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GDL's Pros & Cons

Una oración para describir lo que encontrará aquí 

Nuestra oferta

  • Un listado GRATIS de un mes a cambio de un descuento o regalo que ofrecerás a nuestros suscriptores cuando te digan que vienen de RAMITA (Ejemplos: 10% de descuento, bebidas o aperitivos gratis, etc...)

  • Después del mes de prueba, puedes suscribirte a nuestro Programa Especial de Socios por solo $200 MXN al mes (a pagar $600 trimestrales).

  • O si prefiere no aparecer en RAMITA, solo háganoslo saber. Es así de simple.

01

Inadequate Enforcement of Codes and Regulations

At the opposite spectrum of the strong overpowering code enforcement in the U.S. and other G20 countries, the country of Mexico in general is lacking many building codes, especially in older constructions and neighborhoods. Regulations for fire alarms, monoxide carbon or accommodations for handicapped people are non-mandatory.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. It is important you hire a great Real Estate agent that has a great knowledge of the best areas and buildings to live, in order to avoid renting or buying a place with hidden problems. This is why TWIG created a one-of-a-king “Best of Guadalajara List” to help you hire the best bilinguals professionals in the city. We care about your safety and want to help you have a great experience moving here!

  2. Hire a great handyman and add your own fire alarm, monoxide carbon detector and other safety home features. (Also in the “Best of Guadalajara List”)

  3. Choose newer rather than older structures.

  4. Look beyond the beautiful façade.

Our Experience

We hired a bilingual RE Agent, trained in the US, to handle our properties rental and purchase. He made the whole process smooth. We hired a talented knowledgeable interior decorator / architect who you knew which crew to hire and how to improve the imperfect (Cost: $200 pesos per sq feet). We hired the best recommended handyman and installed our own fire and carbon monoxide alarms (Cost: less than $100 US).

02

HOA Meetings: Where Conflict and Passion Collide

​If you live in a condo, be prepared to be shocked by the way some handle their HOA meetings. You may either want to laugh or cry. You may witness lots of drama and see little being done to resolve any issue.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Make sure to choose a condo where the common areas are well maintained, and regulations are observed. A great Real Estate agent will help you make the right choice. (“Best of Guadalajara List”)

Our Experience

Unfortunately, we have one of those bad HOA Management Companies. We joined the other unhappy owners’ group to try to resolve issues ourselves. It’s a slow and frustrating process.

03

Utilities Outages

Compared with less developed parts of Mexico, you will experience good utilities in Guadalajara. However, even in this modern city, you will occasionally experience internet, power, water or gas outages. If it happens it will usually last for a few minutes or maybe a few hours. If there is a storm during the rainy season (June to September) then a power outage can last for hours. During the dry season, some neighborhoods might not have enough water in their reserve and may experience a water outage during a day or two.

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The people of Guadalajara disapprove of the drinking water service. Four out of every 10 pesos spent by SIAPA (Water Utility) are allocated to payroll and payment of private companies, reducing public investment to renew hydrosanitary networks, which are between 60 and 92 years old in areas such as Centro Historico, Barrio of Analco, Capilla de Jesús, La Loma, Moderna, Sagrada Familia, Belisario Domínguez, La Perla and Balcones de Oblatos, among others neighborhoods. A survey on the media's digital platforms revealed that six out of 10 participants complained about the poor quality of the water. 

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. It is important you hire a great Real Estate agent with great knowledge on which areas and buildings have no or little utility outages. (“Best of Guadalajara List”)

  2. Be prepared for possible outages and have good friends to stay with in case you have to experience a long utility outage.

  3. Choose newer rather than older structures.

Our Experience

We chose to live in a modern high-rise condo, and we rarely experience utilities issues, enjoy fast internet and a maintenance team on location to resolve most issues promptly.

04

Uneven Sidewalks or Cobblestones

It's like if Guadalajara’s beautiful trees reign over the pedestrians. Like most of Mexico, many sidewalks have unrepaired holes and if you do not pay attention, you can easily get hurt. In cities like Tlaquepaque or Ajijic, the charming cobblestone streets are the number 1 reason for many twisted ankles.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Pay attention when walking. Sorry, that's all we could come up with 😊

Our Experience

We pay attention and never experienced an injury.

05

You Need to Drink and Cook with Filtered Water

Throughout Mexico, it's essential to drink and cook with purified water to ensure your safety. However, Guadalajara is a notable exception when it comes to using public water for personal hygiene. Unlike many other Mexican cities, Guadalajara's public water is generally considered safe for bathing and brushing your teeth, making it a relatively comfortable and convenient destination for visitors and residents alike.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. It is extremely easy and inexpensive to have your Bonafont water delivered at home and to link a Servimatic Kendra water dispenser to your fridge water and ice dispensers ($2,500 pesos). There are other brands available.

  2. FYI, Lake Chapala is the main body that supplies water to the Guadalajara Metropolitan Area (with 61% of the total volume), followed by groundwater (23%), the Calderón dam (15%) and springs (1% remaining). 

  3. See the Guide to properly washing fruits and vegetables; avoid illnesses.

Our Experience

We do not see drinking filtered water an issue. Bonafont delivers water automatically to all apartment units in our building every Thursday (and other days if requested). Cost: $50 pesos per a mega 20L bottle, including tip and installation.

06

Speedbumps Can Damage Your Car and Your Back

​In Mexico, you'll encounter speed bumps, known as 'topes,' in virtually every corner of the country. While their purpose is to slow down traffic and prevent accidents, their design and implementation can be a different story. Unfortunately, these topes are often oversized, poorly marked, and difficult to spot, especially at night, which can make for a bumpy and potentially hazardous ride.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Pay great attention when driving and drive slow enough to notice and avoid them.

  2. Learn more tips from ALLSTATE

  3. Download and read TWIG's curated GUADALAJARA CAR OWNERS’ HANDBOOK.

Our Experience

We chose to use Uber and trusted private drivers. Our monthly Uber costs is about $200 US.

07

Be Prepared for Reckless Drivers

While Tapatios are known for their warm hospitality and courtesy, their driving habits can be a stark contrast. Behind the wheel, some individuals may exhibit assertive or reckless behavior, disregarding traffic signs and regulations. Additionally, some drivers may not possess a valid license or insurance, making road safety a concern.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Always be alert when driving. Use Uber, a trusted private driver or avoid driving at night.

  2. If owning a car get a great insurance. (“Best of Guadalajara List”)

  3. Learn more tips from ALLSTATE

  4. Download and read TWIG's curated GUADALAJARA CAR OWNERS’ HANDBOOK​.

Our Experience

We chose to use Uber and trusted private drivers. Our monthly Uber costs is about $200 US.

08

Some Areas May Have Unpleasant Aromas

Residents in certain areas may encounter occasional unpleasant odors emanating from their shower or sink drains, due to the aging infrastructure of the drainage systems, some of which date back centuries. These vintage systems, while functional, can sometimes release lingering scents, particularly after heavy usage or during periods of high water flow.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. It is important you hire a great Real Estate agent that has a great knowledge on which areas and buildings have the most modernized structures. (“Best of Guadalajara List”)

  2. Buy an inexpensive anti-odor drain stopper and let it on when not showering.

Our Experience

We chose to live in a modern high-rise condo, and we rarely experience unpleasant smelling issues. We do use anti-odor drain stoppers, just in case 😊

09

Your Neighbors Might Be (super) Noisy

​Mexicans are known for their exuberant love of life, music, and celebration, which can sometimes extend into the night. Additionally, pet ownership is common, and while Mexicans adore their pets, training methods may vary, leading to occasional dog barking. Furthermore, Guadalajara is a rapidly growing city, with new constructions and developments emerging throughout the city. As a result, some neighborhoods or buildings may be more prone to noise, creating a lively and dynamic environment that's full of energy and life.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. It's crucial to partner with a knowledgeable and experienced Real Estate agent who can guide you to the most serene and tranquil neighborhoods. (“Best of Guadalajara List”)

  2. Get to know a neighborhood intimately before committing to rent or buy. Take your time, explore, and experience the area firsthand.

  3. When visiting Guadalajara, before booking, ask your hotel or Airbnb host about neighborhood noise, nearby churches and ongoing construction to ensure a peaceful stay in Guadalajara.

Our Experience

We opted for a more serene living experience in a secluded area of Zapopan, nestled in a canyon, strategically located away from noise-prone areas such as churches, bars, and clubs. As a result, we enjoy a significantly quieter environment compared to our friends. While this choice brings us peace of mind, it does come with a trade-off - our car rides to Guadalajara's city center take approximately 15 minutes longer than our friends', a small price to pay for the tranquility we value.

10

Mexico Experiences Occasional Earthquakes

Fortunately, Guadalajara is not typically the epicenter of these earthquakes, and we usually only feel the residual effects of significant quakes originating from other regions. By the time these tremors reach Guadalajara, they have often diminished in intensity, reducing the likelihood of severe damage or loss of life. While earthquakes are a natural occurrence in Mexico, Guadalajara has been largely spared from devastating consequences, with the exception of the notable 1932 Jalisco earthquake.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Stay prepared by learning earthquake safety protocols.

  2. Review the city's seismic history to ensure your readiness and safety.

Our Experience

We experienced a series of moderate earthquakes over the course of a week, in 2022, coinciding with the anniversary of the devastating Mexico City earthquake on September 19th. As high-rise residents, the experience was particularly noteworthy, yet fortunately, Guadalajara emerged unscathed, with no reported fatalities or significant damage. The city's resilience and preparedness were evident, and we were relieved to weather the tremors without major incident

11

Poor Air Quality Days

Occasionally, certain areas of Guadalajara may experience poor air quality, prompting local authorities to issue health advisories recommending residents stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities until the air quality improves.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Use the app “IQAir” to be notified of such poor air quality

  2. Invest in the best Air Purifier for those few days a year it is best to close your windows. Stay indoor. Use a mask outdoor. Close windows/doors, and drink plenty of fluid.

  3. Use NeilMed Sinus Rinse every other day!

  4. Know the most polluted neighborhoods to avoid, such as Las Pintas (El Salto), Loma Dorada (Tonalá), Tlaquepaque, Santa Fe (Tlajomulco) and Miravalle (Guadalajara).

  5. In case of fire: Report a fire by calling 911, 33 36 36 82 52 or 800 737 00 00 / Follow fires development on Twitter.

  6. Help push for the Brick Industry (one of the main source of pollution) to be modernized and regulated. 

Our Experience

We experienced only a month of bad air quality due to fires outside Guadalajara, in 2021, but several in 2023. That helped us learn how to cope with it when it occurs. Compared to the four months a year of heavy fires and terrible air pollution in California, USA, where we used to live, we still (almost) feel in heaven here.

12

Employee Unreliability

Mexicans are known for their exceptional politeness, which can sometimes lead to indirect communication. Even when they're unable to fulfill a request, they might respond with a courteous 'yes' or make promises they cannot keep. For individuals accustomed to straightforward and direct communication, this cultural difference can be perplexing and frustrating, leading to misunderstandings and unmet expectations.

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Prepare for: Lack of Punctuality, absenteeism, unpredictable work quality, inconsistent attendance, and failure to meet deadlines.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. TWIG's 'Best of Guadalajara List' is a game-changer, providing a carefully curated resource to help you hire the most skilled and reliable bilingual professionals in the city, making it easy to work with the best.

Our Experience

Having successfully hired professionals for various projects, with an 80% success rate over two years, we created TWIG's Relocation Program to share our expertise and help others avoid common pitfalls and achieve a seamless transition.

13

Last-Minute Notifications

Mexico is known for last-minute announcements, so it's not uncommon to find out about events, news, or new laws only after they've happened or with very little notice.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Discover TWIG, your go-to guide for Guadalajara. We've blended American organization with Latin flair to bring you the best of both worlds. Stay ahead with our Super Event Calendar, featuring 800+ events, for just $200 pesos a month. 

Our Experience

"We're the first to use TWIG every day, and we're thrilled to share it with you! Honestly, we created TWIG for our own needs initially, but we're delighted to extend its benefits to our community too 😊. We're happy to have you along for the ride!

14

Rainy Season Flooding

Guadalajara's rainy season (June 8 - September 30) brings benefits like cooler temperatures and greenery, but also a high risk of flooding. July is the wettest month, with an average of 24 rainy days. The city's soil struggles to absorb heavy rainfall, which can lead to flooding in as little as 15 minutes. Brief daily rain showers, usually around 5 pm or at night, can still pose a significant risk.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Try to avoid driving at those hours or learn how to drive in flooded areas (very important as you can damage your car).
  2. Know the areas and 6 tunnels at greatest risk of flooding in Guadalajara.
  3. Understand what your car is protected for by downloading and reading TWIG's curated GUADALAJARA CAR OWNERS’ HANDBOOK.
  4. Use Uber or a trusted private driver during raining hours as most drivers are experienced driving in a flooded street.

  5. It is important you hire a great Real Estate agent that has a great knowledge about which areas get flooded and should be avoided to live. (“Best of Guadalajara List”)

Our Experience

We chose to live in a high-rise condo in a non-flooding area. Because we got a real scare driving with a rental car in flooded Puerto Vallarta in 2020, we chose to use Uber and trusted private drivers. Our monthly Uber costs is about $200 US.

14

Flooding During Rainy Season

In Guadalajara, the rainy season lasts from June to September. It has marvelous benefits, such as keeping the temperature lower and making the city green and lush. It usually only rains about an hour or less a day, often around 5 pm or at night. However, most of Mexico’s soil cannot handle receiving a high amount of rain in such a short period of time and some areas of the city will flood in as fast as 15 minutes.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Try to avoid driving at those hours or learn how to drive in flooded areas (very important as you can damage your car).
  2. -Use Uber or a trusted private driver during raining hours as most drivers are experienced driving in a flooded street.

  3. It is important you hire a great Real Estate agent that has a great knowledge about which areas get flooded and should be avoided to live. (“Best of Guadalajara List”)

Our Experience

We chose to live in a high-rise condo in a non-flooding area. Because we got a real scare driving with a rental car in flooded Puerto Vallarta in 2020, we chose to use Uber and trusted private drivers. Our monthly Uber costs is about $200 US.

16

Safety

Despite rising global safety concerns, Guadalajara feels safer than many big cities. While cartels and organized crime are real issues in Mexico, the media often sensationalizes them, creating a skewed perception. In truth, encounters with cartels are rare, and with basic awareness and caution, you can minimize risks and enjoy a safe experience.

Is there a solution to this issue? Yes!

  1. Live and travel intelligently anywhere in the world, which means don’t leave any valuable items unattended, don't hold your phone in your hand or back pocket. Don’t leave apparent belongings in your parked car. Learn from wise tips.
  2. Download and keep with you at all times TWIG's curated EMERGENCY ESSENTIALS IN GUADALAJARA.
  3. Look like a local, not like a tourist. Don’t ask for directions, for example – always know where you’re headed and how to get there and avoid using maps or phones with navigational apps in plain sight.

  4. It is important you hire a great Real Estate agent that has a great knowledge about which areas are the safest to live. (“Best of Guadalajara List”). Consider living in a gated community.

  5. Avoid the east side of GDL. These areas include ones like Colonia Jalisco and Santa Fe. 

  6. Is Mexico Safer than the US? This video compares Mexico to the USA and explains why Mexico is safer.

Our Experience

We chose a secure, gated condo in Virreyes Las Cumbres, Zapopan, and despite occasional security protocol fatigue, we feel extremely safe. After four years in Guadalajara, we've never felt unsafe, a contrast to our experiences in Europe and the US. Mexicans are generally honest and kind, making us feel welcome and at ease.

PROS

Nuestra oferta

  • Un listado GRATIS de un mes a cambio de un descuento o regalo que ofrecerás a nuestros suscriptores cuando te digan que vienen de RAMITA (Ejemplos: 10% de descuento, bebidas o aperitivos gratis, etc...)

  • Después del mes de prueba, puedes suscribirte a nuestro Programa Especial de Socios por solo $200 MXN al mes (a pagar $600 trimestrales).

  • O si prefiere no aparecer en RAMITA, solo háganoslo saber. Es así de simple.

  1. English is well spoken. And there are many affordable ways to learn Spanish by checking TWIG's recommended Spanish teachers & schools.

  2. Fast Internet: Guadalajara is the Silicon Valley of Mexico. It is part of the next great hope for tech nearshoring. Mexico in general ranked 90th in the world for mobile speeds and 84th for fixed broadband speeds during May 2024.

  3. Weather: Amazing spring like weather all year long. It’s never too hot or too cold in GDL. It's one of the 8 Cities in Mexico with Cooler Weather Year Round!

  4. Easy Transportation System: Bus, light rail, safe private drivers, top biking system, Uber, Didi and taxi services.

  5. Cultural Hub: It is an exciting cultural city with over 30 museums and a historical center that will remind you of Europe. Also home of tequila, mariachi music, and charrería (sport similar to rodeo).  The FICG is Latin America's largest film event, showcasing over 280 films from 45 countries and drawing over 142,000 attendees annually. Founded in 1986, the festival has hosted stars such as Eva Longoria and Salma Hayek as well as established artists like Arturo Ripstein, Gabriel Figueroa, María Félix, Jaime Humberto Hermosillo, Silvia Pinal, and others. Count on TWIG's Super Event Calendar listing over 800 upcoming events to know everything happening in vibrant GDL.

  6. A City of Education: Known as the “city of universities,” GDL has a high literacy rate of almost 98% and hosts the Guadalajara International Book Fair each November (FIL - Feria Internacional del Libro de Guadalajara) the largest book fair in the Americas, and second-largest book fair in the world after Frankfurt's. The feel of the town is one of bright people, students, writers, and business people crowd into cafés and eateries to visit with friends and talk about ideas and the world.  

  7. Global Sporting Events: As the birthplace of the Mexican national sport of charrería (sport similar to rodeo), the state of Jalisco's rich sporting history has captivated visitors for decades, and as the region continues to welcome annual experiences, athletics enthusiasts will delight in a variety of thrilling competitions. For example, the state regularly hosts International tournaments such as the Guadalajara Women Open Akron Tennis Tournament, held annually in September; the European Karate Championships, The Gay Games or the World Taekwondo Championships. GDL itself is home of the most popular football clubs in Mexico (Club Deportivo / Chivas), basketball (Astros Jalisco Stars), baseball (Mariachis of GDL), and the famous Mexican wrestling, Lucha libre. See nearby Puerto Vallarta's famous sporting events. Looking ahead, Guadalajara will be among 16 cities to host the ultra-anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, solidifying the state's standing as a global sports destination. Count on TWIG's Super Event Calendar listing over 800 upcoming events to know everything happening in vibrant GDL.

  8. Low Cost of Living (for such a developed cosmopolitan modern city): Low Taxes or No Taxes. Foreign Earned Income Exclusion of $109,000 USD. Monthly cost of living is affordable at $800 to $1,100 US (unless you favor a luxurious life $2,300 to $2,800 US).

  9. Good Private Schools: Guadalajara education offers many options for your family, including public schools, private schools and international schools. Homeschooling is also allowed in Mexico. (TWIG partners with a wonderful School Specialist to answer all your questions).

  10. Many Untapped Business Opportunities: TWIG was born from a lack of a "one-place" to go to for the hundreds of events occurring in the city weekly. We noticed that there are many more business opportunities in the Guadalajara's area.

  11. Great Place to Age: Retiree Discounts. Elderly people are highly respected. TWIG recommends connecting with Lisa Cortes from the GetHiredClub to find the perfect remote work for yourself or our recommend Business Partners to help you start your own business successfully in GDL.

  12. Beautiful Architecture: The architecture is modern but exciting. Discover Mexico’s Greatest Architect in Guadalajara, and the the 28 best architecture in Guadalajara. 

  13. Great Healthcare: Guadalajara healthcare has a well-deserved reputation in Mexico. The city has several internationally known medical training universities, 10,000 experienced medical professionals and 200 private medical centers, in addition to state-run IMSS facilities. It offers a robust affordable Healthcare, Assisted-Living Homes, and Health Insurance. See the Best of GDL List. Do not miss TWIG's curated GUADALAJARA HEALTH ESSENTIALS guide.

  14. LGBTQ+ Friendly: Jalisco has long been recognized as an LGBTQ tourism destination and was the first state to recognize transgender kids and youth rights to their legal identity. Known as one of the most progressive cities in Latin America, Guadalajara has established itself as global leader in LGBTQ+ tourism, thanks in part to anti-discrimination laws, the legalization of same-sex marriage and the creation of a Sexual Diversity Director role in state-level government. Guadalajara's Pride parade has become one of the largest in Latin America, attracting more than 100,000 attendees, and we've been in the international spotlight as a city hosting the Gay Games 2023. The LGBTQ+-friendly destination further earned recognition in Travel + Leisure's Global Vision Awards for its game-changing initiatives that have made the state one of the most progressive in Latin America. Rounding out the accolades, the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards honored Jalisco Tourism with the Gold Award in the Destination Marketing category for positioning the state as a Leading LGBTQ+ Tourism Destination. Do not miss TWIG's curated LGBTQ+ GUADALAJARA GUIDE.

  15. Kindness & Humanity: Tapatios (people born in GDL) are extremely nice, helpful and welcoming. They have strong Family Values and strong Communities.

  16. High Quality Expats from all around the world: About 45,000 foreigners live in GDL (according to the 2020 Mexican Census), of those 25,000 are U.S. citizens. Do not miss TWIG's Connect page listing over 50 friendly groups and meetups!

  17. Worldly Growing Reputation: Guadalajara secured a spot on TIME's 2023 World's Greatest Places list and on Travel + Leisure's prestigious "World's Best" list, securing positions as one of the "25 Favorite Cities in the World of 2023" (No. 23) and "5 Favorite Cities in Mexico of 2023" (No. 5). 

  18. Great Food: Fresh Food, produce and seafood. Home of Tequila. Enjoy the delicious street food (Yes, it is safe to eat at the small vendors). The city offers an abundance of restaurants and bars. See the Best of GDL List. Do not miss TWIG's curated DISCOVER GOURMET GUADALAJARA and GUADALAJARA UNCORKED.

  19. Green City: Since 2020, Guadalajara is recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Arbor Day Foundation, as Tree City of the World. It offers lots of beautiful tailored trees (Primavera, Rosa morada, Jacaranda, Galeana, Lluvia de oro, Tabachín, Colorín, Clavellina, among other species), green areas & parks.

  20. Countless Activities: Choose between hundreds of wonderful day trips & activities. You'll never feel bored in GDL.

  21. Good Economy: Voted among the Cities of the Future. Zapopan was the #1 job creator in all of Mexico in 2022.

  22. A City of the Old and New: GDL offers all the amenities of a large cosmopolitan city, while feeling like a small human city. A city of contrast, both modern and historical, it is the perfect combination of Latin, European and North American lifestyles. Choose to live a modern or traditional life, in a vibrant area (Chapultepec area, Historical Center or Downtown) or quieter area (Newer Zapopan, Providencia or Chapalita).

  23. Upscale Shopping & Malls: There are stores that rival any urban center in Europe or the United States and are considered the wealthiest and most elegant of Mexico. If you enjoy shopping, you will want to visit the Andares Mall and the Palacio de Hierro store or The Landmark for very upscale shopping. 

  24. Quality of Life: You can afford to hire a a Spanish teacher, a housekeeper, a driver, a gardener, the best lawyer, doctor, dentist or cosmetologist, create a gorgeous home, take multiple classes, enjoy a weekly facial or massage, and go out regularly. See the Best of GDL List. 

  25. No aggressivity. Tapatios (people born in GDL) are extremely nice, helpful and welcoming. Mexico is a neutral country not engaging in international wars.

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AS FRANK SINATRA ONCE SANG "THAT'S LIFE!"

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