Summer 2024 AT Magazine : simplebooklet.com

Punctualairlines0506AuthenticExperiences0848 hours inParis 09Nervous abouttravel?Why is a holiday important?02Inthisissueto see Di’s accessible Vietnam holiday0141 406 1 821info@altogethertravel.co.ukAltogether Travel, 77 RenfrewStreet, Glasgow G2 3BZwww.altogethertravel.co.ukContact usAccording to the World Health Organization 2023, about 16% ofthe global population currently experience significant disability.A person-centred approach (such as Universal Design) improvesexperiences across the population, accommodating a widerange of individual preferences and abilities.Our flagship issue brings to you accessible travel across manyareas – to inspire, inform and showcase positive experiences.If you have any suggestions, questions or topics you’d like us tocheck out, please do let us know. We want to include what isimportant to you, and help make your holiday dreams a reality.01Check out page04 Best Accessible beachesin the world06Creating Adventure0141 406 1 821info@altogethertravel.co.ukAltogether Travel, 77 RenfrewStreet, Glasgow G2 3BZwww.altogethertravel.co.uk01Contact us0848 hours inNew York09UK & IrelandRoadtrips02InthisissueOur summer issue brings to you accessible travel across many areas– to inspire, inform and showcase positive experiences.If you have any suggestions, questions or topics you’d like us to checkout, please do let us know. We want to include what is important to you,and help make your holiday dreams a reality.With 12 million people in the UK with a disability (or 1 in 5), failing to provideaccessibility is the equivalent of excluding the combined populations ofthese major UK cities - London, Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield, Cardiff andManchester. The World Health Organization highlights 1.3 billion peopleexperience significant disability, and so accessibility is not only a humanright - here is an opportunity for destinations to embrace all visitors andenhance what is offered for peoples’ experience while visiting.for our cruise special edition, Check out pagesfeaturing Ken from Traveling With A Chair, tips & more.0305to

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What are the benefitsof a holiday?1Why should I go on a supported holiday?3Some people get in touch with us who haven’t been on holiday for over10 years, or didn’t feel they would be able to travel outside the UK.Others have lost confidence with a loved one passing away and didn’tfeel up to going somewhere new, or aren’t able to leave home for a fewdays without support. This is when Altogether Travel can help. Oursupported holidays offer the opportunity for independence, travellingwithout family and encouraging daily living skills. Your HolidayCompanion is with you throughout to socialise with and support you,visiting places you are interested in and relaxing away from home. Why is a holidayimportant?2Why is a holidayimportant?There are many health benefits toa holiday with greater well-being.Your quality of sleep can improveand better mental health with thechance to relax and enjoy newthings, as feeling stressed canimpact memory and mood. Youcan return home feeling morepositive, focused on what isimportant to you and productivewith how you like to spend yourtime. Planning a trip can boostyour happiness with havingsomething to look forward to, andcreativity is inspired by positiveexperiences. A holiday can alsoencourage you to be more activeas you want to exploreattractions and the local area.As well as the health benefits andfeeling more positive, holidaysare fun! It can be exciting goingsomewhere new, experiencingdifferent cultures and tryingdelicious food. There are so manythings that make a holidayimportant, as doing things youenjoy is important to you. If that’shaving your favourite meal with anice view, reading a book in thesunshine, or having a chat withgreat company and watching theworld go by… you name it – yourfavourite things are important.Feeling sand between your toesand an ice cream in hand, visitingan interesting museum or TV tour,singing along at a show orexploring a football stadium.We can help make that happen.02 Creating Adventure02Actively seeking curiositiesleads you to a point of interestTry the art of “curiosity hopping” - really focus on somethingthat catches your attention, either passing by while ontransport, or as you take a stroll through your destination.Spend some time appreciating this first, then this can lead youto “attached branches” that inspires your next move.Some say this gives a structure to follow, still with the idea of“go with the flow” - highlighting coincidences and motivatingyou to go between things that capture your curiosity...Set yourself fun challenges –Get a pack of travel challenge cards (search for theseonline, or make up your own!) to help choose somethingyou can do each day at random. All have achallenge to bring you joy - a great way to exploreany destination of the world. Get to know thelocals and create unique memories, bringinghome stories of your adventures.Whatever it may be -this can create adventure with both what you want to try,and successfully experience what you didn’t want to miss.as simple as finding 3 local flavours of crisps to try,do a ‘photo scavenger hunt’ to keep an eye out forthings during your travels,or enjoy a drink served in a coconut...which you may not notice if your attention is fixed on gettingto the next attraction. Hear faint singing? Follow the sourceand just like that, you’ve discovered the most beautiful squarewith live music.Mapping hidden gems - this could be literally noting on yourdestination map, where to find that wonderful family-ownedcafé with the best food and view of your trip.Things you discover which seemingly receive far lessrecognition than it deserves, in your cherished experience.This goes beyond online reviews and the most popular spots -what stands out for you about a place?

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03ACCESSIBLE TOURSEDINBURGHScotland’s capital and theFestival City, Edinburgh isthe second most populartourist destination in theUK after London.Our most popular city for tours with the majority of overseas visitorsincluding Edinburgh as part of a UK vacation.Highlights include: Calton Hill, Arthurs Seat,Grassmarket, Holyrood, the world famous RoyalMile, Harry Potter and Dean Village.Check out Edinburgh Castle and so much more. 03You don’t have to fly with many departures from Southampton in the UK, and thereare short flight options between the UK and European destinations.You could also fly and spend a few days exploring before cruising on over to moreplaces, all in the same vacation.Diversity of destinations - this relatively small area has variety of cultures, foods,historical landmarks and attractions. In a single cruise, you could experienceseveral countries - the top cruise ports with the most visitors are Barcelona, Romeand Marseille.Most of the year can be enjoyed with a warm, sunny climate - even outside thesummer months (in Spring or Autumn).Known for having something for everyone - with many tours, historical attractions,shopping, cuisines to taste or swapping the deck lounge chairs for the beach...You'll find something, however you wish to spend your time.The most popular worldwide destination is the Caribbean, for many reasons - Closely followed by the Mediterranean - but why is cruising here so popular?You can sail from Miami (and all the way up the coast to New York) - for manypassengers this avoids a flight and gives a much more comfortable way totravel. Beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters, friendly locals, diverse culturesand delicious foods all add to the appeal of the Caribbean - this is definitelythe place for rest and relaxation. You’ll also find activities such as snorkelling,learning about the local crafts and way of life.CRUISING TIPS FROM FIRST-HANDEXPERIENCE WITH OUR CUSTOMERS:Even if you don’t typically use a wheelchairoften, consider bringing one with you to getthe most out of your holiday. The ship itselfis huge and can add up to some distancecovered over the day, also with exploringthe port destinations.Yes it’s much easier when the cruiseship can dock right to the port withramped boarding, but the smaller‘tender’ boat isn’t scary. It may be alittle tricky getting on as it moves withthe water but staff are there to steadyyou with limited mobility, and liftingmanual wheelchairs on/off for youwhenever possible.You inevitably experience some movementwhile on board, even with smooth sailing. It iswise to apply brakes for no unintentionalmoving! “We forgot to put the brakes on atdinner once and rolled away from the table!”Also remember this at night, so your wheelchairstays where you left it before sleeping.CruiseHere at Altogether Travel we can do the research for you, so from the idea to arrivingback home again, your holiday is smooth-sailing! Click here for our Blog, with lots more.companies have been realising demand for accessibility andcontinue to make improvements so ships can do more for you.The Telegraph dives into the many cruise options out there - including whichships have pool lifts available and much more - click here to read on.

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Q&A withthe team“I’d like to think this could inspire otherdisabled people to travel, as sometimesall you need is a bit of support to make adream trip happen. I couldn’t stopsmiling and thanks to Anne mycompanion and Altogether Travel, thisholiday was possible for me” says Di.An exciting trip to Vietnam with an inspirationallady called Di, who uses a mobility scooter toget around, although is able to walk shortdistances. She has a zest for life and has alwayswanted to visit Asia.Airports can be daunting places, especially ifyou have a disability. But with the support of the assistance teams, it was reassuring and prettymuch straight forward on every leg of ourjourney.A chat with Anne, one of ourwonderful Holiday Companions.Our local guide would take us to local places ofinterest and other times we were driven furtherafield. Our itinerary included a ride on arickshaw, a visit to an ethnology museum, a visitto a water puppet show and a day trip to theHalong region. We even took a short flight to HoiAn situated near the east coast - it was nice tobe in a less populated more picturesque areaand we were fortunate to see The LanternFestival. Visiting the plantation fields, we got tosee the local people growing food - followed bya cooking class, tastings and street food tour.By the time we got to the tenth or eleventhvenue (we lost count) we were stuffed! What anincredible experience we had, not only did weget to taste the local cuisine, we got to see themarket stalls and meet the local people.It is so easy to stay safe but unless we take risksin life and step outside of our comfort zone,then you may be missing out on brilliant travelexperiences. Where have you supported someonerecently?What did you get up to?Is there anything you would like tosay to people considering travel?04 Cruising with a Disability04Cruising has become an increasingly popular vacation choice for people withdisabilities. With accessible cabins, accommodating staff, and a wide range ofactivities, cruise ships offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience fortravellers with various needs. Check out their websitewww.travelingwithachair.com & YouTube channelfor lots more online click here)Modern cruise ships aredesigned withaccessibility in mind,featuring, accessible cabinsequipped with roll-in showersand grab bars - also widecorridors and elevators.Why Cruising is aGreat Option:123Cruise ships offer a diverse range ofactivities, from live entertainment anddining options to swimming pools, manyof which are accessible to passengerswith disabilities.With cruising, you can visit multipledestinations without the hassle of flightsor arranging accommodations at eachlocation.A step-by-step Guide1 - Book early as accessible cabins often sell out quickly. It's essential to bookyour cruise as early as possible to secure suitable accommodations.2 - Many cruise lines require passengers with disabilities to complete anadditional needs form. It’s important to complete and return this promptly, toensure your requirements are met.3 - As soon as the booking window for shore excursions opens, reserve yourspot on the trips that interest you. If you don’t book through the cruise, alwaysmake sure that the excursion will have you back to the port at least 2 hoursbefore sailing to avoid any last-minute stress or missed departures.In this article, Ken from ‘TravelingWith A Chair’ explores thebenefits of disabled cruisingalong with a step-by-step guide:

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PODCASTBBC Podcast Business Dailydiscusses how can tourismbecome more accessible,with people who want tomake travel a betterexperience for tourists withdisabilities. Featuring theManaging Director of ENAT- European Network forAccessible Tourism.05Lonely Planet offers free Accessible Travel OnlineResources, which has almost doubled in contentcompared with the last edition (updated annually)– just enter your details and a PDF download linkwill be emailed to you. Online readers click here orcheck out Lonely Planet’s website.We are proud to be featured inthis incredible resource (see page 153)PUNCTUAL AIRLINESFlight delays are unpredictable and put a hold on yourholiday fun or journey home. What if you chose anairline that is more likely to be on time? Cirium is theworld’s most trusted source of aviation analytics. Its15th annual report has been released, ranking themost punctual airlines and airports of 2023.In Europe, the most punctual airlines include Iberia(also ranked fifth globally), Austrian Airlines andNorwegian Air Shuttle. Some top airports to considerare Philadelphia International Airport, Oslo Airport andNashville International Airport.The 2023 Euan's Guide AccessSurvey results are published!PDF, large print, audio describedand easy read results availablewww.euansguide.com/get-involved/access-survey/The majority of respondents saidreviews from other disabledpeople improve their confidencewhen visiting new places.SURVEY RESULTSLonley Planet’s AccessibleTravel Phrasebook,covering 35 languages -Download the PDF from theirwebsite for your copy.Online readers can click here.FREEACCESSIBLEPHRASEBOOKMOST ACCESSIBLECAPITAL CITIESIglu Cruise revealed the Top 10 in Europe:6. Dublin7. Vienna8. Reykjavik9. Madrid10. Rome1. London2. Paris3. Amsterdam4. Bern5. Oslo 05With more than 2000 ports of callworldwide, you can visit so many differentplaces on a cruise.There is approximately 1 crew member forevery 3 passengers on board - manyworking behind the scenes to help yourdream vacation perfect.Around 60% of passengers onboard havebeen on a cruise before.It is important to remember thatcruise staff are trained to behelpful, and there will be a medicalteam on board - but they areunable to provide care support.If you require support with dailyliving tasks and are interested in aHoliday Companion for your cruise,please get in touch with us.Fun Facts: Cruisesinfo@altogethertravel.co.ukYou can expect top-tier entertainment with a variety of shows to enjoy, in addition tothe many activities to choose from - we think relaxing in the sun is one of the best!Take the time to check out the facilities and explore the many deck areas.4 - Travel with your passport - keep thissafe but with you during excursions, incase of any issues or emergency thatrequires you to fly home from a foreignport. Don’t watch your passport sail awaybecause you left it behind in your cabin.5 - Consider mobility equipment rentals -power wheelchairs are generally moremanoeuvrable and have better groundclearance than scooters, making them abetter choice for navigating the ship andports of call. However if tenders areexpected (stops without a ramp to port)a folding manual wheelchair is ideal.6 - Purchase travel insurance - always buy trip insurance to protect your investmentand ensure you're covered in case of unexpected events. Consider purchasinginsurance from a third-party provider, as they often offer better coverage at a lowercost compared to cruise line policies.Cruising is an excellent vacation option for disabled travellers, offeringaccessibility with a variety of activities. Remember to book early,complete any necessary forms, reserve excursions in advance, considermobility equipment rentals, purchase travel insurance, travel with yourpassport, and arrive early. By following these steps and planningahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruising experience.

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Try searching online the top rated cafes or restaurantsfor your next holiday destination – a bit of researchgives you an idea of places to try and where to findthese in relation to your hotel.The best thing to do is ask the locals – if you’re not themost confident speaking different languages, you canalways ask the hotel staff where might be good to go.You might discover some hidden gems you might notof crossed paths with by exploring without any route inmind. Of course it’s worth visiting the main sights, butby seeking out traditional customs, pass-times andlistening to local music; you’ll discover a whole newworld of markets, parks and more.Authentic TravelExperiencesThe concept of slow travel suggests that spendingmore time in one place leads to a more connectedexperience. This idea encourages taking in yoursurroundings, and really explore a particular area.At the same time, allow yourself to be flexible – if youwant to visit lots of places (especially on day 1)go for it! You could always return somewhere anotherday during your holiday.There’s also ‘switching off from technology’ which canbe great, but still enjoy taking all the photos you want.Create unique memoriesto take home with you.06 06Best Accessiblebeaches in the worldNorth Berwick Beach, ScotlandGreat Yarmouth Beach, NorfolkBrighton Beach, SussexSkegness Beach, LincolnshireBournemouth Beach, DorsetBenone Strand, Northern IrelandSwansea Bay Beach, WalesPaignton Sands, DevonSummerleaze Beach, CornwallBroadhaven Beach - Pembrokeshire, WalesHarlyn Bay, CornwallSandbanks Beach, DorsetRoseisle Forest, ScotlandPoppit Sands, WalesSaunton Sands, DevonCape Cod, Massachusetts USAHanauma Bay, HawaiiMiami Beach, Florida USACancun, MexicoPattaya Beach, ThailandBondi Beach, AustraliaMission Beach, California USAUmag, CroatiaNova Icària Beach - Barcelona, SpainTorre Guaceto Beach, ItalySirens Resort Beach, GreeceBarceloneta Beach, SpainVari Beach - Syros, GreeceAgia Triada Beach, CyprusValentino Beach Club, ItalyPlaya de las Vistas - Tenerife, SpainPublic beach accessibility is on the rise. One way is by using Mobi Mats,which are portable roll out pathways that make the beach easier tonavigate. There are also beach wheelchairs that have larger wheels toeasily roll across the sand without sinking. Boardwalks or wooden deckingcan also be extended out to shallow waters. Another is Mobi chairs whichcombine the large wheels of a beach wheelchair with a lighter frame andfloatation device.Before you arrive it’s best to check what options are available at yourbeach destination. You can also ask about distances, parking and if thereare any hire charges to use accessible equipment.Where can I get the most with my holiday money?The best value destinations worldwide for 2024 click heresurveyed by Post Office researchers - what a job!We shine a light on some to visit in the UK, Europe and Worldwide -United KingdomEuropeWorldwide

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48 hoursinP RISD A Y O N E 01Explore the charm of Le Marais with France’s oldest covered food market (Marche desEnfants Rouge). It’s packed so you’ll have your pick of the best – a great start to fuel youradventures! Take a stroll through the medieval courtyards and pretty streets of Le Marais,making time for the Jardin des Archive Nationales (museum gardens) which is on your wayto the Centre Pompidou (filled with modern art).- M o r n i n gD A Y T W O 06Experience the world's most iconic cabaret. Let’s wrap things up with a ‘can-can’ at theMoulin Rouge. You can’t miss the red windmill, lit up like a beacon as you enter the Pigalledistrict. Be sure to dine like the French and try more delicious local cuisine beforereturning home.- E v e n i n gD A Y T W O 05Shop at Paris' finest stores. On Boulevard Haussmann, discover 2 of Paris’ finestdepartment stores (Galeries Lafayette and Printemps). The stained-glass domes in bothare reason enough to visit, and exploring the buildings comes without the hefty price tagof most items sold. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, veer away from this street’s fancyrestaurants for a local hot spot.- A f t e r n o o nD A Y O N E 02Visit the world’s largest museum. Arrive at the Louvre Museum and be greeted by theiconic glass pyramids with about 10 miles of galleries inside. See a different perspectiveof these pyramids from below in the underground Carrousel du Louvre shopping centre(its entrances are by the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, in front of the Louvre). On a sunnyday why not relax in the nearby Tuileries Garden – the perfect spot for a picnic.- A f t e r n o o nD A Y O N E 03View the city from the Seine (Paris’s main waterway) either from the charming promenadealong its banks, or rest with a guided boat tour. Finally, enjoy breathtaking sights from theglittering Eiffel Tower - it’s wonderful at any time, but after sunset it is lit up on the hourand it’s less crowded (especially during the week). For a luxury dining experience, take theexpress elevator to Madame Brasserie on the Eiffel Tower’s first floor.- E v e n i n gD A Y T W O 04Stand tall on the Arc de Triomphe. Begin your second day with a trip to the rooftop of theArc de Triomphe, then spend some time enjoying a walk along one of the 12 avenues thesite connects – Avenue des Champs-Élysées. This is the most well-known, lined withdesigner shops, street cafes, and historic buildings to check out for yourself.- M o r n i n gFrance’s capital city is filled with treasures across the worlds ofhistory, art, food and fashion. From the world’s largest museumto dining at top restaurants, there is lots to do when you visit!08 48 hoursinNEW YORKD A Y O N E 01See the Statue of Liberty in person, best from a cruise to view this global symbol of theAmerican Dream while learning its history and other landmarks, like the Brooklyn Bridgeand Ellis Island. Next, pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum - with thereflecting pools located at the exact site of the former Twin Towers, recognising thepeople of this pivotal moment in history.- M o r n i n gD A Y T W O 06Twirl through the dazzling Times Square, home of New York's theatre district.Catch a Broadway show at one of its 41 theatres. You can absolutely get ticketson the day, unless you prefer to secure the best seats in the house.- E v e n i n gD A Y T W O 05If you can tear yourself away, check out Fifth Avenue (New York’s most famous shoppingstreet) and people watch at Grand Central Terminal. Hail a yellow taxi cab (and at leasttake a short journey to keep the local drivers happy) and head to one of New York’sindoor food markets. These are flourishing with one to be found in most areas for a tasteof it all, in a city with an abundance of foods to try. Near Hudson River Park, Pier 57 is afood hall spotlighting culinary independents. From here, stroll south to Manhattan’s firstbeach, created with a long strip of sand at Gansevoort Peninsula’s 5.5 acres.- A f t e r n o o nD A Y O N E 02Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to explore Brooklyn’s art galleries, theatres andeateries, giving the neighbourhood a unique charm. Discover the subway over todowntown Manhattan for trendy SoHo with cast-iron architecture, chic boutiques,before continuing on to Greenwich Village with quiet, tree-lined streets.You’ll probably recognise 17 Grove Street (the apartment building featured in Friends).- A f t e r n o o nD A Y O N E 03Walk the High Line with a former elevated railway track transformed into a 1.5-milelinear urban park. Be surrounded by gorgeous gardens plus contrasting modern andcentury-old architecture the whole way, to sunset views of the city.To get the skyline view, check out Rockefeller Center’s Top of the Rock to appreciatesights from a ‘gallery’ perspective, and an audio-visual lift to experience real heights.Recreate that iconic photo ‘sitting on a steel beam’ with the interactive visitorexperience. There is also the classic Empire State Building with its outdoor viewing deck,or add dining with the One World Observatory’s restaurant.- E v e n i n gD A Y T W O 04Let’s set the scene at Central Park, a green oasis within the bustling city world. Youcould easily spend a full day here with over 800 acres (larger than Monaco). Take yourpick from a stroll, bike ride, rowboat or gondola. Popular favourites include CentralPark Zoo, or a movie-themed tour with over 40 instantly recognisable locations.- M o r n i n g08

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Organising a holiday mightfeel overwhelming at first, buta change from your dailyroutine can benefit howyou’re feeling, and can helpyou get a break from dailystresses. The sense ofachievement you can feelfrom going somewhere newcan bring so much joy, withfriendly conversations,exploring things you areinterested in and makinghappy holiday memories. Alist can help with packing.Let us know if there is anything you’re worried aboutor not looking forward to on holiday, and what youare looking forward to doing most.A dream holiday in Spain might sound nice, but theidea of flights or a week away could feel too much.We could look into a shorter holiday near home atfirst, as this might be best for still being local, andcar hire can avoid public transport.Then when you feel more comfortable, next time youcould go for a longer holiday or try a train journey totravel further. After this you might like to try a newmethod of transport like a ferry after doing a shortsightseeing cruise.With deciding what you would like down the line, wecan put together options that give stepping stonesto reach your goal.We have supported people to enjoy day trips andconcerts, if you would prefer to return home againat first - or maybe start off with an overnight hotelso you know you’ll be back home again soon.Not sure if you’re ready togo on holiday? That’s okay.We understand you need tofeel comfortable aboutleaving home and we’rehappy to answer anyquestions you may have.Nervous abouttravelling?090141 406 1 821info@altogethertravel.co.ukAltogether Travel, 77 RenfrewStreet, Glasgow G2 3BZwww.altogethertravel.co.ukContact us 09DUBLINBELFASTLONDONGLASGOWEDINBURGHINVERNESSMANCHESTERYORKLIVERPOOLSOUTHAMPTONYour interests and ideas shape a tailor-made itinerary allabout you. From the moment you arrive, met by our localdrivers getting you where you want to go in comfort - witha variety of wheelchair-accessible vehicle options. Theitinerary is flexibile, and if you want to spend more time atsome locations, or break up the journeys between withvisits to sites and attractions - we can make it happen.0141 406 1 821info@altogethertravel.co.ukAltogether Travel, 77 RenfrewStreet, Glasgow G2 3BZwww.altogethertravel.co.ukEngland - London, Devon,Cornwall, Norfolk, Oxford and theCotswolds, York, Southampton(with cruise departures) andmany cities such as Birmingham,Liverpool, and Manchester.Another summer of road tripsacross the UK and IrelandWhen you have a long international flight, it’s great to see various parts of the UKduring your vacation - and there is certainly lots to see. We can arrange tickets,tours and accessible transport by road or rail. There are also a number of flightoptions from London or throughout the UK, including connections to Dublin.Get in touch with any places of interest, and we can work out the rest.Scotland - Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeenand Inverness- plus popular holidaydestinations such as Aviemore,Oban and Pitlochry.Ireland - highlights such asDonegal, Galway,Limerick, and Dublin.Northern Ireland - withBelfast and Londonderry.Contact usIf you also require care support duringyour vacation - our friendly Companionsare all experienced carers, who love totr avel and meet new people.Registered

Summer 2024 AT Magazine

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