Highlights
- Private 2-day Ephesus vehicle package from Kemer: Cover the full Ephesus heritage route with overnight overland access and a more personal sightseeing pace across both days.
- House of the Virgin Mary: Include one of the region's best-known Christian pilgrimage sites before the central Ephesus visit on day two.
- Ephesus Ancient City: Explore marble streets and monumental Roman remains through the archaeological core of ancient Ephesus.
- Terrace Houses: Add decorated Roman homes, mosaics and frescoes that deepen the main Ephesus experience.
- Basilica of St. John: Bring early Christian heritage into the route with a stop on Ayasoluk Hill in Selcuk.
- Temple of Artemis: Finish the program with the remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Why You Will Love This Tour
- The private overnight overland format gives you direct Kemer-to-Selcuk access while keeping the main Ephesus touring day more personal and better paced.
- Beginning and ending in Kemer helps center the second day on heritage stops instead of compressing the full route into a single rushed schedule.
- Including Virgin Mary, Ephesus, Terrace Houses, St. John Basilica and Artemis creates a richer historical experience than a shorter private overnight version.
- It is a strong fit for travelers who want a private Ephesus vehicle package from Kemer with broader route depth and more individual flow.
Overview
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Day 1
Kemer to Kusadasi / Selcuk Region
Kemer Hotel / Meeting Point Pick-up
Start from Kemer.
Kemer is the starting point for the private-vehicle road package.
Breakfast Break on Route BRoad breakfast stop.
The early road journey is balanced with a practical breakfast stop when timing requires it.
MealsBreakfast meal ExcludedBreakfast Break on Route helps open the private package with a familiar and grounded start before the long overland drive settles into full pace. Breakfast stops on routes like this often feature regional basics such as bread, olives, cheese, eggs, vegetables and tea, offering a practical but distinctly local beginning to the day.
The simplicity of the meal is part of its value. It gives the journey a natural rhythm and helps guests ease into the travel day in a comfortable way.
Kemer to Kusadasi / Selcuk Road JourneyLong-distance road transfer.
The road journey is separated from the Ephesus touring day so the route does not feel rushed.
Lunch Break on Route LRoad lunch stop.
The road lunch stop is used only when the transfer timing naturally reaches lunch hours.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Break on Route gives the first day a useful pause before the overnight area is reached. Roadside meals on long intercity drives in this part of the country often lean toward soups, grilled foods, cooked vegetable dishes and other straightforward regional options that support travel well.
This stop is less about ceremony and more about balance, timing and comfort. It breaks the transfer into more manageable phases while still reflecting the food habits of western Anatolian road travel.
Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)Overnight in the Ephesus region.
The overnight stop keeps the Ephesus touring day calmer and avoids a rushed same-day road return.
Accommodation & Hotel MealsOvernight accommodation ExcludedHotel dinner Excluded -
Day 2
Ephesus / Selcuk Region
Different tour end?
Interior Chapel and Altar at House of Virgin Mary 
Votive Candle Area at House of Virgin Mary 
Augustus Gate Stone Passage in Ephesus 
Photo Point at the Library of Celsus 
Roman Architecture of Celsus Library 
Temple of Hadrian Facade in Ephesus 
Historic Detail at the Terrace Houses 
St. John Basilica Ruins in Selcuk 
Archaeological Context of Temple of Artemis 
Heritage Scene at Temple of Artemis Hotel Check-out / DepartureBegin the Ephesus touring day.
The day starts from the overnight area before the classic Ephesus route.
House of Virgin MaryA peaceful pilgrimage stop on the slopes above Ephesus.
House of Virgin Mary is one of the most meaningful spiritual stops near Ephesus, visited for its quiet setting and early Christian tradition. The stop adds a reflective religious layer before the main archaeological route.
Entrance FeesHouse of Virgin Mary , €13.5 ExcludedHouse of Virgin Mary opens the private sightseeing day with a calm and spiritually resonant stop above the Ephesus plain. The site is remembered less for visual scale than for pilgrimage meaning, devotional atmosphere and the quiet created by its wooded hillside setting.
That reflective beginning helps shape the tone of the route. It introduces the region not only as a historical destination, but also as a landscape marked by sacred memory.
Ephesus Ancient CityThe main archaeological highlight of the Ephesus region.
Ephesus Ancient City shows the scale of Roman urban life through marble streets, temples, public buildings and monumental remains. It is the central historical stop of the route and gives the tour its strongest archaeological character.
Entrance FeesEphesus Ancient City , €40 ExcludedEphesus Ancient City is the historical anchor of the private vehicle package and one of the most legible surviving ancient cities in the region. Roads, monuments, public gathering spaces and ceremonial areas still relate to each other clearly enough for visitors to understand how the city once worked as an urban whole.
This continuity gives Ephesus its depth. Guests are not moving between disconnected ruins, but through a place where civic life, commerce, movement and public identity once shared the same built environment.
Terrace HousesVisit the Terrace Houses section of Ephesus to see Roman residences, mosaics, and wall paintings.
Continue inside the Ephesus archaeological zone to the Terrace Houses and see the preserved Roman residences, mosaics, and wall paintings. This section involves stairs and uneven surfaces.
Entrance FeesTerrace Houses of Ephesus , €15 ExcludedTerrace Houses deepen the experience by revealing the private residential side of upper-class life inside Ephesus. Their preserved layouts, decorative surfaces and domestic planning show how wealth, comfort and social standing were expressed within carefully organized household spaces.
This stop changes the emotional scale of the visit in a useful way. It makes the city feel more personal and inhabited, not only grand and ceremonial.
Lunch Stop (Selcuk) LA practical meal break in the Selcuk area.
The Selcuk lunch stop gives the route a natural pause between the main archaeological visit and the shorter cultural stops. It keeps the day balanced without changing the historical focus of the tour.
MealsLunch meal ExcludedLunch Stop in Selcuk introduces guests to the approachable food culture of the inland Aegean, where grilled dishes, olive oil cooking, vegetables and straightforward regional meals are common. The style is usually satisfying and unfussy, with freshness and local habit carrying more weight than presentation.
Within the flow of the private route, the stop creates a comfortable reset between major heritage points. It also offers a more lived regional layer alongside the day's better-known landmarks.
St. John BasilicaVisit the historic St. John Basilica site.
The basilica is one of Selcuk's most meaningful early Christian landmarks and adds an important religious layer after Ephesus and the Selcuk lunch stop.
Entrance FeesSt. John Basilica , €6 ExcludedSt. John Basilica expands the private route into the Christian and Byzantine significance of Selcuk. Linked with John the Apostle and later sacred prestige, the site helps visitors see that the region's importance continued through later historical and religious eras.
Its setting also helps connect the surrounding landscape. Faith tradition, memory and archaeology begin to feel less like separate themes and more like one continuous story.
Temple of ArtemisA short stop at one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Temple of Artemis is a brief but important historical stop that connects Ephesus with one of antiquitys legendary monuments. Even in its fragmentary state, the site helps explain the religious and commercial importance of the region.
Temple of Artemis closes the main heritage sequence with one of the most historically famous sacred places of the ancient world. Although little survives physically, the sanctuary's former scale and reputation still shape how the region is understood.
The stop matters because it widens the story of the day beyond city life and Christian memory. It adds the legacy of one of antiquity's great religious monuments to the overall picture.
Return Road Journey to KemerReturn road transfer.
The return road journey begins after the main Ephesus and Selcuk visits.
Dinner Break on Return Route DRoad dinner stop.
A dinner stop can be used on the return route when the arrival time is late enough to need a proper break.
MealsDinner meal ExcludedDinner Break on Return Route helps the private package settle into its final travel phase with a meal stop shaped by comfort, timing and the practical needs of a long return journey. Return-route dinners typically center on filling and accessible regional dishes that support the last stretch without unnecessary formality.
As part of the experience, the stop also works as a decompression point after a dense historical day. It gives guests time to rest and transition back into the quieter rhythm of the road home.
Kemer Hotel / Meeting Point Drop-off Different tour end?Return to Kemer.
The road package closes with drop-off in Kemer.
Different tour end?Accommodation & Hotel MealsHotel breakfast Excluded
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What's Included
- Private licensed professional tour guide.
- Private deluxe air-conditioned VIP vehicle.
- Transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
- Parking fees.
- Hotel or meeting point pick-up and drop-off.
- Local taxes.
What's Not Included
- Day 1: Overnight accommodation (Hotel Check-in (Kusadasi / Selcuk Area)).
- Day 1: Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Hotel Dinner meal.
- Day 2: Hotel Breakfast meal, Lunch meal, Dinner meal.
- Drinks.
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses.
- House of Virgin Mary, €13.5.
- Ephesus Ancient City, €40.
- St. John Basilica, €6.
- Terrace Houses of Ephesus, €15.
- Gratuities to guides and drivers.
- Travel insurance.
Informations
- Please wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing.
- Please dress according to the season and weather conditions.
- Hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended in sunny weather.
- Bring water, especially on hot days.
- Cameras are welcome, but tripods may not be permitted in some museums and archaeological sites.
- Guests should watch their step at all times to avoid injuries.
- Please check the weather forecast before your tour.
- Respectful clothing is recommended for visits to mosques and churches.
- This tour involves walking on uneven and cobblestone surfaces.
- The exact pick-up time will be confirmed after booking.
- The tour route may be adjusted due to weather, traffic, or site conditions.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult.
- Please be ready at your confirmed pick-up or meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time.
- Entrance fees may be paid by credit card or Turkish Lira.
Your Peace of Mind Options
Cancellation Policy
A transparent overview of applicable fees.
Tour Reminder!
You can create a reminder for yourself for this tour. We will send you a reminder e-mail/sms about this tour on the date you specify.
FAQs
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Is this a private 2-day Ephesus vehicle package from Kemer?
Yes. This private package starts from the Kemer region, follows an overland vehicle route to the Kusadasi or Selcuk area, includes an overnight stay and completes a private Ephesus sightseeing day before returning to Kemer. -
Is this the private package version?
Yes. This version runs as the private package format, so the road-based structure and the sightseeing day are arranged privately for the booked party. -
How does the transport work on this package?
The route begins with Kemer pickup, continues by road toward the Kusadasi or Selcuk area with planned route breaks, includes hotel check-in for the overnight stay, then completes the private Ephesus sightseeing day and returns to Kemer by road. -
Which places are included in the sightseeing day?
The sightseeing day includes House of Virgin Mary, Ephesus Ancient City, Terrace Houses, a lunch stop in Selcuk, St. John Basilica and the Temple of Artemis before the return road journey begins. -
Does this package include an overnight stay near Ephesus?
Yes. The current route includes hotel check-in in the Kusadasi or Selcuk area on day one and hotel check-out before the sightseeing route on day two. -
Does this package return to Kemer after the tour?
Yes. After the sightseeing route in the Selcuk and Ephesus area, the program continues with the return road journey and finishes with final drop-off in the Kemer area. -
How long does this private vehicle package usually take?
This is a 2-day road-linked package and the current duration setting is about 25 hours across the two-day structure, combining the outbound road journey, overnight stay, full sightseeing day and return route. -
Are entrance fees included in the base private package?
No. In the base private package structure, entrance fees are not included unless a separately selected option clearly says otherwise. -
Which pickup areas are available for this package?
The physical departure is Kemer and there is also active pickup coverage from Beldibi, Camyuva and Tekirova. Pickup-area changes may slightly affect final route flow because of road-transfer logistics. -
Does the package include planned road meal or comfort stops?
Yes. The current route structure includes a breakfast break and lunch break on the outbound road day, a lunch stop during the sightseeing day and a dinner break on the return route. -
What is the entrance fee for House of Virgin Mary on this tour?
The current entrance fee is shown with the latest linked fee data. In the base private package structure, that entrance fee is not included and is paid separately unless your selected option states otherwise. House of Virgin Mary entry fee is €13.5. -
What is the entrance fee for Ephesus Ancient City on this tour?
The current entrance fee is shown with the latest linked fee data. In the base private package structure, that entrance fee is not included and is paid separately unless your selected option states otherwise. Ephesus Ancient City entry fee is €40. -
What is the entrance fee for Terrace Houses on this tour?
The current entrance fee is shown with the latest linked fee data. In the base private package structure, that entrance fee is not included and is paid separately unless your selected option states otherwise. Terrace Houses of Ephesus entry fee is €15. -
What is the entrance fee for St. John Basilica on this tour?
The current entrance fee is shown with the latest linked fee data. In the base private package structure, that entrance fee is not included and is paid separately unless your selected option states otherwise. St. John Basilica entry fee is €6.
General FAQs
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Is Ephesus a good shore excursion from Kusadasi port?
Yes. Ephesus is one of the most popular and efficient day trips from Kusadasi.
- The drive is usually short compared to many other ports.
- We plan the route around your ship timing and keep a safe return buffer.
- Early starts help avoid heat and heavy crowds in peak season.
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How do cruise shore excursions work (meeting point and return time)?
Shore excursions are built around your ships docking schedule.
- We confirm a clear meeting point close to the port exit.
- We recommend a comfortable buffer before all-aboard time.
- If your ship uses tender boats, allow extra time and tell us your tender details.
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Where is Ephesus located and what is it close to?
Ephesus is an ancient city near Selcuk on Turkeys Aegean coast.
- The closest main cruise port town is Kusadasi.
- Izmir is the nearest major city and transport hub.
- Many day tours combine Ephesus with nearby stops based on your available time.
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Can I visit Ephesus from Izmir port in one day?
Yes, but it is a longer drive than from Kusadasi.
- Timing must be planned carefully to avoid rushing.
- If your port stay is short, we may recommend an Izmir-focused program instead.
- Share your ship schedule and we will suggest the most realistic plan.
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What are the must-see highlights inside Ephesus?
Ephesus is a large open-air archaeological site with world-famous monuments.
- Library of Celsus and Curetes Street.
- Great Theatre and main marble streets.
- Key public areas such as agoras, baths, and temples depending on route and time.
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Should I add the Terrace Houses in Ephesus?
The Terrace Houses offer a closer look at Roman-era homes, mosaics, and frescoes.
- This visit usually requires extra time and is often a separate ticket.
- If you love details, art, and interiors, it is a great upgrade.
- For cruise days with limited time, we can advise if it fits comfortably.
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How much walking is there at Ephesus?
Ephesus involves a lot of walking on stone surfaces and open paths.
- Paths can be uneven and can feel slippery when wet.
- There are gentle slopes and limited shade in some areas.
- If you have mobility concerns, tell us and we can suggest the best route or alternatives.
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What should I wear for an Ephesus tour?
Comfort and sun protection make a big difference.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen in warm months.
- Carry water, especially in summer and on cruise days.
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When is the best time to visit Ephesus?
Ephesus can be visited year-round, but the experience changes by season.
- Spring and autumn are comfortable for long outdoor visits.
- Summer is hotter and busier, so early starts are recommended.
- Winter has fewer crowds but cooler weather and occasional rain.
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Is Ephesus crowded and how do we avoid peak crowds?
Ephesus is very popular, especially in summer and on cruise days.
- Starting early is the best way to reduce crowds and heat.
- We can adjust stop order based on ship traffic and site flow.
- Weekends and holidays can be busier.
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Do I need to buy Ephesus tickets in advance?
In peak season, planning helps avoid delays, but rules can change.
- Some areas may have separate tickets.
- Starting early is often more important than pre-buying.
- On guided tours, we plan entry timing to keep the day smooth.
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Should I add the House of Virgin Mary to my tour?
It is a meaningful stop for many visitors and can be added based on timing.
- It is a short drive from Ephesus.
- It can be busier at certain times, so we plan the order carefully.
- If your cruise time is limited, we will suggest a realistic priority list.
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Is Sirince village worth visiting from Ephesus?
Sirince is a small hillside village near Selcuk and is often added for variety.
- It is popular for its relaxed atmosphere, small cafes, and local products.
- It works well if you want something beyond ruins.
- We add it only when it fits safely with your return schedule.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pamukkale in one day?
It is usually too long for a comfortable day, especially for cruise schedules.
- Pamukkale is a longer drive and needs more time on site.
- For a better experience, consider an overnight plan.
- If you share your exact timing, we can advise what is realistic.
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Can I combine Ephesus with Pergamon on the same day?
It is usually not recommended for a single day from Kusadasi.
- Pergamon is closer to Izmir than to Kusadasi.
- Doing both can feel rushed and increases return-time risk.
- If you have extra days, plan them on separate days for a better experience.
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What if my ship docks late or departs earlier than planned?
Ship schedules can change, and we plan with buffer time.
- If you receive an updated schedule, message us immediately.
- We can shorten or adjust the route while keeping key highlights.
- Our priority is always a safe, on-time return to port.
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Private tour or group tour: what is better for Ephesus?
For cruise travelers, private tours are often the most comfortable option.
- Private tours allow flexible pace, timing, and photo stops.
- Group tours can be good value, but timing is less flexible.
- We can recommend the best option based on your ship schedule and preferences.
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Is Ephesus suitable for seniors or limited mobility?
It depends on comfort level, as the site is large and mostly outdoors.
- There are uneven stones and some slopes.
- We can select a route that reduces walking where possible.
- Please tell us about mobility needs in advance so we can plan correctly.
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Do I need a visa to visit Turkey?
Visa requirements depend on your passport and may change.
- Please check the latest official entry rules for your nationality before travel.
- Many visitors use an e-Visa when eligible for short tourist stays.
- If you share your passport country, we can guide you to the correct official source to verify.
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What currency is used in Turkey?
Turkey uses the Turkish Lira (TRY).
- ATMs are common in Kusadasi, Selcuk, and Izmir.
- Cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for small purchases and tips.
- Keep small bills for convenience.
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Are credit cards accepted in Kusadasi and around Ephesus?
Cards are accepted in many restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- Small vendors and some taxis may prefer cash.
- For markets and quick purchases, cash is helpful.
- Keep a backup payment option, especially on busy port days.
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Is tap water safe to drink in Turkey?
Many travelers prefer bottled water.
- Bottled water is easy to find and inexpensive.
- If you have a sensitive stomach, avoid ice in unknown places.
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Is tipping common in Turkey?
Tipping is common and appreciated for good service.
- Restaurants: rounding up or leaving a small amount is typical.
- Guides and drivers: optional and based on service quality.
- Carry small notes for convenience.
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What plug type and voltage are used in Turkey?
Turkey typically uses Type C and Type F plugs (220V, 50Hz).
- Bring an adapter if your plug type is different.
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How can I get a SIM or eSIM in Turkey?
SIM and eSIM options are available from major operators.
- Official stores usually require passport registration.
- If you only need data, compare short-term packages.
- Download offline maps if you plan to explore independently.
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Do Ephesus and museums have closure days or seasonal hours?
Opening hours can change by season and some venues may have weekly closure days.
- Public holidays can also affect schedules.
- Some venues have different winter and summer hours.
- We plan visits based on current opening information.
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Can I take photos inside Ephesus and museums?
Photography rules vary by venue.
- Outdoor ruins usually allow photos.
- Some museums restrict flash or photography in certain areas.
- Always follow posted rules and staff instructions.
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What is ship time vs local time and why does it matter?
Some cruise ships keep ship time different from local Turkey time.
- Always confirm whether your port schedule is in ship time or local time.
- Tell us what your cruise line uses so we plan pickups correctly.
- This helps avoid confusion on meeting points and return timing.
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Is Turkey safe for cruise travelers and day tour guests?
Tourist areas like Kusadasi and major sites are used to international visitors.
- Use normal precautions in crowded places near the port and markets.
- Stick to licensed transport and agreed meeting points.
- Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying unnecessary cash.
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What can I do in Kusadasi if I skip Ephesus?
If you prefer a lighter day, there are good alternatives.
- Explore Kusadasi town and waterfront.
- Consider local food stops and shopping areas.
- We can suggest a shorter cultural route depending on your time in port.
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Should I carry my passport during port days?
We recommend keeping your passport safely on the ship or at your accommodation and carrying a copy if needed.
- A phone photo plus a printed copy is usually enough for day trips.
- For buying a SIM, you may need the original passport at the store.
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What is the emergency number in Turkey?
Dial 112 for emergencies (medical, police, fire, and urgent situations).
- If you are on a guided day, inform your guide so we can help quickly.
Good to Know
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Two-day private road-package structure
This package combines a long outbound road journey, overnight stay and a private Ephesus sightseeing day, so guests should expect a tightly coordinated 2-day overland travel structure. -
Walking conditions at the sites
Ephesus, Terrace Houses and St. John Basilica include stone paths, slopes and uneven archaeological surfaces, so supportive walking shoes are strongly recommended. -
Road timing matters
Because the route depends on pickup timing, long-distance road travel and hotel coordination, guests should re-check their final meeting details carefully before departure. -
Overnight planning
Because the package includes hotel accommodation near the Ephesus region, guests should keep overnight essentials easy to access during the route. -
Base private cost planning
The base private package setup should be reviewed carefully for items such as entrance fees, because private packages do not automatically follow the same inclusion model as group tours.
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