Best places to visit in Egypt

Egypt has very rich history and culture and it offers a wide array of attractions for visitors. Here are some of the best places to visit in Egypt, each with its unique appeal:

The Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx

: your visit to Egypt will not be completed without seeing the Great Pyramids and the Sphinx. These ancient wonders of the world are situated on the Giza Plateau, near Cairo, dates back to over 4,500 years old. The largest, the Great Pyramid of Khufu (Cheops), is one of the most impressive human-made structures in history.

tips for visiting Egypt

Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings

: Luxor, often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, contains the vast temple complex of Karnak, which was the most important place of worship in ancient Egypt. Nearby, on the West Bank of the Nile, lies the Valley of the Kings where tombs of the pharaohs, including that of Tutankhamun, were discovered.

Abu Simbel

: It is supposed to be one of the wonders of the world which is an archaeological site comprising two massive rock temples in southern Egypt, near the border with Sudan. They were built by Pharaoh Ramses II, and the entire complex was relocated to its current position to save it from flooding after the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

abu simble temple

Egyptian Museum in Cairo

: Housing the world’s most extensive collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including the golden treasures of Tutankhamun and other pharaohs, the Egyptian Museum in Cairo is a treasure trove of artifacts and an essential stop for any history enthusiast.

Philae Temple in Aswan :

Aswan is a tranquil Nile Valley destination with beautiful scenery, a pleasant climate, and a relaxed atmosphere. The Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, is a picturesque site located on an island in the Nile River, which was also relocated due to the Aswan Dam construction.

Alexandria

:Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria was once one of the most important cities in the ancient world and it was the capital of Egypt for almost 1000 years , Visitors can explore its Greco-Roman landmarks, including the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, the Pompey’s Pillar, and the new Alexandria Library, a homage to the ancient library of Alexandria.

alexandria

Siwa Oasis : Siwa Oasis is one of Egypt’s most isolated settlements, with a unique culture and a stunning natural environment. It is famous for its ancient mud-built fortresses, the Temple of the Oracle where Alexander the Great was declared the son of Zeus, and its beautiful salt lakes.

Dahab and the Red Sea : A former Bedouin fishing village, Dahab is now known for its relaxed, laid-back atmosphere and is a popular spot for watersports, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The Red Sea’s warm water is home to diverse and colorful marine life and some of the best coral reefs in the world.

The White Desert : This surreal, otherworldly landscape is located in the Western Desert. The White Desert National Park is known for its startlingly white rock formations that have been created by wind erosion. The landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset, looks like something from another planet.

3 days trip to white desert from cairo

Islamic Cairo : The historic center of Cairo is filled with mosques, madrassas, hamams, and castels dating from the medival era. It’s also home to one of the oldest markets in the Middle East, the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, where visitors can shop for souvenirs and experience the bustling local culture.

Sinai : Sinai has one of the most special and nice desert and landscape on earth , there you can enjoy climbing special mountains like Moses mountain and do camping and relax by the coast of the red sea , the place there has great and stunning mix of cost , mountains , Bedouin camps and oasis.

desert of egypt

These are just a few of the many incredible sites to visit in Egypt. Each offers a glimpse into the country’s long history and provides opportunities for cultural enrichment and adventure.

If you willing one day to go to Egypt and enjoy some of this stunning places you can check this link here for special deals and full packages tours

Wrttien by ATW June 2024 .

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Social life in ancient Egypt

Ancient Egyptians placed great importance on their social lives, with their close-knit communities and vibrant cultural traditions.Society in ancient Egypt was divided into strict classes as Pharaohs were on top and slave laborers were at the bottom and In between were the nobility, priests, scribes, skilled craftsmen, and farmers.

Family Life in old Egypt

: ancient Egyptian had very strong family life as for Marriages were typically arranged by families and often took place between cousins to keep wealth within the family.

Public Events and Festivals in old Egypt:

Egyptians loved celebrations and would often come together for religious festivals, which were marked with processions, music, dance, feasting, and offerings to the gods. Celebrations like the ‘Sed Festival’ marked the 30th year of the pharaoh’s rule.

Religion and Temples: ancient Egyptians had almost 2000 gods that why religious ceremonies were integral to Egyptian life. The temples were centers of both religious practice and social activity. Many people visited temples not just to worship, but also to seek advice, receive medical treatment, and partake in community events.

religion in old Egypt

Art and Literature in old Egypt:

Egyptians expressed their social life through art and literature. Wall murals in tombs depicted day-to-day life, banquets, farming, hunting, and fishing scenes. Literature and poetry often focused on themes of love, humor, and everyday life.

The Role of Women: Women in ancient Egypt had a higher status and greater legal rights than women in many other contemporary cultures. They could own property, run businesses, and enter professions like weaving or music.

women in old egypt

Clothing and Fashion: Social status and profession were reflected in clothing. Nobles wore elaborate, finely woven linen clothes and characteristic ‘cone’ perfumes on their heads for banquets, while farmers wore simpler sheath dresses or loincloths.

Makeup and cosmatic : Lades in ancient Egypt carried so much about thier beauty and it was very familliar to use cosmatic and makeup like eye liner , wigs , eye shadow , jewellery , combs and perfums .

makeup in old Egypt

Food and Banquets: Diet was heavily reliant on agriculture with a staple diet of bread and beer. The wealthy enjoyed more diverse cuisines including meat, fish, fruits, and honey. Banquets were occasions for social gathering, marked by opulence for the elite, with tables laden with delicacies.

Trade and Commerce in old Egypt:

Marketplaces in cities and along the Nile were bustling hubs of social activity where Egyptians interacted regularly, exchanging goods like papyrus, textiles, grains, and crafts.

Leisure Activities: The Nile River offered opportunities for leisure activities like hunting, fishing, and boating. They also had board games such as ‘Senet’ and ‘Mehen,’ enjoyed by all classes.

Overall, social life in ancient Egypt was very rich and special, with each class adhering to a system that dictated their roles yet allowed for a vibrant cultural life that became one of the hallmarks of ancient Egyptian civilization.

Written by ATW Jun 2024

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ATW ( Axa Tours Writers )

ATW:

A Collective of Passionate Historians and Writers Shaping Cultural Narratives

For nearly a decade, the Axa Tours Writers, better known by their acronym ATW, have been at the forefront of historical, cultural, and traditional narration. This dynamic group of professional writers is not only defined by their expertise and academic background in history but also their profound passion for the cultures and traditions that have shaped and continue to shape societies globally.

ATW began as a gathering of like-minded individuals who recognized the power of writing in disseminating historical knowledge and cultural understanding. With a robust academic foundation and a shared love for past narratives, the group embarked on a journey to create content that does more than just inform; it inspires.

The writers at ATW come from diverse historical disciplines, bringing a collective wealth of knowledge that spans across ancient civilizations, medieval times, modern history, and the contemporary cultural landscape. Their works offer not just facts neatly packed into narratives but also critical analyses that spark discussions and encourage a deeper appreciation for the human journey.

A key to their success has been their approach to writing. ATW has always believed that history should not be confined to textbooks and academic papers alone. Instead, they have harnessed storytelling as a powerful tool to bring the past to life. Through vivid descriptions, captivating storytelling techniques, and meticulous attention to detail, they craft articles and pieces that transport their readers across different eras and geographies.

Their love for culture and tradition is evident in each page they write. Whether it’s exploring the intricate art of ancient Egypt, delving into the festive traditions of medieval Europe, or shedding light on the rich cultural tapestry of the East, ATW’s writers approach each topic with a reverence that’s palpable. They weave together not just the historical context but the human emotions and experiences that resonate with readers from all walks of life.

What truly distinguishes ATW is their goal to make their writing helpful to others. They believe that knowledge about our past empowers us to navigate the present and shape the future. By sharing their insights, they hope to stimulate intellectual curiosity and foster an inclusive community of learners and enthusiasts eager to explore our world’s vast cultural heritage.

Over the years, ATW members have contributed to numerous publications, educational initiatives, and cultural projects, all while maintaining their commitment to engaging and purposeful writing. Their articles serve as keys to understanding the complex puzzle of human civilization and as windows into the soul of societies long gone but never forgotten.

As they continue to grow and evolve, ATW is constantly seeking new ways to connect with their audience and share their passion. With every piece they write, they reaffirm their commitment to a world where history and culture are revered, studied, and most importantly, shared among people of all ages and backgrounds.

In an era where the world is more connected than ever, ATW’s work remains crucial. They continue to remind us that despite our many differences, there is immense value in our collective past. As ATW pens down history, they are not merely recording events; they are crafting a legacy—a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity and its timeless tales.

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Egyptian cuisine

Egyptian cuisin

e is a reflection of the country’s rich history and diverse culture. With influences from the Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and African culinary traditions, Egyptian food is a delicious blend of flavors and ingredients.

here is Some popular Egyptian dishes :

Kushari:

A street food favorite and is great option for vegeterian people , kushari is a mix of rice, lentils, chickpeas, and pasta, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and fried onions.

Ful medames: A staple breakfast dish, ful medames is a hearty bowl of fava beans cooked with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, often served with pita bread,almost all of Egyptians eat it daily as a breakfast dish .

Kebab and kofta:

Grilled skewers of seasoned meat, usually lamb or beef, are a common sight at Egyptian restaurants , it is one of the most delicious meals cooked with spices and souce .

Molokhia:

A traditional soup made from the leaves of the jute plant, molokhia is often flavored with garlic, coriander, and chicken or rabbit , is well known as green soup as well .

Falafel:

Egyptians call it ta’ameya which is very popular street food made from ground fava beans mixed with herbs and spices, and deep-fried until crispy and it is very popular for breakfast in Egypt.

egyptian cuisine

Hawawshi: A savory pastry filled with spiced ground meat, onions, and peppers, hawawshi is a tasty snack or meal , it is very popular take away ( fast food ) in Egypt .

Mahshi:

Mahshi is a family of stuffed veggies that is very popular in Egypt is one of the main platters in Egyptian banquets specially in Ramadan as it is basically veggies stuffed with rice mixture and some times they add meat to it for more delicious taste .

Basbousa: A sweet dessert made from semolina flour, soaked in syrup, and often topped with nuts.

Umm Ali: A rich and creamy bread pudding made with puff pastry, milk, sugar, and nuts.

egyptian food
Egyptian food is often served with a variety of dips and sauces, such as tahini, baba ghanoush, and tzatziki. Bread is also a staple in Egyptian cuisine, with pita bread being the most common.

For those looking to try traditional Egyptian cuisine, it is recommended to visit local markets and street food vendors, as these are often the best places to find authentic and delicious dishes.

Overall, Egyptian cuisine offers a diverse range of flavors and dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try new and exciting flavors, or a tourist wanting to experience the local culture, Egyptian food is not to be missed .

if you you willing to have a great experience while you are in Egypt to try the delicious Egyptian food check this link here

written by ATW JUN 2024

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Advices to enjoy your holiday in Egypt

Egypt is one of the most interesting countries for spending holidays and for traveling but you need to consider some points before going there to get the best of your holiday and avoid any problem ,here is some of this points you need to care about

Plan ahead:

Research and plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your holiday in Egypt. Decide on the places you want to visit and the activities you want to do.

Stay hydrated:

Egypt can get very hot, especially during the summer months, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.

axa tours drinking

Dress appropriately:

Egypt is a Muslim country, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or away from the touristic cities as Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should wear long pants.

Agree about the prices in advance :to avoid any scam better to make every thing clear in adavance agree about the details of the deal and the price . either if you get a taxi , ride a camel , book a tour or a hotel to make it easier and peacful for you .

Try local food:

Egyptian cuisine is delicious and unique. Be sure to try local dishes such as koshary, molokhia, and falafel but avoid the some type of food that could cause stomck problems for you.

Visit during the low season: If possible, try to visit Egypt during the low season (May to September) when there are fewer tourists and prices are lower.

hamata island

Be respectful of local customs: Egyptians are generally very friendly and welcoming to tourists, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Haggle

: Haggling is a way of life in Egypt, and vendors expect it. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, but be respectful and fair.

money in Egypt


Stay safe: Egypt is generally a safe country for tourists, but it’s always important to stay vigilant and take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid traveling alone at night, and keep your valuables secure.

Book a guide

: If you want to get the most out of your holiday in Egypt, consider booking a guide. A knowledgeable guide can provide insights into the history and culture of Egypt, and can help you navigate the country’s complex customs and traditions.use can use this link here if you want to check any thing else about Egypt or to arrange any thing for your holiday in adavnce

Written by ATW May 2024

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The best desert trips for safari and camping in Egypt

Egypt has many wonderful detinations for camping and safari tours , either for one day trip or for over night or a week that is why Egypt offers several fantastic desert safari and camping opportunities for those looking to explore its vast and beautiful desert landscapes. Here are some of the best desert trips you can consider:

White Desert (Sahara el Beyda)

– The surreal landscapes featuring white chalk rock formations are a highlight of this area. A typical trip includes camping under the stars, a barbecue dinner, and sometimes a visit to the neighboring Black Desert and Crystal Mountain.

Siwa Oasis

– Located near the Libyan border, Siwa offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and desert adventures. Visitors can enjoy hot springs, sand dunes, ancient ruins, and traditional Siwan hospitality, as well as camel trekking and sandboarding.

desert of egypt

Bahariya Oasis

– The starting point for most trips to the White Desert, Bahariya also has attractions of its own, including the Golden Mummies and the Black Desert. Camping under the stars and riding 4x4s across the dunes are popular activities.

Wadi El Rayan and Wadi El Hitan (Valley of the Whales)

– In addition to a vast desert space perfect for safari, visitors can see whale fossils and evidence of the area’s prehistoric marine life.

valley of the whales- Fayoum

Sinai Peninsula

– With a mix of desert and seaside settings, the Sinai Peninsula offers a range of activities including desert camping, hiking Mount Sinai, visiting St. Catherine’s Monastery, and exploring canyons like Colored Canyon and White Canyon.

The Eastern Desert – This area is rich in history and offers the chance to explore ancient Roman and Ptolemaic ruins, visit monasteries, and experience the desert landscape.

egyptian desert

Wadi Degla protected area :

which is the closest desert area from Cairo as it takes max 1 hour driving to reach it and it has many nice spots so YOu can enjoy camping there , BBRQ parties and hiking

When it comes to camping and safari desert tours remember always to check travel advisories, arrange trips through reputable agencies.

Written by ATW May 2024

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luxor travel guide

Best travel guide tips for Luxor

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Luxor is an open musuem and one of the most important monumental cities on earth. as it has alone one-third of the world’s monuments . name of Luxor was given by Arabs to the city which means in Arabic language the palaces as when they came to it they surprised with the great collection of temples that looks like palaces for them .

The history of luxor
The Golden Age of Luxor was during the Egyptian New Kingdom (1549—1069 BC). as it served was the capital of the country. The great military successes of the pharaohs of this time made the Egyptian kingdom very wealthy and powerful .

luxor temple

The main attractions in Luxor .

Karnak Temple Complex:

Explore the vast Karnak Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in the world, dedicated to the god Amun.

Luxor Temple

Visit Luxor Temple, a stunning temple complex on the east bank of the Nile River, dedicated to the rejuvenation of kingship.
Valley of the Kings:

the Valley of the Kings

Discover the Valley of the Kings on the west bank, where you can explore the tombs of famous pharaohs like Tutankhamun and Ramses II.

Valley of the Queens:

Adjacent to the Valley of the Kings, this valley contains the tombs of many queens and royal children.

Hatshepsut’s Temple :

Marvel at the Mortuary Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a unique and impressive structure set against the cliffs of Deir el-Bahari.

Colossi of Memnon:

See the towering statues of Amenhotep III known as the Colossi of Memnon on the west bank.

Luxor Museum:

For a closer look at artifacts from Luxor’s ancient past, visit the Luxor Museum, housing an impressive collection of statues, jewelry.

Activities you can do while you are in Luxor

Hot Air Balloon Ride:

Experience a breathtaking sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Valley of the Kings and the Nile River.

Felucca Ride:

Enjoy a traditional felucca boat ride on the Nile, providing a relaxing and scenic way to see the city.

Sound and Light Show:

Attend the Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple or Luxor Temple for a captivating evening that brings the ancient history to life.

valley of the kings

Important tips before going to Luxor

:

Best Time to Visit Luxor:

The winter months (November to February) are ideal for visiting Luxor when temperatures are milder.

Dress Modestly:

Respect the local culture by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Stay on Both Banks:

Consider staying on both the east and west banks to maximize your time and experience in Luxor.

Guided Tours:

Hire a knowledgeable guide to enhance your understanding of the historical significance of each site.

Local Cuisine:

Try local dishes like koshari, ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel), and kofta.

Sun Protection:

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the sun can be intense, especially during the summer months.

if you willing to visit Luxor check this link Luxor travel guide for more important information and activities that you can do there .

Written by ATW Updated May 2024

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Tipping guide in Egypt ( How much to tip in Egypt ? )

A Complete Guide on Tipping in Egypt ?

Tipping is considered as a common practice in Egypt and a way of appreciation for the service you recieve from the staff like taxi drivers, tour guides , house keepers and waiters as people in the tourism industry consider tips as part of their income.

Tipping Etiquette in Egypt ?

In Egypt, it is common to tip in cash. However, if you receive good service from someone it is better to hand the money directly to the person who provide the service, rather than leaving it on the table or in the room as this shows kind of respect and appreciation .

Tipping Mistakes to Avoid in Egypt

One of the mistakes that could be done is haggling over the amount of tips as it is considered kind of rude in Egypt.

tipping is expected in Egypt so if you got very good service from someone and you did not tip at all this could be considered as rudness or disrespect.

Why tipping is important in Egypt ?

people in Egypt get low wages that is why tipping for them considered as supplement for their income and way of living

How much is the fair tipping in Egypt ?

Driver taking you to hotel from airport upon arrival: 50 LE

Luggage man at hotel:50 LE both in and out

Housekeeping: 50 LE pr. night

Waiter/waitress at breakfast restaurant at hotel: 40 LE pr. meal

Waiter at cruise: 50 LE once if on a week long cruise. Less if cruise is shorter. You will most likely have the same waiter for the whole cruise. Of course, if your waiter does not provide a good service, you should reconsider how much you prefer to tip.

Guide taking you sightseeing full day: 100-200 LE

Driver taking you sightseeing half day: 100 LE

Men or women at restrooms handing out toilet paper: 10 LE. And if the restroom is unacceptably nasty, don’t tip!

tour guides full day tour : 300-400 le

if you want to know more about the lifestyle in Egypt check this link here

Written By ATW updated May 2024

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Things to do in Hurghada

Hurghada is a popular resort town on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. There are many activities to enjoy in Hurghada, both on and off the water.

Here are a few ideas:

Snorkeling and diving:

The Red Sea is home to an incredible variety of marine life, making it a world-renowned destination for snorkeling and diving. There are many dive sites to choose from, both inside and outside of the bay. You can see coral reefs, colorful fish, sharks, turtles, and more.

Relaxing on the beach:

Hurghada has many beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Some of the most popular beaches include El Gouna, Makadi Bay, and Soma Bay.

Taking a boat trip:

There are many boat trips available from Hurghada, including day trips to the Giftun Islands, dolphin watching tours, and sunset cruises.

Exploring the desert:

Hurghada is located near the Eastern Desert, which offers a variety of activities such as quad biking, jeep safaris, and camel rides. You can also visit Bedouin villages and learn about their culture.

Shopping: Hurghada has a variety of shops and markets, selling everything from souvenirs to traditional Egyptian crafts

Visiting the Hurghada Grand Aquarium: The Hurghada Grand Aquarium is home to over 4,000 species of fish and other marine life. It is a great place to learn about the Red Sea ecosystem.

Trying the local cuisine: Egyptian cuisine is delicious and flavorful. Be sure to try some of the local dishes, such as koshari, ful medames, and taamiya.

if you willing to visit Hurghada and know more about the great activities there you can check this link here

Written by ATW Updated Jun 2024

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Best Nile crusies in Egypt

Here are some factors to consider before booking a Nile cruise in Egypt , as Choosing the “best” Nile cruise depends on your individual preferences and budget.

Luxury level

:Nile cruises range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious. Luxury cruises offer spacious cabins with balconies, gourmet dining, swimming pools, spas, and attentive service. Budget cruises provide basic amenities and comfortable accommodations.

Itinerary

: Most cruises sail between Luxor and Aswan, stopping at iconic sites like the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and Abu Simbel. Some cruises also go to Cairo or Lake Nasser. Decide which destinations are most important to you.

Interests

: Some cruises cater to specific interests, such as history, archaeology, or photography. Choose a cruise that aligns with your passions.

Time of year

: The best time to visit Egypt is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild. Cruises can be more expensive during peak season.

Here are some of the top-rated Nile cruises in Egypt, categorized by luxury level:

Luxury:

Oberoi Zahra: This elegant ship offers spacious suites, gourmet dining, and impeccable service. It sails between Luxor and Aswan, with shore excursions led by expert Egyptologists.

oberoi zahra axa-tours

Sanctuary Sun Boat: This intimate ship features just 33 cabins, ensuring a personalized experience. It sails between Luxor and Aswan, offering unique excursions like hot air balloon rides over Luxor.

sunboat axa-tours

Radisson Blu Aswan: This modern ship offers stunning views of the Nile and a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, spa, and several restaurants. It sails between Aswan and Luxor

Mid-range:

Movenpick MS Darakum: This spacious ship offers comfortable cabins, a swimming pool, and a variety of dining options. It sails between Luxor and Aswan, with shore excursions included in the price.

Movenpick MS Darakum axa tours

Sonesta Star Goddess: This well-equipped ship features a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and several bars and restaurants. It sails between Luxor and Aswan, offering optional shore excursions at an additional cost.

Sonesta Star Goddess axa-tours

Nile Le Flore: This traditional dahabiya offers a more intimate experience with the Nile. It sails between Luxor and Aswan, with a focus on experiencing local culture.

Budget:

Nile Smile: This basic but comfortable ship offers a great value for the price. It sails between Luxor and Aswan, with optional shore excursions available.

Nile Smile axa-tours

Akhenaten II: This traditional dahabiya offers a laid-back atmosphere and stunning views of the Nile. It sails between Luxor and Aswan, with simple meals included in the price.

Esadora: This small and friendly ship offers comfortable cabins and a relaxed atmosphere. It sails between Luxor and Aswan, with optional shore excursions available.

If you would like to have an unforgettable experience exploring the wonders of the Nile Riverand book one of the best Nile cruises for very discounted rate check this link here

Written by ATW Updated Jun 2024

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