Worry-Free Guide to Safe Costa Rica Travel

Your accommodation is more than just a place to sleep; it’s your sanctuary, a secure home base from which you can explore and adventure. That feeling of having a safe, restorative place to return to is essential for a truly renewing trip. But that sense of security shouldn't be confined to your resort. It should travel with you, whether you’re exploring a local town or hiking to a hidden waterfall. This guide is designed to extend that feeling of peace of mind to your entire journey. By making a few thoughtful preparations, you can ensure every aspect of your trip supports a feeling of well-being and safe Costa Rica travel.

Key Takeaways

  • Thoughtful preparation is your foundation for peace: Arrange airport transfers, back up essential documents, and secure comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. This intentional planning allows you to arrive with confidence and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
  • Practice mindful awareness in your surroundings: The key to staying safe is being present. Be discreet with valuables to avoid petty theft, respect the power of ocean currents, and trust your intuition when exploring new places.
  • Connect with Costa Rica through respectful choices: Honor the local culture by understanding its customs and laws. Support the environment by choosing reputable tour operators and interacting with wildlife from a distance, ensuring a more genuine and secure journey.

Is Costa Rica Safe for Travelers?

Costa Rica is a country celebrated for its natural beauty and the warmth of its people. Like any travel destination, the key to a truly restorative journey is feeling secure and present in your surroundings. Understanding the local context and preparing thoughtfully allows you to relax fully into the experience, whether you’re catching your first wave or watching a sunset from your balcony. While official sources offer important guidance, it’s also helpful to understand what that advice means on the ground. With a bit of mindful awareness, you can move through this beautiful country with confidence and peace of mind, focusing on the connection and renewal that brought you here. The vast majority of visits to Costa Rica are completely trouble-free, and being an informed traveler is the best way to ensure yours is one of them.

Check Official Travel Advisories

Before you travel, it’s always wise to review official guidance. The U.S. Department of State provides a Costa Rica Travel Advisory that currently suggests travelers “Exercise Increased Caution” due to crime. This is a common advisory level for many countries and serves as a reminder to remain aware of your surroundings. Similarly, the Government of Canada recommends a high degree of caution, particularly in urban areas. These advisories are not meant to deter you from visiting; instead, they empower you with the information needed to travel smartly and safely, so you can focus on your experience.

Separate Fact from Fiction on Crime

When you hear about crime, it’s important to understand the specifics. In Costa Rica, the most common issues affecting travelers are petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft from unattended cars, similar to what you might find in other popular tourist destinations worldwide. While more serious incidents can occur, they are far less common. The best approach is to travel with the same awareness you would use anywhere else. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, be mindful of your belongings in crowded places, and don’t carry large amounts of cash. This simple vigilance allows you to protect your property and focus on the incredible Surf Synergy experience that awaits.

Common Crimes and How to Avoid Them

Costa Rica’s Pura Vida spirit is built on a foundation of peace and a deep connection to nature. While the country is overwhelmingly safe and welcoming, being a mindful traveler is key to a truly restorative journey. Like any popular destination, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings. Understanding local conditions doesn’t create worry; it creates confidence, allowing you to relax more deeply into your experience.

Most issues travelers encounter are minor and preventable. Crimes are typically those of opportunity, like petty theft, rather than serious threats. By taking a few simple, intentional steps, you can protect your belongings and ensure your focus remains on the warm Pacific waters and the transformative moments that await you. This awareness is just another part of the holistic approach to your travels, ensuring your peace of mind from arrival to departure. The goal is to move through this beautiful country with a sense of ease, fully present for every sunset and every wave.

Protect Yourself from Petty Theft

The best way to protect your valuables is to be thoughtful about what you carry. While exploring local towns or relaxing on the beach, consider leaving unnecessary items like fine jewelry, expensive electronics, and excess cash secured in your hotel safe. This simple act allows you to immerse yourself in the moment without distraction. When you are out, keep your wallet, phone, and other essentials secure and close to your body, especially in crowded markets or public spaces. According to the U.S. Department of State, being discreet and aware is one of the most effective ways to avoid becoming a target for petty crime.

Keep Your Rental Car Secure

Exploring Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes by car is an incredible experience, and a few key habits will keep your vehicle and belongings safe. The most important rule is to never leave anything of value in your car, not even for a few minutes. Bags, passports, and electronics should always come with you when you park, particularly at beaches and national parks where break-ins can happen quickly. When you lock your car, it’s a good practice to manually check the doors to ensure they are secure, as thieves occasionally use devices that block the signal from your key fob. Choosing paid, secure parking lots when available also adds another layer of security.

Stay Safe in Social Settings

The warmth of Costa Rican culture makes it a wonderful place for connection, whether you are traveling solo or with a group. To ensure your interactions are always positive, it’s important to remain aware of your environment, especially at night. We recommend avoiding walking on beaches or in isolated areas after dark. When enjoying local nightlife, trust your intuition; if a situation doesn’t feel right, simply remove yourself from it. For solo travelers, particularly women, being mindful in social settings is key. At Surf Synergy, we foster a safe and supportive community experience, providing a secure home base for all your adventures.

Your Guide to Health and Wellness in Costa Rica

A trip to Costa Rica is a chance to reset your system and connect with the natural world. The country’s commitment to pura vida extends to its excellent healthcare and focus on well-being, making it an ideal destination for a restorative escape. While you can feel confident in the country’s infrastructure, a little thoughtful preparation ensures your journey is seamless, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Taking a few simple steps before you travel will give you the peace of mind to focus on what matters: warm Pacific waters, transformative surf sessions, and deep renewal.

Vaccinations and Health Recommendations

A great first step in planning any international trip is to chat with your doctor or a travel health specialist. They can offer personalized advice based on your health history and travel plans. Generally, it’s wise to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends the Hepatitis A vaccine, as it can be transmitted through contaminated food or water. While there is no risk of Yellow Fever in Costa Rica, be aware that if you are arriving from a country where it is present, you will need to show proof of vaccination upon entry.

Tips for Preventing Mosquito Bites

In a tropical environment teeming with life, you’ll naturally encounter insects. Mosquitoes in Costa Rica can carry illnesses like Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya, but protecting yourself is straightforward. We recommend packing a reliable insect repellent and applying it before heading out, especially during the beautiful sunrise and sunset hours when mosquitoes are most active. Wearing light, long-sleeved clothing can also provide an effective barrier. These simple precautions allow you to comfortably enjoy every moment, from early morning yoga sessions to evenings spent listening to the sounds of the jungle.

Enjoy Local Food and Water Safely

One of the greatest joys of traveling is experiencing the local cuisine. Costa Rica is full of fresh, vibrant flavors, from tropical fruits to delicious traditional dishes. At Surf Synergy, our farm-to-table meals are thoughtfully prepared with the highest standards of quality and safety. When you’re exploring other areas, a good rule of thumb is to favor food that is cooked, boiled, or peeled. While tap water is generally considered safe to drink in most parts of the country, choosing bottled or filtered water is an easy way to stay on the safe side, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.

Respect Wildlife and Nature

Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity is one of its greatest treasures. As visitors, we have a shared responsibility to protect it. Interacting with wildlife should always be done from a respectful distance. This not only keeps you safe but also protects the animals and their natural behaviors. Avoid feeding any wildlife, as it can disrupt their health and make them dependent on humans. By staying on marked trails and following the guidance of local experts, you contribute to the preservation of this pristine environment. This mindful approach ensures Costa Rica’s ecosystems remain vibrant for generations to come.

Getting Around Costa Rica Safely

Exploring Costa Rica is an experience in itself, from the winding roads that climb through cloud forests to the coastal highways that trace the edge of the warm Pacific. Your journey through these vibrant landscapes should feel as renewing as your time in the water. Moving around the country with ease and confidence simply requires a bit of intention. Whether you choose to rent a car for ultimate freedom or rely on local transport, a few mindful practices will ensure your travels are smooth, allowing you to stay present and connected to the beauty surrounding you.

The key is to plan your transportation with the same care you put into choosing your destination. By making thoughtful choices about how you get from one place to the next, you set the stage for a trip defined by peace of mind, not unnecessary stress. This allows you to focus on what truly matters: your personal reset and the incredible experiences that await.

Choose Licensed Taxis and Shuttles

When you need a local ride, choosing the right taxi is a simple way to ensure your safety. Official airport taxis are orange, while you’ll find licensed red taxis with a yellow triangle on the side throughout the country. We recommend arranging rides through your hotel or a trusted service in advance rather than hailing one from the street. This small step removes any uncertainty and is a common practice for seasoned travelers. For more detailed information, you can review official travel advice from government sources, which often provide helpful local insights for a seamless journey.

Tips for Driving in Costa Rica

Driving here offers incredible freedom to explore at your own pace, and the views are well worth it. It’s also an experience that calls for your full attention. Road conditions can vary, and local driving styles may feel different from what you’re used to. To stay grounded behind the wheel, make it a habit to keep your doors locked and valuables out of sight. Many travelers also prefer to limit their driving to daylight hours. By adopting these simple practices, you can turn every drive into a safe and scenic part of your adventure, fully soaking in the lush landscapes as they unfold before you.

Arrange Safe Airport Transfers

Your journey toward renewal should begin the moment you land. Arranging your airport transfer before you arrive is one of the best ways to create a seamless transition into your vacation. It allows you to bypass the stress of navigating a new airport and instead sink into the ease of knowing a trusted driver is waiting for you. At Surf Synergy, we believe your peace of mind is paramount, which is why we are happy to arrange private shuttles directly from the airport to our door. It’s a simple, intentional choice that lets you exhale and begin your transformative experience from the very first mile.

Understanding Local Laws and Customs

Part of a truly transformative travel experience is connecting with the place you’re visiting. In Costa Rica, this means embracing the famous “Pura Vida” lifestyle, which is rooted in respect for nature, community, and a slower, more intentional way of living. Understanding and honoring local customs and laws is a simple way to show that respect and ensure your interactions are positive. When you travel with awareness, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to the welcoming spirit that makes this country so special. It allows you to move with ease and confidence, focusing on the incredible experiences that await, from the perfect wave to a quiet moment of reflection in the jungle.

Key Laws for Visitors

While Costa Rica is incredibly welcoming, it’s important to remember you are a guest in another country. Familiarizing yourself with a few key local laws is essential for a smooth and worry-free trip. You are required to carry a valid ID, like your passport, at all times. It’s wise to keep a digital or physical copy in a separate place as a backup. Also, be aware that penalties for drug offenses are severe and strictly enforced. Finally, a lesser-known rule is that it’s illegal to photograph official government buildings, so be mindful of where you’re pointing your camera.

How to Be a Respectful Traveler

Being a respectful traveler goes beyond just following the rules; it’s about your mindset and actions. Ticos (Costa Ricans) are known for their warmth and friendliness, and you can reciprocate this by learning a few basic Spanish phrases like "por favor" (please) and "gracias" (thank you). Tipping customs are different here; a 10% service charge is usually included in restaurant bills, so extra tipping is not expected but is appreciated for exceptional service. By approaching your journey with curiosity and respect, you open yourself up to more genuine connections and a deeper appreciation for the culture.

What to Leave at Home

To fully immerse yourself in the Pura Vida lifestyle, consider what you can leave behind. It’s best to leave expensive jewelry, flashy watches, and unnecessary electronics at home. This not only reduces the risk of theft but also helps you disconnect and be more present. More importantly, do not bring any illegal substances with you. Marijuana, including related CBD products, is illegal in Costa Rica, as are other drugs. Traveling light, both physically and mentally, allows you to focus on what truly matters: your well-being, your connection to nature, and the incredible experiences you’re here to create.

Keep Your Money and Documents Secure

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your focus remains on the waves and the sunset, not on your wallet. Traveling with peace of mind allows you to be fully present for your experience. By taking a few simple, intentional steps to secure your valuables and documents, you can move through your Costa Rican adventure with confidence and ease, knowing you have a solid plan in place. This isn't about worrying; it's about being prepared so you can let go and immerse yourself completely in the Pura Vida lifestyle.

Smart Ways to Carry Cash and Valuables

The best approach is to blend in. Leave flashy jewelry or expensive watches at home; they don’t suit the relaxed, natural rhythm of Costa Rica anyway. When you head out for the day, carry only the cash you’ll need and one credit card. Keep your phone and wallet in a secure spot, like a front pocket or a zipped bag, rather than a back pocket. Many experienced travelers also carry a photocopy of their passport for identification, leaving the original document safely stored in their room. This simple habit can prevent a major headache if your bag gets misplaced.

Use ATMs and Credit Cards Safely

While credit cards are widely accepted, you’ll want some local currency (colones) for smaller purchases. When you need to withdraw cash, choose ATMs located inside banks or in well-lit, busy areas. It’s wise to avoid taking out large sums at once. Before you leave home, notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates. This helps them monitor for any unusual activity and ensures your card isn’t frozen unexpectedly. As a general rule, it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings during any financial transaction.

How to Back Up Important Documents

Creating backups of your essential documents is one of the smartest things you can do before any trip. Always carry a valid form of identification, but keep your passport secured at your accommodation. The Government of Canada and other official sources recommend keeping a photocopy and a digital copy of your passport, driver’s license, and flight information. Store digital copies in a secure cloud service or email them to yourself for easy access. Keep physical photocopies in a separate bag from the originals. This way, if anything goes missing, you have everything you need to sort it out quickly.

How to Choose Safe Accommodations

Where you choose to rest your head at night is the foundation of a restorative trip. Your accommodation is more than just a room; it’s your sanctuary, a place to recharge between adventures and connect with your surroundings. Selecting the right place allows you to fully relax, knowing you are in a secure and welcoming environment. This peace of mind is essential for a truly transformative experience, letting you immerse yourself in the beauty of Costa Rica without a second thought. When you choose wisely, you create a home base that supports your entire journey, from morning surf sessions to quiet evenings under the stars.

What to Look for in a Safe Location

The character of a neighborhood can define your travel experience. Before booking, spend some time researching different areas. Look for locations with a positive reputation among travelers and a welcoming community feel. Online forums and travel blogs can offer firsthand accounts that paint a clear picture of a town’s atmosphere. A well-lit area with easy access to reputable restaurants and shops is often a good sign. The goal is to find a place that feels both vibrant and secure, allowing you to explore with confidence. Choosing a location known for its tranquility lets you focus on your wellness and connection to nature.

Choose Reputable Hotels and Resorts

Opting for an established hotel or resort with a history of positive guest feedback is one of the surest ways to ensure a safe stay. Costa Rica is widely regarded as a secure destination for wellness travelers, and reputable accommodations are a key part of that. Look for places with consistently high ratings and detailed reviews that speak to the staff’s attentiveness and the property’s security. A resort with a strong online presence and clear communication demonstrates a commitment to guest care. Reading through testimonials can give you a genuine sense of the experience and the peace of mind that comes with choosing a trusted retreat.

Key Security Features in Accommodations

When you arrive, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the security features of your room and the property. Always ensure your doors and windows have secure, functioning locks and use them, especially at night or when you are out. Many reputable resorts have on-site staff available around the clock and controlled access to the property. It’s also a good practice to save the front desk number in your phone. At an all-inclusive resort, the dedicated team is always present, providing an added layer of security and support so you can fully unwind and be present in the moment.

What to Do in an Emergency

While your time in Costa Rica is meant for connection and renewal, a little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring your peace of mind. Knowing who to call and what to do in an unexpected situation allows you to relax more deeply into your experience. Being prepared isn’t about expecting the worst; it’s about empowering yourself to handle any circumstance with confidence, so you can remain present and focused on your journey.

Think of these steps as a simple checklist to complete before you travel. By organizing a few key details ahead of time, you create a foundation of security that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the warm Pacific waters, the vibrant jungle, and the transformative wellness experiences that await you. With these essentials in place, you can let go of worry and embrace every moment.

Important Numbers to Save

Before you even pack your bags, take a moment to save a few key contacts in your phone. Costa Rica uses 911 as its central emergency number, connecting you to police, ambulance, and fire services. It’s a simple, crucial piece of information to have at your fingertips. We also recommend saving the number for your accommodation, your airline, and a trusted contact back home. Having these numbers readily available means you can get assistance quickly without having to search for information under pressure. This small act of preparation is one of the easiest ways to ensure a smooth and worry-free journey.

Contact Your Embassy or Consulate

Your home country’s embassy or consulate is an essential resource for travelers, especially in situations like a lost or stolen passport, a serious medical issue, or a legal concern. Before your trip, find the contact information for your country’s embassy in San José and save it. For instance, the U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica provides services and support for its citizens abroad. Many countries also offer a traveler registration program, which can help officials contact you in a large-scale emergency. Knowing this support system is available provides an added layer of security while you explore.

Why Travel Insurance is Essential

We view travel insurance as a non-negotiable part of planning a restorative getaway. It’s an investment in your well-being that provides a critical safety net for unexpected events. A comprehensive plan should cover everything from trip cancellations and delays to medical emergencies, including hospital stays and potential medical evacuation. The right travel insurance policy allows you to fully embrace every adventure, from surfing a new break to exploring a rainforest trail, knowing you are protected from significant financial stress if something goes wrong. It’s about giving yourself the freedom to be fully present.

Helpful Apps for Travelers

Technology can be a wonderful tool for staying safe and connected while traveling. Before you arrive, consider downloading a few helpful applications to your phone. An offline map application like Google Maps (with the region downloaded) ensures you can find your way without a data connection. A translation app can help you communicate with locals, and WhatsApp is widely used throughout Costa Rica for everything from confirming reservations to chatting with new friends. You might also look for apps that provide local safety alerts or store digital copies of your important documents, keeping everything you need in one secure place.

Safety Tips for Different Regions

Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity means the landscape can change dramatically from the city to the coast to the cloud forest. Each region offers a unique experience, and with that comes a unique set of considerations for staying safe. The energy of urban San José is entirely different from the tranquil rhythm of the Pacific coastline or the wild seclusion of a remote rainforest. Understanding these nuances is the key to a seamless journey. This isn’t about limiting your adventure; it’s about preparing for it. By being mindful of your surroundings, you can immerse yourself fully and confidently in the Pura Vida spirit, knowing you’re making smart, informed choices wherever your travels take you.

Staying Safe in San José

San José is a bustling hub of culture and history, but like any major city, it requires a mindful approach. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, can occur, particularly in crowded areas like the Mercado Central or near bus terminals. The key is to move with awareness. Keep your valuables, including your passport, secured and out of sight. According to travel advisories, it's wise to avoid displaying expensive jewelry or large amounts of cash. By blending in and keeping your belongings close, you can comfortably explore the city’s museums, architecture, and vibrant markets while minimizing your risk of becoming a target for opportunistic theft.

Beach and Ocean Safety

The warm Pacific waters are one of Costa Rica’s greatest gifts, but they command respect. The most significant factor to be aware of is rip currents, which are powerful channels of water that can pull even strong swimmers away from shore. Before you enter the water, take a moment to observe the conditions. It’s always best to swim at beaches with lifeguards and pay close attention to any posted warning signs. At Surf Synergy, our 1:1 surf instruction always begins with a thorough lesson on ocean safety, ensuring you understand how to read the waves and currents for a confident and renewing experience in the water.

Enjoying Adventure Sports Safely

From zip-lining through the canopy to rafting down river rapids, Costa Rica is an adventurer’s playground. To make the most of these incredible experiences, always choose reputable, certified tour operators. These companies prioritize safety, maintain their equipment, and employ knowledgeable guides who understand the local environment. For activities like hiking, be aware that trails can be unmarked and weather can shift quickly. Never go alone, let someone know your plans, and ensure your travel insurance covers activities like medical evacuation, just in case. Thoughtful preparation allows you to focus on the thrill of the adventure.

How to Stay Connected and Informed

A sense of connection is central to a renewing travel experience, both with your new surroundings and with loved ones back home. Staying informed during your travels in Costa Rica is straightforward and helps ensure a seamless, worry-free stay. While the country is known for its safety and stability, having reliable communication channels and sources of information allows you to relax more deeply into your adventure. It’s about feeling prepared so you can be fully present, whether you’re catching a wave or watching a sunset. Thoughtful preparation allows you to embrace the spontaneity of travel with confidence, knowing you have the tools to stay in touch and aware of your environment. This approach lets you focus on what truly matters: your personal transformation and connection to the vibrant life of Costa Rica.

Best Ways to Communicate

Staying in touch is simple in Costa Rica. Most hotels, resorts, and cafes offer reliable Wi-Fi, making it easy to use messaging apps or video calls to connect with family. For communication on the go, consider purchasing a local prepaid SIM card upon arrival at the airport or in any major town. This is often the most cost-effective way to have data and a local number. Major local providers like Kölbi, Claro, and Movistar offer tourist-friendly packages. Alternatively, you can check with your home provider about their international roaming plans. Having a reliable way to make calls or access maps provides an extra layer of comfort as you explore the country’s beautiful landscapes.

Find Reliable Local Information

To stay current on local conditions, it’s best to rely on official sources. Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America, with a stable democracy and excellent infrastructure, which contributes to a secure environment for travelers. The U.S. Embassy and the official Visit Costa Rica tourism board website are excellent resources for any travel updates or regional news. Following their guidance ensures you have the most accurate information. At Surf Synergy, our concierge is also always available to provide updates and answer any questions about the local area, offering personalized information to help you feel completely at ease during your stay.

Make Friends and Local Connections

One of the most rewarding aspects of traveling through Costa Rica is connecting with its people. Costa Ricans, or Ticos, are known for their warm, welcoming, and helpful nature. Striking up a conversation is often as simple as offering a friendly "Pura Vida." Engaging with local guides, artisans, and community members not only enriches your experience but also provides a genuine sense of security. These personal connections can offer valuable insights and recommendations that you won’t find in a guidebook. Many visitors find that these interactions become the most cherished parts of their journey, creating a feeling of belonging that lasts long after they return home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I saw the official travel advisory mentions “Increased Caution.” What does that actually mean for my trip? This is a common advisory level for many popular travel destinations around the world. Think of it not as a warning to stay away, but as a gentle reminder to travel with awareness, just as you would in any new place. It encourages you to be mindful of your surroundings and belongings, which allows you to relax more deeply into your experience. For most travelers, this simply means using common sense like securing valuables and being aware in crowded areas, ensuring your focus can remain on the connection and renewal you came for.

What advice do you have for someone traveling to Costa Rica alone? Costa Rica is a wonderful and welcoming destination for solo travelers. The key to a great trip is choosing a supportive home base and trusting your intuition in social settings. An environment like Surf Synergy provides a built-in community, allowing you to connect with like-minded people in a secure and curated space. When you venture out, move with confidence, be mindful of your surroundings (especially at night), and know that the warm, friendly nature of Ticos makes for genuinely positive interactions.

What are the essential health precautions I should take before my trip? A conversation with your doctor before you travel is always the best first step for personalized advice. Generally, ensuring your routine vaccinations are current is recommended. To stay comfortable in the tropical climate, pack a reliable insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites, especially around dawn and dusk. When it comes to food and water, you can enjoy Costa Rica’s fresh cuisine with confidence. While tap water is generally safe, opting for filtered or bottled water is a simple way to give yourself extra peace of mind.

What is the safest and most stress-free way to get around Costa Rica? For ultimate peace of mind, arranging private transportation in advance is the most seamless option. This is especially true for your arrival and departure from the airport, as it allows you to begin your journey in a state of relaxation. While renting a car offers freedom, it does require your full attention on unfamiliar roads. For local trips, using licensed red taxis arranged by your hotel is a reliable choice. Planning your transport intentionally removes uncertainty and lets you stay present for the beautiful scenery.

Beyond my passport and wallet, what should I be most mindful of protecting? Protecting your peace of mind is just as important as protecting your physical belongings. You can do this by leaving unnecessary valuables and worries at home. Travel with an open, respectful mindset and a willingness to connect with the local culture. By being present and aware, you naturally avoid situations that might cause stress. This approach allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Pura Vida lifestyle, ensuring your journey is truly restorative.

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