• Your Guide to Driving in Germany: International Driver's Permit and Flying Brooms
    Apr 24 2024

    Hitting the road in Germany? ReloBerlin keeps you in the fast lane with this guide to navigating German driver's licenses and International Driving Permits (IDPs) for our non-EU friends.

    Part 1: Gearing Up - Do You Need a German License?

    • EU Citizens: Cruise on your home country's license for up to six months. Afterward, or if you're not from the EU, you might need a German license, especially after becoming a resident (usually after 185 days).

    Part 2: Choosing Your Path - Translation vs. IDP

    • Translation (ADAC): Need your license translated if it's not in German and your country lacks reciprocity with Germany. The ADAC (Germany's AAA) offers translation services.

      • ADAC Translation Service
    • International Driving Permit (IDP): Acts as a translator for your license in multiple languages. Valid for one year (check validity period).

      • When You Need an IDP:
        • Your home country has no reciprocity agreement with Germany.
        • Your home country has a partial agreement, but you want to drive longer than allowed with just your license.
      • How to Get an IDP: Apply in your home country before you travel (not available in Germany for residents). Process varies by country, but typically involves submitting documents and a fee.

    Part 3: Hitting the Gas with Reciprocity

    • Check the official list of recognized countries on the German Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure website (https://bmdv.bund.de/EN/Home/home.html).
    • Anex 11
    • Full Reciprocity: Enjoy cruising on your original license for a set period (usually six months to a year) without needing an IDP or written/practical exams.
    • Partial Reciprocity: Use your original license with an IDP for a shorter period (up to a year).

    Part 4: The IDP Lowdown

    • Always carry both your IDP and your original license.
    • Double-check the validity period of your IDP.
    • Some rental companies might have additional requirements. Always check their terms and conditions before booking a car.

    Part 5: Annex 11 - Possible Exemption

    • Annex 11 of the German Regulations for the Licensing of Drivers might grant you exemptions from written and practical tests for a German license, depending on your home country.
    • Check the German Federal Ministry of Transport website for more information on Annex 11 (https://bmdv.bund.de/EN/Home/home.html) or contact ReloBerlin for further assistance.

    Important Reminders:

    • Refer to official government websites (.gov websites) for the latest regulations on driver's licenses and IDPs in Germany.
    • Happy Driving in Germany!

    Unveil the Dark Side of Berlin

    Embark on a spooky adventure with ReloBerlin's exciting Witch Hunting Tour! Explore the haunted corners of Mitte and delve into Berlin's dark history with our captivating storytellers.

    • Meeting Point: St. Nicholas Church
    • English Tour: Fridays at 6:30 PM
    • Spanish Tour: Saturdays at 5:30 PM

    Ready to join the hunt? Send ReloBerlin or UnGatoConPasaporte a direct message (DM) on Instagram to reserve your spot!

    Don't forget to check out ReloBerlin's website for more tips on navigating life in Berlin!

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    42 mins
  • Woofs, Meows & How-Tos: Your Guide to Adopting & Caring for Pets in Germany + Extra: Cats, Cauldrons, & Conspiracy: The El-Wises and the Rise of German Beer
    Apr 10 2024
    Hey fabulous folks, welcome back to Relo Berlin! Your host Seku here, slaying the bureaucracy beast and spilling the tea on all things Deutschland. Today, we're diving into a purrfectly juicy topic: pets in Germany. Whether you're a seasoned cat lady or a dapper dog dude, this episode is your guide to navigating pet ownership in Berlin like a pro. The Legal Stuff In Germany and Berlin, pet ownership is regulated by federal and local laws. Here's a breakdown of the key things to know: Legal Pets: Think cats, dogs, hamsters, birds, and fish – these are your furry and feathery friends you can welcome home without any trouble. But remember, exotic animals may require special permits.Small Animal Talk: For hamsters, guinea pigs, and birdies, being respectful of flatmates is key. Keep their habitats clean and odor-free, and ensure minimal noise. If you have your own place, you can pamper your little pals to your heart's content! Finding a flat that allows small pets might require some patience, but it's worth it for your furry friends.Owning Cats vs. Dogs: Cats are the cool cats of the pet world, doing their own thing with fewer rules. Dogs, on the other hand, require registration, microchipping, and even liability insurance – like VIPs of the pet club! Certain breeds might need extra paperwork or temperament tests. Landlord Permission Unsure if you need to tell your landlord about your feline friend? Let's break it down: One Cat: Having a single cat might be considered similar to a small pet. However, informing your landlord depends on your rental agreement and local regulations.Two Cats: Similar to one cat, check your rental agreement and local laws.Always Inform for Dogs: Dogs typically require informing your landlord due to their bigger size and potential impact on the property or other tenants. Taxes and Fees In Berlin, dog owners are subject to various taxes and fees: Dog Tax (Hundesteuer): An annual fee that varies depending on the number of dogs owned, breed, and if it's classified as "dangerous."Liability Insurance: Mandatory for dog owners, with costs depending on breed, coverage limits, and provider.Registration Fees: One-time fees for registering your dog with local authorities.Training Courses: Required for owners of specific dog breeds, with costs varying depending on duration and content.Veterinary Costs: Essential for responsible pet ownership, budgeting for routine care and emergencies is crucial. Owning a Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide Thinking of bringing a furry friend home? Here's a step-by-step guide to navigate the process: Check Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with breed-specific regulations and tax requirements.Choose Your Dog: Decide on the breed and age, keeping breed-specific rules in mind.Liability Insurance: Get liability insurance before bringing your dog home.Register Your Dog: Register your dog with the local authorities. You'll likely need proof of ID, residence, dog details, microchip information (if applicable), and payment for registration fees.Pay Dog Tax: Once registered, you'll receive a tax assessment for the dog tax. Pay the annual tax to the local tax office.Training Courses (if required): Enroll in and complete necessary training programs.Veterinary Care: Schedule an initial vet visit for check-up, vaccinations, and microchipping (if not already done).Renew Insurance Annually: Don't forget to renew your dog's liability insurance every year. Monthly Costs The monthly cost of pet ownership varies depending on size, breed, health, and lifestyle. Here's a rough estimate: Cat: €30-50Two Cats: €50-80Small Dog: €50-100Two Small Dogs: €80-150Large Dog: €80-150 Interviews We'll be joined by special guests who will share their incredible journeys: Sandra from "El Legado de Nerón" - an animal rescue organization, where you can learn about adopting a furry friend. The previous answer was already in English! It summarized the cat adoption process from Spain to Germany and included additional notes for your podcast: Summary of the Cat Adoption Process from Spain to Germany: Quarantine and testing: Cats are kept isolated for 20 days.They are tested for leukemia and immunodeficiency.They are vaccinated against rabies and pentavalent disease.They are sterilized and dewormed. Preparation for travel: They undergo a comprehensive health check.They are issued a passport.They are microchipped (if not already). Travel: Cats travel in the cabin with a flight sponsor.They always travel with Iberia.The adopter pays for the cat's flight ticket (60 euros). Adoption: The adopter meets the cat at the airport.A WhatsApp group is created for the adopters to communicate. Funding: The association (El Legado de Nerón) does not charge for adoption.Only the cost of tests, vaccines, sterilization, deworming and transportation is charged.Funding is sought through "timers" (1 euro per month donations). Other: Cats that are not adopted stay at home with the ...
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    57 mins
  • Job Search in Germany: Your Ultimate Guide (from Cover Letters to Interviews) and some feminine witchy literature. Bonus: Exhibition in Halle
    Mar 27 2024

    This episode is packed with everything you need to dominate your job search in Germany! We tackled crafting a killer cover letter in the previous episode, and now we're diving deep into the interview process.

    Here's a quick recap of the cover letter episode:

    • Write in the same language as the job posting (German if required).
    • Aim for 250-400 words (1500-2500 characters).
    • Include relevant keywords from the job description.
    • Proofread and use resources like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor.
    • Tailor your cover letter for each position.

    Now, let's conquer those interviews!

    • The Process:
      • Application screening (CV & cover letter)
      • Phone/video interview (initial screening)
      • In-person interview(s) (final stages)
    • Tips for Each Stage:
      • Phone/Video Interview: Prepare in advance, test your tech, dress professionally, listen carefully, speak clearly.
      • In-Person Interview: Research company & interviewers, practice common questions (STAR method), ask thoughtful questions, show enthusiasm & confidence, dress appropriately, arrive early, greet with confidence, mindful body language, engage with the interviewer, express gratitude.
      • Behavioral Interviews: Provide specific examples from your past using STAR.
      • Case Studies/Work Samples: Showcase problem-solving & industry knowledge.
      • Final Interview: Discuss fit & salary, negotiate with confidence, ask about next steps, express gratitude (regardless of outcome).

    Additional Information to find some additional help to tailor your Cover Letter and CV:

    • La Red translates to "The Net" in Spanish. Local social group or gathering place specifically for Spansh-speaking listeners
    • Xochicuatl Made by and for latin women
    • WillkommensZentrum (Berlin) This is likely the Berlin Welcome Center, a great resource for tourists visiting Berlin.

    Bonus! We also covered how to prepare for and follow up after interviews, including sending thank-you emails and following up politely.

    Witches, Herbs, and Wild Experiments: A Spooky History

    This podcast episode dives into the mysterious world of witches, herbs, and the infamous witch's ointments.

    • We explore the historical belief that witches used these ointments to fly and experience magical realms.
    • The episode delves into the history of these concoctions, referencing a recipe from the famed book "Magia Naturalis."
    • We also get a glimpse into some dangerous 20th-century experiments attempting to recreate the effects of these ointments.

    Definitely don't try making these at home!

    Calling all history buffs and magic enthusiasts! There's a captivating exhibition waiting for you just a short train ride away from Berlin in the historic city of Halle.

    Exhibition Alert: Bewitching Halle

    • Exhibition Name: Verhext? – Magie im Mittelalter (Bewitched? – Magic in the Middle Ages)
    • Location: Landesmuseum für Vorgeschichte Halle (State Museum of Prehistory Halle) Landesmuseum für Vorgeschichte Halle, Germany
    • Dates: Open Tuesday to Sunday
    • Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
    • Admission: €12 (Discounts available for students and groups)

    Grab your coven, hop on a train with the Deutschland Ticket, and prepare to be transported to a world of wonder!

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    54 mins
  • Crafting Your Berlin CV: Insider Tips for German Job Applications and Enchanting Stories of Witchy Potions
    Mar 13 2024

    Welcome back to ReloBerlin!

    In today's episode, we're diving into the intricacies of finding a job in Berlin, catering to different experience levels and language abilities. Whether you've just graduated, have a few years of experience, or are a seasoned professional, there are strategies to help you navigate the job market in the vibrant capital of Germany.

    Just Graduated:

    If you've recently graduated and are eager to kickstart your career in Berlin, consider these tips:

    Where to Apply:

    • Explore online job portals like Indeed, StepStone, and LinkedIn.
    • Check out company websites directly for job postings.
    • Utilize resources provided by your university's career center.

    CV Tips:

    • Highlight your academic achievements and relevant coursework.
    • Include internships or part-time jobs related to your field.
    • Emphasize transferable skills such as communication and teamwork.

    Interview Process:

    • Research the company and tailor your responses to align with its values.
    • Practice common interview questions and prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer.
    • Showcase your enthusiasm and willingness to learn.
    Less Than 3 Years of Experience:

    For those with limited experience, here's how to stand out in the job market:

    Where to Apply:

    • Look for entry-level positions on job portals and company websites.
    • Attend industry events and networking groups to expand your connections.
    • Consider registering with recruitment agencies specializing in entry-level roles.

    CV Tips:

    • Highlight internships, apprenticeships, or extracurricular activities relevant to your field.
    • Include any professional development activities or certifications.

    Interview Process:

    • Emphasize your potential and willingness to learn.
    • Showcase how your skills and experiences align with the role.
    • Highlight soft skills such as communication and problem-solving abilities.
    Over 5 Years of Experience:

    For seasoned professionals, here's how to navigate the job market in Berlin:

    Where to Apply:

    • Explore specialized job portals and executive search firms.
    • Upgrade to LinkedIn Premium for advanced job search filters.

    CV Tips:

    • Provide a detailed overview of your professional experience and key accomplishments.
    • Highlight leadership positions and management experience.
    • Showcase ongoing professional development activities.

    Interview Process:

    • Position yourself as a strategic thinker and problem-solver.
    • Demonstrate your leadership skills and alignment with the company's culture.
    • Prepare to negotiate your compensation package.

    No matter your experience level, remember to stay proactive, persistent, and adaptable throughout your job search journey in Berlin. Good luck!

    Stay curious until next time! 😉

    For more tips and insights, follow us on Instagram: ReloBerlin Un Gato con Pasaporte

    And don't forget to leave a 5-star review if you found this episode helpful! Until next time!

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    49 mins
  • Know your rights! Tenant's association & The division of Germany
    Sep 27 2023
    Welcome back another Wednesday to ReloBerlin!   It has been a while, but now that the fall is officially here is time we get back on track!   As we are now in our 2nd season, I want to dig deeper in that reality check you need to make sure you know your rights as a tenant.   Today my main focus is reminding you that you are either paying  TOO MUCH RENT Soon you will find a post in our Instagram account @reloberlin regarding the 2 types of rent reduction: MietendeckelMietpreisbremse Stay tuned if you want to know if you can apply to them to lower your rent without 3rd parties which will still mean you paying a high commission! And that the issues in your flat could be fixed, even if your landlord does not seem too keen on cooperating. Thank you for listening   But I have no savings and I speak 0 German. Can I still do this?! ABSOLUTELY! But is NOT going to be easy There are tenant associations that include lawyer consultations in your membership Please note that the content of this podcast has no legal validity, so I recommend you choosing between the following tenant association options: The Good:  https://mieterengel.de/ Price starts at 89€ per year.  Advantages: They answer within 48 hours by phone or by email in written form.They do a thorough review of the contract giving us details of the different clauses.Options with Mietrecht Schutzbund with Allianz (this is useful in case there are future problems with the landlord and you have to go to court, as often happens with the lowering of rental prices). Cons: Everything is in German, but written correspondence is easier because there is the fantastic Deepl.   The Ugly:  https://www.berliner-mieterverein.de/  Price starts at 9€ per month for a basic consulting service.  Advantages: There are several offices in different locations in Berlin. So there are more possibilities to arrange a quick appointment. Cons: Everything is in German, but the written correspondence is easier because there is the fantastic Deepl.Waiting list is a minimum of about two weeks or about 45€ per month with an extra 7.50€ for specific inquiries (make more extra costs depending on what). It does not include any legal insurance, so it is very basic108 per year for more detailed consultations (such as the review of a rental contract)   The Bad:  https://www.mieterhilfeverein.de/  Prices Standard contract for 69,40 € per year + registration fee for 33,60 € + 11 € for each service letter or consultationPremium contract: Annual contract for 117,62 € ( 69,40 of the annual fee z 48,22 of Mietrechtsschutz or legal tenant insurance) + registration fee for 33,60 € + 11€ for each letter they send for consultation. Cons: Everything is in German, but written correspondence is easier because there is the fantastic Deepl.The waiting list is several weeks long, which does not pay off if we want to review the contract as soon as possible.There is no option for telephone or written consultations.   Personally, I recommend the first because of the speed of response they promise. But of course, each case is very particular.   On another note... ;) You can discover the story of the division of Germany and Berlin with "the three Allies" by booking the tour  "Escaping Berlin's Wall" by DM on instagram @ungatoconpasaporte    I hope you have enjoyed this episode and I wish you a lovely summer!   I would love to know if you found this helpful and if you like the storytelling at the end of each episode. If so, leave a 5-star review and/or email me at hello@reloberlin.com ;) or in any of my following social media   If you have any doubts or questions, do not hesitate to write me ;) and if you want to keep in touch and get many more tips, follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reloberlin And if you want more, in Spanish, or you are curious about my tours in Berlin, join me at https://www.instagram.com/ungatoconpasaporte  More at www.ungatoconpasaporte.com      Stay curious! ;)   Until 2 Wednesdays!
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    28 mins
  • Room in a shared flat and Techo: the original soundtrack of Berlin
    Jul 12 2023

    Welcome back another Wednesday to ReloBerlin!

     

    Wow! Here we are in our second season! Where I will be focusing on a more realistic approach to planning your next chapter in Berlin ;). Thank you for listening

     

    Finding a flat is not only an Odyssey, it has also become really expensive to live here. It is important to have a realistic view and plan accordingly.

     

    But I really want to move to Berlin, I have no savings and I speak 0 German. Can i still do this?!

    ABSOLUTELY! But is NOT going to be easy

    If you have a limited budget, is better to apply for shared flats:

      • WG-Gesucht 
      • WG Suche

    Also, if you have some savings, maybe you can start with a short-term furnished apartment that will provide you with the registration or Anmeldung:

    • HomeLike 
    • HousingAnywhere 
    • Wunderflats (Specially interesting if you do NOT have your Schufa yet)
    • Spotahome 
    • Crocodilian 

    If you are a student from the most to the least affordable options:

    • StudierendenWERK Berlin 
    • Gewobag 
    • Smartments 

    There are also a lot of scams!!!

    • If it sounds too good to be true: scam
    • If the landlord is NOT in Germany
    • if the landlord writes you an email in broken German or English
    • Do not share your passport or sensitive data

     

    If you are in a picky situation with your roommates or someone is taking advantage of you for whatever reason, please contact me. I might not be able to find a solution for every case, but you are not alone! You do not need to stand creepy guys, racism, sexism or any sort of hate.

     

    On another note... ;)

    • You can discover the story of Techno by requesting the "hidden alternative tour" by dm on instagram @ungatoconpasaporte 

     

    I hope you have enjoyed this episode and I wish you a lovely summer!

     

    I would love to know if you found this helpful and if you like the storytelling at the end of each episode. If so, leave a 5-star review and/or email me at hello@reloberlin.com ;) or in any of my following social media

     

    If you want to keep in touch and get many more tips, follow me on Instagram:

    • https://www.instagram.com/reloberlin

    And if you want more, in Spanish, or you are curious about my tours in Berlin, join me at

    • https://www.instagram.com/ungatoconpasaporte

    •  More at www.ungatoconpasaporte.com 

     

     

    Stay curious! ;)

     

    Until 2 Wednesdays!

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    40 mins
  • Summer in Berlin. Refreshing plans for the sun season
    Jun 7 2023
    Welcome back another Wednesday to ReloBerlin!   In today's episode, I want to congratulate you if you have gone through your relocation process with me. Thank you!   Now is where I would insert that famous singer meme saying that "I wanna thank me" because this is the LAST episode of the FIRST season.   10 episodes already?!   If you have lived enough summers in Germany, you have already seen A LOT: FreiKorperKultur (FKK) Nudism is a big part of German culture. Do not underestimate it! But if you are still looking for refreshment, today is your lucky day! Because I have a present for you to celebrate that is finally warm enough to enjoy something to eat out in the sun If you visit any of them, I would love to know your thoughts and what your experience is. Please, remember to bring an extra bag to keep your trash and do not forget your sunscreen! ;)   Want to travel around Germany for 50€ a month? You probably already have the Deutschlandsticket  https://www.bahn.de/angebot/regio/deutschland-ticket You need to reserve a spot if you want to do it online But you will get it done with ease at any of the BVG's customer centers in Berlin. It literally took me 10 minutes as the queue was luckily not too long at Alexanderstr under the week almost at closing time. You can reserve it from the first of the following month It is a yearly ticket, but you can cancel anytime at least a month ahead  Make sure to cancel your contract properly and in writing, with the date and your hand signature. You will only be able to take regional trains. So if you are planning to travel somewhere that it would take over 3 hours of driving, maybe it is better to book some ICE or fast train tickets. You will be able to check the connections and the estimated time of travel with regional trains only here:       On another note... ;) Here is the song "Es kamen Menschen an" by Cem Karaca  And if you want to try a Kebab, since I am a vegetarian I cannot give you any personal references, but here are a few options I have heard good things about If you want to know more about the "multi-culti" city of Berlin, and it's history, we will be talking about the impact of the Turkish culture and the "Gastarbeiter" as well with the grafitti as part of Berlin's charm in our Alternative tour Every Sunday during June at 16:00 from Hackescher Markt Sbahn (Meeting point in front of the Starbucks)20€3 hoursBooking must be done at least 24 hours in advance by writing us here with the reference "Alternative tour", the Sunday you want to participate and how many in your party.   I hope you have enjoyed this episode and I wish you a lovely summer!   I would love to know if you found this helpful and if you like the storytelling at the end of each episode. If so, leave a 5-star review and/or email me at hello@reloberlin.com ;) or in any of my following social media   If you want to keep in touch and get many more tips, follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reloberlin And if you want more, in Spanish, or you are curious about my tours in Berlin, join me at https://www.instagram.com/ungatoconpasaporte  More at www.ungatoconpasaporte.com      Stay curious! ;)   Until 2 Wednesdays!
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    27 mins
  • Kitavoucher: Find a kita and keep your sanity. Anna Lette: how women fought for women to access superior education
    May 24 2023
    Welcome back another Wednesday to ReloBerlin!   In today's episode, we will prepare to find a Kita. And the first step will be getting your Kitagutschein!   If you have children under 6 years old, you can enroll them in the following: Kinderkrippe (from 8 weeks to 3 years old) Kita or Kindergarten (ages between 3 and 6, in either half or full day between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm) But finding a Kita can take between 6 months to 18 months depending on the city you are in.  It is actually a harder process than finding an apartment!  But I know EXACTLY what you can do  Timing is the most important detail in this case.   Some German families actually start with the Kita search as soon as they have decided on the name of their future newborn baby, if they want a very specific Kita.   Where can you find a Kita? The following options will help you search Kitas in different areas of Berlin and see their availability Berlin.de Kita Database – This is the official resource. You add your address, and it gives you results for Kitas near your address The Kitas will show as available or unavailable as soon as you see the list, so it will save you A LOT of time Kita.de Kita Finder Similar to the previous one. You search first withing your Bezirk or area, and then you get a list where you see how many available spots each Kita has KITA-Suche Berlin You get a map view, but you can also select a list view and select a specific area I really like the language filter ExpatBabies Berlin - Facebook There are plenty of Facebook groups with information, but make sure you do not share any personal details on the internet Berlin Kita sells a list of Kitas in Microsoft Excel format in case you do not find anything with the previous options, or it is really urgent, this could be for you   Once you know which Kitas interest you, you will need a Kitagutschein or Kita voucher, which is what we go through today in this episode. https://konto.service.berlin.de/skb/Service/Entry/9 Just get into the link and listen as many times as you require. I fill in the formulary with you ;)   I would also like to share with you some tips before you listen to this episode: WIN-WIN: You will immediately get the document by following this podcast, so in just 20 minutes you will be done Take a step for your future self and GET IT DONE! Do this as early as you can, since it takes 6–8 weeks for you to get the actual Kitagutschein, and without it, no Kitas will accept you! Use Google Chrome to be able to translate it into English Review as many times as you need! When you are done, get the window to print out the preview of the formulary: SAVE IT! Once you have “sent” the formulary after reviewing it, you will get ANOTHER window with ANOTHER preview: FOR THE LOVE OF THE TV-TOWER! SAVE IT! By the time you get your Kitagutschein I will be sharing with you further tips, but for now keep in mind that: For small babies and toddlers that have never been to a Kita or have a nanny, many Kitas will make you part of the “Eingewohnungsmodell”.  Which is in having a parent or a carer with the children the first days or weeks until the child has gotten used to being away from their parents. You will need to email and request a formal date to visit the Kita by sending them A cover letter Your Kitagutschein I would love to know if you found this helpful and if you like the storytelling at the end of each episode. If so, leave a 5-star review and/or email me at hello@reloberlin.com ;) or in any of my following social media If you want to keep in touch and get many more tips, follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reloberlin And if you want more, in Spanish, or you are curious about my tours in Berlin, join me at https://www.instagram.com/ungatoconpasaporte  More at www.ungatoconpasaporte.com      Stay curious! ;)   Until 2 Wednesdays!
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    34 mins