SpainLife (2025)

24/05/2025

#50 Chapel of Saint Christopher "Flowers in the Mirror" / Capella de Sant Cristòfol "Les flors s’emmirallen". Girona, Temps de Flors 2025
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08/05/2025

70 Years of Floral Magic in Girona: Girona, Temps de Flors 2025
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🌸 From May 10 to 18, the Spanish city of Girona transforms into a breathtaking open-air flower garden! The legendary festival "Girona, Temps de Flors" celebrates its 70th anniversary, inviting you to dive into a magical spring atmosphere.
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Explore 146 incredible floral displays across 114 unique venues, including historic mansions, charming gardens, famous squares, and landmarks, many of which open their doors for the first time.
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Don’t miss the stunning flower installations on the steps of Girona Cathedral and the enchanting light show at Passeig Arqueològic. Enjoy live jazz, blues, and choir concerts in Girona’s picturesque squares and gardens.
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Festival highlights:
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🎶 May 10 – concerts by music schools and the Gospel Choir.
🎶 May 11 – dances, castellers, and vibrant choir performances.
🎶 May 13 – memorial evening for Rosa Maria Labayen and jazz concerts.
🎶 May 16 – grand closing event and a unique performance by Metropolitan Union.
🎶 May 17 – Museum Night with performances by popular bands.
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The festival runs daily from 9:30 am to 9:00 pm, extending until 11:00 pm, and on Saturdays until midnight. A special relaxation area for families and neurodivergent visitors is available daily.
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This year's anniversary poster was created by talented artist Eloy Fontalba Martínez, inspired by the vivid stained glass of Girona Cathedral and the joyful spirit of spring.
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🌷 Visit Girona, feel its unique vibe, and make this spring unforgettable! 🌷
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22/04/2025

🌹📚 Roses and Books: Sant Jordi’s Celebration in the Heart of Catalonia 📚🌹
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Every year on April 23, Catalonia celebrates a very special day — Sant Jordi’s Day, one of the region’s most beloved and beautiful holidays. On this day, the streets fill with the scent of roses, the rustle of pages, and an atmosphere of true magic.
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According to an ancient legend, a fierce dragon terrorized a town and kidnapped a princess named Clara. Everyone was in despair... until a brave knight, Sant Jordi, appeared, defeated the beast, and rescued the girl. From the dragon’s blood, a crimson rose bloomed — a symbol of love and bravery, which the knight gifted to the princess. 🌹
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Since then, this day has been celebrated in a special way: men give women roses, and women give men books, symbolizing love and knowledge. Today, it’s more inclusive — everyone gives to everyone. 😊
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On this day, Barcelona transforms into a giant book and flower fair. Right on the streets, you can buy books from your favorite authors, get autographs, pick out a special rose with a Catalan ribbon, take part in contests, and simply enjoy spring and culture.
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This holiday has become not only a symbol of love, but also of respect for culture, literature, and language. That’s why many Catalans wear yellow ribbons as a sign of support for their native culture and identity.
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📖 A book — wisdom.
🌹 A rose — love.
And all of it — Sant Jordi.
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Don’t miss this day if you’re in Catalonia in spring. It will surely stay in your heart!
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20/04/2025

Easter Morning in Catalonia: The Easter Procession of the Risen Christ and the Angel's Song
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⛪️ Easter Sunday in Catalonia is marked by a beautiful and emotional tradition — El Cant de l’Àngel, The Angel’s Song. This custom is preserved only in three towns: Blanes, Calella, and Olot, and it represents the moment when the angel announces to the Virgin Mary that Jesus has risen.
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👼 A child from the community, dressed as an angel, sings the Latin hymn Regina Coeli ("Queen of Heaven") in the main square, usually near the town hall. This moment is the highlight of the Procession of the Risen Christ and the symbolic welcome to Easter. Later, the child repeats the song during Mass inside the church.
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📍 This Catalan Easter tradition is full of faith, tenderness, and emotion — a heartfelt ritual passed down through generations.
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18/04/2025

✨ XXVIII Medieval Fair of Hostalric, 2025: Dive into the Age of Knights, Witches, and Legends! ✨
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From April 18 to 20, 2025, the charming town of Hostalric (Girona) will host the 28th edition of the Medieval Fair — a grand event that transforms the streets and the castle into a living stage of history.
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🎭 From early morning, the town comes to life — the clatter of armor fills the air, bagpipes play ancient melodies, the streets are filled with the aroma of medieval cuisine, and you’ll encounter folklore characters, dancing witches, and cheerful jesters around every corner.
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🏰 Highlights of the Fair: 🔹 The ceremonial procession and welcome of the Viscounts of Cabrera
🔹 Knight School for both children and adults
🔹 Historical reenactments inside the castle
🔹 Fiery night show “La Tribu de Drako”
🔹 Theatrical street animations, performances, and puppet shows
🔹 The spectacular Hildegard concert — a dramatic staging of Gregorian music
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🍖 Don’t miss the medieval flavors: 🔥 Roast piglet, Girona beef, ancient-style broths
🍷 Authentic medieval drinks and “Queimada”
🥨 Handmade sweets, cheeses, sausages, and more
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🛡 Throughout all three days: 🎪 A huge artisan and food market along Raval and Major streets
🎯 Archery tournaments and sword duels
🎨 Workshops, face painting, medieval crafts, and XXL wooden games
🎼 Live music, traditional dances, parades, and performances
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🐎 And of course — the Grand Knightly Jousting Tournament on horseback, taking place twice on Sunday — at midday and in the evening!
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📍 Where: Hostalric, Girona (Catalonia)
📆 When: April 18, 19 & 20
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📸 Follow us and stay tuned for more updates!
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17/04/2025

Good Friday Procession in Girona, 2025
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📅 April 18, 2025
🕘 Start: 9:00 PM
📍 Departure: Girona Cathedral (Plaça de la Catedral)
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The Sant Enterrament Procession is more than just a religious parade — it's a true spiritual journey, filled with the glow of torches, the sound of drums, and a profound silence. It winds through the historic streets of Girona, breathing life into the city’s ancient stone walls.
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🛤 Route:
Plaça de la Catedral → Portal de Sobreportes → Pujada Sant Feliu → Carrer Ballesteries → Argenteria → Rambla Llibertat → Pont de Pedra → Carrer Nou → Carrer Fontanilles → Av. Sant Francesc → Plaça Catalunya → Carrer Albereda → Plaça del Vi → Carrer Ciutadans → Plaça de l’Oli → Cort Reial → back through Carrer Ballesteries → Pujada Sant Feliu → and returning to Plaça de la Catedral.
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⏰ Conclusion: around 11:00 PM
At that time, an emotional encounter will take place between the Virgin Mary and the Holy Cross, followed by the singing of the hymn “Crec en un Déu” and a final blessing.
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🌧 In case of rain, a solemn ceremony will be held inside the Girona Cathedral.
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✨ The uniqueness of the Girona procession lies in its silence and symbolism. There are no loud fanfares — each step, each glance carries deep spiritual meaning. The brotherhoods (cofradías) respectfully bear the responsibility of preserving this centuries-old tradition.
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🤍 Semana Santa in Girona offers a chance to experience a living tradition, to feel how faith and history unite people in a powerful and moving way.
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17/03/2025

📊 Tax Hikes in Spain: 81 Increases Under Pedro Sánchez 📈
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Since 2018, Spain has seen a record-breaking 81 tax and social security hikes under Pedro Sánchez's government. However, taxes were not adjusted for 19% inflation, worsening the financial strain on businesses and households.
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What’s coming in 2025?
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🔹 46 new tax measures proposed by PSOE.
🔹 €8 billion in additional tax revenue expected.
🔹 Only 0.6% tax relief compared to multiple new hikes.
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Criticism of the New Tax Plan
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Some of the most controversial measures include:
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✅ Keeping the bank tax, which already led to a €40 billion drop in loans for businesses and households.
✅ Raising diesel taxes, increasing fuel costs by €7.5 per refill for 15 million drivers.
✅ Higher taxes on businesses, which could reduce Spain’s investment appeal.
How Has the Tax Burden Changed?
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From 2019 to 2023, Spain’s tax burden rose by €42 billion. The country now ranks 3rd in the EU for tax increases (+2.9% of GDP), while taxation decreased across the EU.
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📌 Spanish households already feel the impact – an average family has lost €2,200 due to increased taxation and higher prices.
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The Myth of "Low Taxes for the Wealthy"
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Some politicians claim that the rich don’t pay enough taxes, but the numbers tell a different story:
💰 5.2% of taxpayers earning over €60,000 per year contribute 41.7% of total income tax revenue.
💰 In Madrid, the top 10% of earners pay 53.75% of all IRPF income tax revenue.
What’s Next?
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Experts label the government’s tax policies as "fiscal populism", making Spain less attractive for investors and businesses. Can taxpayers withstand the rising pressure?
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📢 What’s your take on these measures? Do you support them or oppose them? Share your thoughts in the comments! 👇
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02/03/2025

🎭 Costa Brava South Carnival 2025 🎭
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Winter in Catalonia is not just about skiing – it’s also time for the region’s most vibrant carnival! 💃✨ The streets of Lloret de Mar, Blanes, and Tossa de Mar come alive with music, dancing, and endless fun. Every year, these towns are filled with colorful parades, rhythmic beats, spectacular costumes, and an incredible festive atmosphere. It’s a time when traditions blend with modern celebrations, creating an unforgettable experience for both locals and visitors.
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Carnivals in Catalonia date back to medieval traditions when grand feasts, theatrical performances, and parades were held before Lent. Over time, these events evolved into spectacular festivals that combine traditional culture with modern entertainment.
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📅 Festival Schedule:
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🔹 Lloret de Mar:
📍 March 1, 17:00 – Grand Parade 🎭
📍 March 2, 12:00 – Second day of the parade, "El Sarau" 🎉
📍 March 5, 19:00 – Burial of the Sardine ⚰️🐟
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🔹 Blanes:
📍 March 2, 17:00 – Parade with floats 🚚🎶
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🔹 Tossa de Mar:
📍 March 1, 11:00 – 35th "Rua d'en Xoxa" 🚴‍♂️🎭
📍 March 15, 16:30 – "Carnival Hangover" 🎊
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🔥 Why Visit?
✔️ Spectacular parades and dazzling costumes ✨
✔️ Live music, concerts, and parties 🎶
✔️ Authentic Catalan cuisine 🍷🍤
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The is a must-see event at least once in a lifetime! 🥳 Plan your trip in advance, book your stay, and get your costumes ready!
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28/02/2025

🔥 Carnival in Platja d'Aro 2025: The Main Winter Event in Catalonia 🎭✨
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Get ready for the most vibrant and unforgettable event of the year! The Carnival in Castell d'Aro, Platja d'Aro, and S'Agaró promises to be a true celebration of joy, music, and magic. In 2025, the Carnival will once again take place under the slogan "Without Limits!", and its kings and queens are ready to bring an atmosphere of fun that you will never forget!
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Meet the Royal Court of Carnival 2025:
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👑 Navarro – King of Youth Without Limits – an unstoppable party-maker who will create a real whirlwind of emotions!
👑 Rachel – Wise Queen Without Limits – her smile and energy will fill the celebration with joy.
👑 Amelia – Inspiring Queen Without Limits – no one will sleep while she is on stage!
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From February 22 to March 5, the city will plunge into a festive atmosphere of boundless fun!
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📅 February 22 (Saturday)
🔹 Gala Dinner for Carnival Participants (9:00 PM, Palau d’Esports i Congressos)
🔹 Presentation of the Carnival Kings 2025 and Costume Contest (11:00 PM)
🔹 Dance Party with a DJ
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📅 February 25-26
🔹 Children's Parades with the Carnival Kings and the characters Xalarí and Xalarina
🔹 Botifarrada (Traditional Catalan Picnic) – A delicious treat for everyone!
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📅 February 27 (Thursday)
🔹 Official Carnival Opening – Welcome Speech from the Kings (1:00 PM, Town Hall Square)
🔹 Grand Festive Paella Lunch (2:00 PM)
🔹 Spectacular Ball "La Vie en Rose" (6:30 PM) – Come dressed in pink!
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📅 March 1 (Saturday)
🎭 The Main Event of the Carnival – The Grand Parade of Floats and Dance Groups!
🔹 11:00 AM – Exhibition Parade (Non-competitive)
🔹 4:00 PM – Main Carnival Parade
🔹 🎖 Awards Ceremony & Afterparty
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📅 March 2-5
🔹 Giant Street Games and Family Shows
🔹 Local Parade in Castell d'Aro
🔹 Traditional Catalan Festivities – Charanga and Batucada
🔹 Farewell to the Carnival – The Burial of the Sardine
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27/02/2025

🔥 Sitges Carnival 2025: A Grand Celebration of Freedom and Fun! 🎭✨
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🌟 From February 22 to March 5, the sunny town of Sitges will host one of the world’s most dazzling carnivals! This event is ranked among the Top 10 Carnivals in the World and attracts thousands of visitors from across the globe. Get ready for a week of unbridled joy, fantastic costumes, electrifying dances, and spectacular shows!
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📌 Why is Sitges Carnival so famous?
🎭 Thrilling street parades – from children’s processions to extravagant masquerades featuring the most incredible costumes!
🎉 Epic parties until dawn – in bars, on the beach, and right on the streets of the city!
👠 Daring, extravagant outfits – from luxurious feathers and sequins to bold latex costumes and fantasy makeup!
🎆 Spectacular fire shows – fireworks, light installations, and grand performances across Sitges!
🏳️‍🌈 A spirit of total freedom – the city is famous for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, attracting travelers and party lovers from all over the world!
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📅 TOP EVENTS YOU CAN’T MISS
🔥 March 2 – "Rua de la Disbauxa" (Parade of Debauchery) – an absolute explosion of colors, music, and provocative performances!
🔥 March 4 – "Rua del Extermini" (Parade of Extermination) – a symbolic farewell to the carnival before the start of Lent!
🔥 March 5 – The Funeral of the Carnival King – a traditional ceremony featuring bonfires, fireworks, and theatrical performances.
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📍 Parade Route: Starts at Avinguda Sofia (in front of Pic Nic restaurant) and ends at Cap de la Vila Square.
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✨ Sitges Carnival is a place where the boldest dreams come true, where everyone can be themselves and enjoy life without limits!
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📸 Ready to conquer carnival Spain? Don’t forget to grab your costume, charge your phone for thousands of pictures, and get ready to dance until sunrise!
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17/02/2025

📢 BOE Confirms: €150 Fine for Incorrect Registration 📜
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💡 Important to know: If you live in one city but remain registered in the padrón of another, this violation could result in a fine of up to €150.
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✅ Why is it important to register where you live?
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- Access to education 🎓, healthcare 🏥, and social benefits 💰.
- Participation in municipal elections 🗳.
- Proper allocation of resources and representation ⚖️.
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⚠️ Violation: Providing false information or failing to register can lead to penalties.
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🔑 How to register?
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- In person at the town hall 🏢 or via an online portal 🌐.
- You will need a DNI/NIE and proof of residence (rental agreement or property deed).
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❗️ Tip: Keep your information up to date to avoid fines!
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05/02/2025

🌟 Llum BCN 2025 – The Festival of Light in the Heart of Poblenou! 🌟
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From February 7 to 9, Barcelona will once again transform into a city of light! The Llum BCN 2025 festival will bring Poblenou’s streets to life with stunning light installations created by world-renowned artists and students from 17 universities. You will witness 30 unique installations, turning urban spaces into magical stages where architecture, art, and technology merge into a breathtaking show.
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📍 Where? Poblenou, Barcelona
📅 When?
🔹 February 7: 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
🔹 February 8: 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
🔹 February 9: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
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This year’s festival will showcase works by Joan Fontcuberta, Isaki Lacuesta, Laura Clos, and Martin Pošta, the founder of Signal Festival. A special Off Llum BCN route will also feature 11 alternative installations by emerging artists!
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💡 Why should you visit?
✨ Free entry – art for everyone!
✨ Exclusive light installations, created especially for the festival.
✨ A fusion of architecture, scenography, dance, visual arts, and photography.
✨ A mesmerizing light experience that will make winter in Barcelona unforgettable!
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Get ready for three nights of magic, where light transforms the city, turning its streets into artistic masterpieces!
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SpainLife