A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bordeaux vs. Cairngorms National Park for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a tranquil, remote, and beautiful national park. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Bordeaux and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bordeaux. Although Bordeaux and Cairngorms National Park are both popular with visitors, Bordeaux has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bordeaux is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cairngorms National Park is known for its hiking. Bordeaux is more touristy than Cairngorms National Park and is popular for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. It is also home to Cathédrale Saint-André. Cairngorms National Park is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains.

How is Bordeaux different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park and Bordeaux. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux is renowned for its restaurants. Also, Cairngorms National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Bordeaux has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Cairngorms National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Bordeaux. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park Better for its Old Town?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.

Bordeaux has an old town worth visiting. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Cairngorms National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Bordeaux is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bordeaux. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.


Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Bordeaux and Cairngorms National Park make for a great place to visit.

Couples visit Bordeaux frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Cairngorms National Park is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux and Cairngorms National Park are good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bordeaux. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Cairngorms National Park is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park Better for Students?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.

Bordeaux is very popular with students. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Cairngorms National Park is not popular with students.


Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Bordeaux offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.

Is Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Bordeaux
Cairngorms National Park

Bordeaux is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Bordeaux is a very walkable destination. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Bordeaux Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Bordeaux has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bordeaux than Cairngorms National Park. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bordeaux, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Couples should spend more time in Bordeaux than Cairngorms National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bordeaux that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bordeaux than Cairngorms National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bordeaux.


  • How many days in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bordeaux 2-5 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

With food and shopping around the romantic city of Bordeaux, there's plenty to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The beautiful national park of Cairngorms National Park offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

With shopping and museums around the charming destination of Bordeaux, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

With museums and nightlife around the charming city of Bordeaux, there's plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days here is typical. One of the main draws to the area is the food. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cairngorms National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

Bordeaux is a great place to explore. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Edinburgh, and The Best 2-Week Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Bordeaux?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bordeaux is €118, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is €139. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bordeaux and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bordeaux 63
    Cairngorms National Park 65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bordeaux 126
    Cairngorms National Park 130
Compare Hotels in Bordeaux and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bordeaux


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bordeaux Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bordeaux 15
    Cairngorms National Park 62

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bordeaux

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bordeaux:

  • Transfer Airport, Hotel, Station and others places: $96
  • Private Transfer from Bordeaux Airport to City of Bordeaux: $87
  • Private Transfer from Airport to Bordeaux City: $165
  • Private Transfer Bordeaux City to Bordeaux Airport BOD by Car: $97
  • Departure Private Transfers : Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Premium Class: $147
  • Bordeaux to Airport Private Transfer in Business Sedan: $108
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux to Bordeaux Airport BOD in Luxury Van: $108
  • Bordeaux Airport Transfers: Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux in Business Car: $103
  • Arrival Private Transfer Bordeaux Airport BOD to Bordeaux by Van: $115
  • Airport to Lège-Cap-Ferret Transfer in Business Sedan: $273

Is it cheaper to fly into Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Bordeaux change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bordeaux 45
    Cairngorms National Park 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bordeaux

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bordeaux.

  • No Diet Club : Bordeaux Food Tour in Les Chartrons !: $63
  • Bordeaux - sweet food tour of the old city: $63
  • NO DIET CLUB - Unique food tour in Bordeaux !: $64
  • 2-Hour River Dinner Cruise: $74
  • Sweet Specialties Tasting Bakeries Food Tour: $82
  • Bordeaux : Afternoon Food Tour by a local guide: $84
  • Bordeaux Organic Food Tour - French Apéro Style: $93
  • Bordeaux : unforgettable Food Tour by a local guide: $95
  • Private Bakery, Chocolate & Patisserie Food Tour: $95
  • Food Tour in Bordeaux : $97
  • Bordeaux Food Tour - Bakeries, Pastries, Chocolate and more!: $98
  • Bordeaux Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $103

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bordeaux 7.89
    Cairngorms National Park 31

Tours and Activities in Bordeaux

Here are a few actual costs in Bordeaux for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • "Bordeaux by bicycle: a 3-hour tour immersive experience": $39
  • "Explore Saint-Émilion on e-Bikes: Small Group, Full-Day Tour": $196
  • 1-Hour Bordeaux Electric Scooter Tour: $27
  • 2 hours - Bordeaux Private tour with a native guide: $164
  • 4 Hours Gastronomic Tour in Bordeaux the Sandwiches of the World: $64
  • Aperitive guided cruise « Wine and Canelé »: $20
  • Blind Tasting: 5 Bordeaux Natural Wine + Cheese experience: $53
  • Bordeaux - Private Historic Walking Tour: $459
  • Bordeaux : Discovery Stroll and Reading Walking Tour: $2.13
  • Bordeaux : Must-See Attractions Walking Tour: $75
  • Bordeaux Bike Tour - Private: $217
  • Bordeaux Christmas Market Tour: $307

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bordeaux 26
    Cairngorms National Park 9.83

Sample the Local Flavors in Bordeaux

Also in Bordeaux, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine and Trade Museum Entry Ticket & Wine Tasting: $11
  • Bordeaux Wine and Trade Museum Admission Ticket with Wine Tasting: $11
  • Distillery Tour in Bordeaux with Spirits Tasting: $16
  • Wine Tasting Cruise: $22
  • Cité du Vin Direct Ticket and Wine Tasting: $24
  • Bordeaux Pub Crawl: $25
  • Taillan-Médoc: Château Visit and Wine Tasting in Bordeaux: $27
  • Wine Tour and Tasting: $29
  • Unusual Wine Tasting Experience - Wood & Wine: $30
  • Discover Bordeaux vineyard : special wine tasting with two cellar men brothers: $32
  • Wine Country Vineyards Tour w/ Local Wine Tastings: $59
  • Bordeaux Vineyards Wine Tasting Half-Day Trip: $62


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bordeaux and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park is more expensive. And not only is Bordeaux much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bordeaux would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bordeaux and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cairngorms National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cairngorms National Park than you might in Bordeaux.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bordeaux Expensive? and Is Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Cairngorms National Park. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bordeaux is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bordeaux in July average around 21°C (69°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In the summer, Bordeaux often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bordeaux 21°C (69°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Cairngorms National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Bordeaux is generally much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 14°C (58°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bordeaux 14°C (58°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Bordeaux during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bordeaux in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Cairngorms National Park can be very cold during winter. Bordeaux is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 6°C (43°F) in January, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Bordeaux often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. Bordeaux usually gets more rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bordeaux 6°C (43°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Bordeaux or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Cairngorms National Park. Most visitors come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Bordeaux is much warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bordeaux in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Bordeaux usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bordeaux 12°C (53°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Bordeaux

Bordeaux Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 9°C (48°F) 76 mm (3 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 20°C (68°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 14°C (58°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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