Coddle

Cadharlach
CAD-her-lack

Classic Dublin dish of sausages, bacon, and potatoes.

Main course Vegetarian

Colcannon

Cál ceannann
KAHL KEE-un-un

Mashed potatoes mixed with kale or cabbage.

🐟
Starter Fish & Seafood

Galway Oysters

Oisrí na Gaillimhe
ISH-ree na GAL-ih-may

Fresh, locally sourced oysters from Galway Bay.

Main course Meat

Irish Stew

Stobhach Gaelach
STO-ah ga-LAA

Hearty stew with lamb, potatoes, and vegetables.

Soup Fish & Seafood

Seafood Chowder

Brocann Feamainne
BROH-kahn Feh-WAHN-na

A creamy soup with a mix of local seafood, potatoes, and herbs.

Soda Bread
Bread Vegetarian

Soda Bread

Arán sóide
ah-RAHN SOH-da

Quick bread made with baking soda instead of yeast.

Activities & Experiences

Things to Do in Galway

Top-rated tours, day trips and local experiences — book in advance to secure your spot.

City & Country Data Ireland (Galway)

Key travel data for Galway — cost of living, safety, healthcare, local currency and essentials, curated by Triplandio.

Cost 💰 LOW
Safety 🔒 100
Health 🏥 81
Lifestyle 83
Infra 🏗️ 80
Rank 🎯 #8
Score 📊 68
Tourists ✈️ 11.0M/y
GDP/cap 💵 $131.6k
Life Exp ❤️ 83.0 yrs
Population 👥 5.5M
Currency 💱 EUR €
Language 🗣️ English
Payments 💳 Cashless
Emergency 🆘 999
Coffee $4.21
Beer 🍺 $6.75
Lunch 🍽️ $20.00
Groceries 🛒 $35.00/w
Taxi/km 🚕 $1.30
Transit 🚇 $1.90
Fuel $1.81/l
Internet 📡 $50.00/m
Salary 💵 $3,000/m

Galway stay tips for Group Travel

Private Dining in Galway's Westend

Enjoy a private dining experience at Massimo Bar in Galway’s Westend. The restaurant caters to large party reservations and offers a delightful menu of local favorites.

Tip: Private dining in Galway Westend

Efficient Group Transport Options

For seamless movement across Galway, hire a private bus service like Galway Mini Coaches. It’s cost-effective for large groups and offers personalized itineraries.

Tip: Private buses for group convenience

Salthill Promenade for Outdoor Fun

Salthill Promenade is perfect for group activities. Large groups can enjoy walking along the coast, and explore the nearby beaches and pubs for a relaxing day out.

Tip: Salthill for group outdoor fun

Galway for Group Travel: FAQ

When is the best time to visit Galway?

The best time to visit Galway is May and April — fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, less rain and more sunshine. Compare every month in the seasonal chart above.

Which hotels in Galway offer group rates?

In Galway, many hotels in the Latin Quarter offer group rates and have amenities like large common areas and flexible cancellation policies for groups.

What are the best areas in Galway for group activities?

Salthill is ideal for groups due to its beautiful promenade, easy beach access, and many casual dining spots that accommodate large parties comfortably.

Can we book a private dining room for our group in Galway?

Many restaurants in the Westend offer private dining rooms for groups. Always call ahead to book and discuss menu options for the group.

Are there hotels with connecting rooms in Galway?

Yes, accommodations in Eyre Square typically offer connecting rooms, perfect for maintaining group proximity while providing some privacy.

What are the top things to do for groups in Galway?

Consider a group tour of the Claddagh area, known for its historical significance and picturesque views, or enjoy a live music session at a local pub.

Your Group Travel Guide to Galway

Top for Group Travel
Discover the best neighborhoods in Galway for group stays, offering social activities, vibrant nightlife, and accommodations with group booking capabilities. From hotels with group discounts to dining options for large parties, this guide covers it all to ensure a seamless Galway adventure.
  • Handpicked hotels
  • Best Galway areas
  • All budgets covered
  • Updated 2026
EuropeIrelandGalwayGroup Travel in Galway — Best Neighbourhoods
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