45 Best Things to do in Myrtle Beach!

Myrtle Beach, located on the Atlantic coast of South Carolina, is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful sandy beaches, warm climate, and wide range of attractions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled trip, Myrtle Beach has it all. The city is famous for its golf courses, amusement parks, and vibrant nightlife. In this guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Myrtle Beach during your visit to South Carolina.

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1. Must-See Attractions

Myrtle Beach Boardwalk

The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk is stretching for 1.2 miles along the oceanfront, a perfect spot for a walk with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. As you walk along the boardwalk, you’ll find a mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions that suits to all ages. The smell of fresh seafood and the sound of laughter fill the air, making it a vibrant and enjoyable experience. The boardwalk also features a variety of entertainment options, including live music, street performers, and arcades. For those looking for a bit of adventure, there are also zip lines and other thrilling activities available.

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

The SkyWheel Myrtle Beach is a Ferris wheel, that stands 200 feet tall and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and city. As you step into one of the glass-enclosed gondolas, you’ll feel the ride is smooth and comfortable, making it a great experience for all ages. Once you reach the top, you can see for miles in every direction, taking in the beauty of Myrtle Beach and surrounding. The SkyWheel is especially stunning at night when it’s lit up with colorful LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere. It’s located in the heart of Myrtle Beach, making it easy to include in your sightseeing list.

Broadway at the Beach

The Broadway at the Beach is an entertainment complex that offers a wide range of activities. As you walk through, you’ll find a mix of shops, restaurants, and attractions. There are also plenty of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining, offering a variety of cuisines to suit every taste. For those who love shopping, Broadway at the Beach has plenty of stores selling everything from clothing to souvenirs. The complex also features several entertainment venues, including theaters and live performance spaces and Pavilion Park, which offers rides and games for the whole family.

Market Common

The Market Common is located on Farrow Parkway, it’s a mixed-use area offers a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. As you walk through the area, you’ll find a variety of shops, from well-known brands to unique boutiques. There are plenty of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, serving a variety of cuisines. You’ll find landscaped areas with benches and fountains, providing a peaceful setting to relax. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are walking and biking trails, as well as a lake for fishing and paddle boating.

Legends in Concert

The Legends in Concert is located at Broadway at the Beach, this show features tribute artists who perform as famous singers and bands. The show features a mix of classic and contemporary hits, ensuring it has it all. One of the highlights of Legends in Concert is the variety of performances. Each show features different tribute artists, so you can see a range of acts, from Elvis Presley to Taylor Swift. The talented performers put on a high-energy show that will have you singing along and dancing in your seat. After the show, you can meet the performers, take photos, and get autographs.

Myrtle Beach Pelicans

Watching the Myrtle Beach Pelicans play baseball is a fun experience for fans of all ages. The Pelicans are a minor league team, and their home games are held at the TicketReturn.comField in Myrtle Beach. You’ll feel the excitement in the air, with fans cheering and the smell of popcorn and hot dogs filling the stands. The games are enjoyable, with the Pelicans often putting on an entertaining show. Between innings, there are fun activities and games for the fans, to keep them energized. The mascot, Splash, is a hit with the kids, posing for photos and keeping the crowd entertained.

La Belle Amie Vineyard

Located just a short drive from the beach, La Belle Amie Vineyard offers a peaceful escape from the city life. One of the highlights of La Belle Amie Vineyard is the wine tasting experience. You can sample a variety of wines, each with its own unique flavor and character. The staff share the story behind each wine, making the experience both enjoyable and educational. The vineyard hosts regular events, including live music and festivals, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. If you’re feeling hungry, the vineyard offers a selection of snacks and light bites that pair perfectly with the wines.

Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show

The Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show is an exciting experience for the whole family. As you enter the venue, you’ll be surrounded with pirate-themed decorations everywhere you look. Before the show starts, you can explore the lobby, where there’s a lot to see and do, including photo opportunities with pirate props. The show begins with an impressive display of acrobatics, music, and special effects. The performers, dressed as pirates, captivate the audience with their daring stunts and entertaining antics. There’s even audience participation, which adds to the fun and excitement.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Boat Tours

In Myrtle Beach, with a variety of boat tours available, you can either spot dolphins, learning about local history, or simply enjoying a relaxing cruise. The tours typically last a couple of hours, giving you plenty of time to take in the sights and snap some photos. One of the highlights is the chance to see dolphins swimming alongside the boat. It’s an amazing experience to watch these creatures in their natural habitat. Some tours like Barefoot Queen Riverboat Cruises or Sea Thunder Dolphin Cruise offer opportunities for fishing or even stopping at a secluded island for a picnic.

Beach Activities

The long sandy beaches of Myrtle Beach are perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles. The warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean make swimming and wading a delight. If you enjoy active pursuits, there are plenty of water sports to choose from, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. Surfing is also popular, and there are places where you can rent equipment or take lessons. For those who prefer to stay dry, beach volleyball is a favorite activity, with courts set up along the shore. Families will love the beach playgrounds and picnic areas, perfect for a day out with the kids.

Water Sports

Myrtle Beach offer the perfect setting for a wide range of activities to do. Jet skiing is a popular choice, with several marinas like Myrtle Beach Watersports or Downwind Sails, providing the equipment and safety instructions needed for an exciting ride. For those looking to soar above the water, parasailing offers a thrilling experience with stunning views of the coastline. For adrenaline junkies, windsurfing and kiteboarding provide an exciting way to enjoy the waves. Snorkeling and scuba diving provide an opportunity to explore the underwater and observe marine life up close.

Golfing Courses

Myrtle Beach is a golfer’s paradise, with a variety of courses to suit all skill levels. Most of the courses are designed by famous architects, offering unique challenges and rewarding experiences. One of the top spots is the Dunes Golf and Beach Club, known for its well-maintained greens and beautiful scenery. Another great option is the Myrtlewood Golf Club, with two courses that provide a mix of difficulty and fun. For a more challenging round, try the Tidewater Golf Club, which offers stunning views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The Barefoot Resort and Golf has four championship courses, each with its own distinct layout and challenges.

Fishing Charters

In Myrtle Beach, fishing charters offer an exciting adventure for anglers of all skill levels. The trips typically last a few hours, giving you plenty of time to try your luck at catching fish like flounder, redfish, and king mackerel. The tour guides know the best spots and techniques, ensuring you have a fun and successful fishing. The boats are comfortable and well-equipped, with plenty of space for everyone to fish. Some charters like Voyager Deep Sea Fishing & Dolphin Cruises also offer the option to catch and release, allowing you to experience the thrill of the catch without harming the fish.

Hiking Trails

Myrtle Beach offer several hiking trails to explore the area. One of the best spots for hiking is the Myrtle Beach State Park, which features several trails that take you through coastal forests and provide stunning views of the ocean. Another great place for hiking is the Horry County Bike and Run Park, also known as “The Hulk.” This park offers a network of trails that are perfect for both hiking and biking. For a more relaxed hike, the Huntington Beach State Park offers well-marked trails that take you through salt marshes and maritime forests. The park is also home to Atalaya Castle, a historic landmark that adds a unique touch to your hiking experience.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Hollywood Wax Museum

The Hollywood Wax Museum is located on the busy King’s Highway, showcases lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities up close. Inside, you’ll find famous actors, musicians, and sports stars posed in realistic scenes. The detailed craftsmanship of the figures makes it feel like you’re standing next to the real person. Museum is well-organized, with different sections dedicated to various themes, such as classic Hollywood, modern pop culture, and iconic movie scenes. There’s even a section where you can learn about the history and process of creating these amazing wax figures.

Horry County Museum

The Horry County Museum features a variety of displays that cover different aspects of the region’s history, from its early settlers to its development as a popular tourist destination. One of the highlights is the collection of artifacts that tell the story of the local Native American tribes. The museum has a section dedicated to the area’s natural history, including displays of local wildlife and plants. For those interested in military history, there are exhibits that highlight the contributions of local veterans. It offers programs and guided tours, providing deeper insights into the exhibits.

The Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk

The Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk is connected with a wooden boardwalk, runs along the edge of the saltwater marsh, offering stunning views and a chance to see local wildlife. The Marsh Walk is lined with popular restaurants and bars, making it a great place to enjoy a meal or a drink with a view. The area is family-friendly, and there are often live music and events happening, adding to the lively atmosphere. In the evening, Marsh Walk comes alive with twinkling lights, creating a magical ambiance. Fishing is popular here, and you’ll often see people casting their lines from the docks.

Wheels of Yesteryear

The Wheels of Yesteryear showcases a stunning collection of classic cars and vintage automobiles. The museum has a wide range of cars from different eras, including muscle cars, hot rods, and antique models. Walking through the exhibits, you can appreciate the craftsmanship and design that went into these vehicles. One of the highlights is the collection of rare and iconic cars, which are sure to impress any car lover. The exhibits are well-organized, making it easy to navigate. There are also informative displays that provide background on the history and significance of each vehicle.

House of Blues Myrtle Beach

The House of Blues Myrtle Beach is located in the Barefoot Landing area, it offers a unique blend of live music, Southern cuisine, and a vibrant atmosphere. The interior is decorated with music memorabilia, giving it a cozy and eclectic vibe and the main stage hosts a variety of live performances, from rock and blues to country and jazz. The House of Blues has a restaurant that serves delicious Southern-inspired dishes. The menu features favorites like fried chicken, BBQ ribs, and shrimp and grits. The bar offers a wide selection of drinks, including signature cocktails and craft beers.

WonderWorks Myrtle Beach

As you approach WonderWorks Myrtle Beach, you’ll notice it’s designed to look like it’s upside down. Inside, you’ll find over 100 interactive exhibits with topics such as space, physics, and art. The indoor ropes course allows you to test your balance and agility. There are also simulators that let you experience the sensation of a hurricane or an earthquake. Kids will love the bubble lab, where they can create giant bubbles, and the space zone, which features a replica of a NASA space suit. There’s also a 6D motion ride that takes you on a thrilling journey through different worlds.

Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum

The Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum features a variety of artwork, from traditional paintings to contemporary pieces. One of the highlights is the collection of Southern art, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, offering a mix of permanent collections and rotating displays. The museum also has a lovely sculpture garden, where you can enjoy the outdoor art in a serene setting. For those interested in learning more about the art, the museum offers guided tours and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and Education Center

The Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and Education Center is a powerful place to learn about the history and culture of the African American community. It was once served as a school for Black students during segregation and now it features a variety of displays that cover different aspects of the region’s history, from education to community life. One of the highlights is the collection of photographs and artifacts that tell the story of the students and teachers who once attended the school. It offers educational programs and guided tours, providing deeper insights into the exhibits.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Family Kingdom Amusement Park

The Family Kingdom Amusement Park offers a variety of rides for all ages, from thrilling roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides. The Swamp Fox wooden roller coaster is a classic favorite, providing a thrilling experience with its twists and turns. For a more relaxing ride, the Ferris wheel offers beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding area. The water park area is perfect for cooling off on a hot day, with slides, a lazy river, and a splash area for the little ones. Family Kingdom also hosts special events and live entertainment throughout the year, adding to the fun and excitement.

Ripley’s Aquarium

The Ripley’s Aquarium is located at Broadway at the Beach, offers a chance to see marine life up close. One of the main attractions is the Dangerous Reef, a 340-foot long tunnel where you can walk through and see sharks, rays, and other sea creatures swimming around you. Another popular exhibit is the Ray Bay, where you can watch stingrays glide through the water and even touch them in the interactive area. The aquarium has a variety of other exhibits showcasing different marine habitats, from the colorful tropical fish in Rainbow Rock to the mysterious creatures in the Living Gallery.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

The Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is filled with unusual exhibits that capture your imagination. Inside, you’ll encounter bizarre artifacts, strange creatures, and incredible art pieces made from unusual materials. The exhibits are designed to surprise and entertain, making it a fun experience for both kids and adults. It also features themed galleries that cover a wide range of topics, from natural wonders to human achievements. There’s also a section dedicated to Robert Ripley, founder of Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, where you can learn about his life and the history of the museum.

Myrtle Beach Safari

The Myrtle Beach Safari offers a chance to see exotic animals up close. The safari features a variety of animals, including tigers, chimpanzees, and eagles. The guided tours are led by experienced guides who share interesting facts and stories about the animals. One of the highlights is the opportunity to interact with some of the animals, under the supervision of the staff. This preserve is dedicated to animal conservation and education, making your visit both enjoyable and informative. There is also a gift shop to buy some unique souvenirs and support their conservation efforts.

Miniature Golf

With many themed courses to choose from, you’re sure to find one that fits your style in Myrtle Beach. Each course offers unique challenges and creative designs, making the experience enjoyable and exciting. As you walk through, you’ll see colorful decorations, waterfalls, and even some animated characters. Some courses like Mt. Atlanticus Minotaur Golf or Captain Hook’s Adventure Golf, even offer nighttime play with special lighting. The courses are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth and pleasant game. Playing miniature golf is a great way to spend time with family and friends.

Broadway Grand Prix

The Broadway Grand Prix offers a variety of go-kart tracks, each designed to provide a unique racing experience. As you enter the park, you’re greeted by the sounds of revving engines. The staff are always ready to help with instructions and ensure you have a great time. The tracks range from beginner-friendly courses to more challenging ones for experienced racers. Whether you’re racing against friends or family, the competitive spirit adds to the fun. The park also features other attractions, including mini-golf, an arcade, and bumper cars, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Sky Zone Trampoline Park offers a variety of activities that are great for both kids and adults. The main area is filled with trampolines, allowing you to jump, flip, and bounce to your heart’s content. There are also dodgeball courts, a foam pit, and a basketball area where you can practice your slam dunks. Sky Zone also offers fitness classes for those looking to get a workout while having fun. After an exciting session of jumping, you can relax in the lounge area and enjoy some refreshments. The wide range of activities make Sky Zone a perfect spot for families visiting Myrtle Beach.

Myrtle Waves Water Park

The Myrtle Waves Water Park is located near Broadway at the Beach and offers a variety of attractions to keep you entertained. The park features over 20 water slides and attractions, including a lazy river, wave pool, and kiddie areas. One of the main highlights is the Turbo Twisters, a thrilling slide that offers an exciting ride from start to finish. The wave pool provides a fun way to enjoy the waves without the ocean’s currents. There are several areas designed for younger kids, ensuring that everyone has a great time. The park offers plenty of seating areas, so you can take a break and relax.

5. Cultural Attractions

Myrtle Beach Convention Center

The Myrtle Beach Convention Center is a great place for various events and gatherings. It has a large exhibition hall, meeting rooms, and a grand ballroom, suitable for a wide range of events, from trade shows and conferences to weddings and social gatherings. The center is equipped with modern technology, providing excellent support for presentations and performances. One of the highlights is its convenient location, with many hotels, restaurants, and attractions nearby. This makes it easy for attendees to find accommodations and enjoy the local amenities during their visit.

The Carolina Opry Theater

The Carolina Opry Theater is known for its high-quality shows, featuring talented singers, dancers, and musicians. The shows at the theater cover a range of genres, from country and rock to Broadway and comedy. The performers are top-notch, delivering energetic and engaging performances that keep the audience entertained from start to finish. It features special effects, like impressive lighting and sound systems, that add to the overall experience. One of the highlight is Carolina Opry Christmas Special, it’s a popular event, bringing festive performances and decorations.

Alabama Theatre

The Alabama Theatre is located at Barefoot Landing, it is famous for its great shows and performances. The shows feature a mix of music, dance, and comedy, making it a fun experience for all ages. One of the most popular shows is “ONE The Show”, which offers a mix of country, rock, and pop music, along with amazing dance routines and comedy acts. The performers are skilled and energetic, and the theater also has special holiday shows that add a festive touch to your visit. After the show, you can meet the performers and take photos, making the evening even more special.

GTS Theatre

Located just off Highway 17, GTS Theatre making it the perfect place to enjoy a variety of shows. The venue is known for its tribute acts, which celebrate the music of legendary artists like Elvis Presley, Motown groups, and country stars. The performers are talented and passionate, delivering performances that keep the audience entertained. The theater’s small size ensures that every seat has a great view of the stage, allowing you to fully enjoy the talent on display. The venue also offers special themed shows and events throughout the year, adding to the excitement and variety.

6. Natural Attractions

Myrtle Beach State Park

The Myrtle Beach State Park is located along the Grand Strand coastline, it offers a mix of sandy beaches, wooded trails, and picturesque picnic spots. The park has several well-marked trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. One of the highlights is the Sculptured Oak Nature Trail, which takes you through a coastal forest filled with unique plants and wildlife. The trails are easy to follow and suitable for all ages, making it a great option for families. The beach area is well-maintained and there are several picnic shelters and playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.

Brookgreen Gardens

As you enter Brookgreen Gardens, you are welcomed by landscaped areas filled with a variety of plants and flowers. One of the highlights is the sculpture garden, which features an impressive collection of sculptures set against the backdrop of lush greenery. The gardens also offer several walking trails that take you through natural habitats, where you can spot local wildlife. The guided tours share interesting facts into the history and significance of the gardens. For families, gardens have a children’s area with interactive exhibits and activities that make learning about nature fun.

Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, the beach is clean and well-kept, with lifeguards on duty to ensure everyone’s safety. It’s a great place to enjoy a swim, build sandcastles, or simply relax with a good book. The nearby pier is a popular spot for fishing and taking in the ocean views. There are several picnic areas and playgrounds, for a family outing or gatherings. The beach is lined with small shops and eateries, offering a variety of snacks and meals to enjoy. For those looking to stay active, there are plenty of water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking.

Garden City Beach

Garden City Beach is an ideal spot for a relaxing beach day. Known for its family-friendly vibe, this beach offers a nice stretch of sand and gentle waves. As you arrive, you’ll find ample parking and easy access to the beach. The area is clean and well-maintained, with lifeguards on duty most of the time. Garden City Beach is great for swimming, building sandcastles, or simply soaking up the sun. The nearby pier is a popular spot for fishing and taking in the ocean views. If you enjoy exploring local cuisine, there are food trucks and restaurants offering delicious seafood and other treats.

Hobcaw Barony

The Hobcaw Barony is a historic site covers over 16,000 acres and offers a glimpse into the natural and cultural history of the area. The property includes diverse habitats such as marshes, forests, and beaches. One of the highlights is the guided tours that take you through the historic buildings and natural areas. The guides share interesting stories about the history of Hobcaw Barony and the people who lived there. You can visit the Hobcaw House, that offers a glimpse into the life of its former owners. There are also trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the property.

Lewis Ocean Bays Heritage Preserve

The Lewis Ocean Bays Heritage Preserve is home to a variety of plants and animals, offering a peaceful escape from the city life. As you explore, you’ll find scenic trails that passes through diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and open meadows. The preserve is a great spot for birdwatching, with many species making their homes here. The preserve is also home to several rare and endangered species, making it an important site for conservation. The volunteers work hard to protect the area’s natural beauty, and their efforts are visible in the pristine condition of the preserve.

Huntington Beach State Park

The Huntington Beach State Park is a wonderful place to experience the great outdoors. The park has several trails that are perfect for walking or biking, allowing you to explore the diverse habitats, including marshes and beaches. Birdwatching is a popular activity here, as the park is home to many different bird species. The park has a beautiful beach to take a walk along the shore. There are picnic areas and shelters, making it easy to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. One of the highlights of the park is Atalaya, a historic castle that you can tour and learn about its facts and history.

7. Day Trips & Excursions

Francis Marion National Forest

The Francis Marion National Forest is just a short drive from Myrtle Beach and offers a peaceful escape from the city life. The area is well-known for its diverse wildlife and trails, making it a perfect spot for hiking and nature walks. One of the popular trails is the Sewee Shell Ring Trail, which takes you through the forest and offers a glimpse into the history of the area with its ancient shell ring. The forest also has several picnic areas, making it a great place to enjoy a meal in outdoors. For birdwatchers, the forest is home to a variety of bird species, so be sure to bring your binoculars.

Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge

A day trip to Waccamaw National Wildlife Refuge from Myrtle Beach, is a great way to connect with nature. The visitor center is a good starting point, where staff provide maps and information to help you plan your visit. The refuge has several well-marked trails that are perfect for hiking and exploring. One of the popular trails is the Cox Ferry Lake Trail, which takes you through a scenic area with diverse wildlife. Birdwatchers will enjoy the refuge, as it’s home to a variety of bird species. The refuge also offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing, adding to the fun of your visit.

Wilmington, NC

From Myrtle Beach, the drive takes about 1.5 hours to reach Wilmington in North Carolina. One of the must-visit spots is the Riverwalk, which offers a pleasant walk along the Cape Fear River. The nearby Battleship North Carolina is another popular attraction, offering a chance to explore a historic World War II battleship. The Airlie Gardens are a beautiful spot to visit, featuring stunning landscapes and seasonal blooms. Wilmington also has several museums and art galleries, providing a dose of culture and history. The Children’s Museum of Wilmington is a great place for kids to learn and play.

Charleston

Taking a day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston takes about 2 hours, offering scenic views along the way. One of the must-visit spots is the Battery, where you can enjoy a walk along the waterfront and see the historic mansions. The nearby French Quarter is full of quaint shops, cafes, and art galleries. A visit to the Charleston City Market is also a must, where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs. For history buffs, a tour of the historic homes and plantations is a great way to learn about the city’s past. Charleston also offers beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for a relaxing picnic.

How to Reach Myrtle Beach

If you’re flying, the Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) is your best option. It’s located just a few miles from the city center, and many major airlines offer direct flights from various cities. Once you land, you can rent a car or hire a taxi to get to your destination. For those driving, Myrtle Beach is accessible via several major highways. If you’re coming from the north, Interstate 95 and US Highway 17 are the main routes. From the south, US Highway 501 and US Highway 17 are the primary roads.

The drive offers scenic views and plenty of places to stop for a break or a quick bite. If you prefer traveling by bus, several companies offer routes to Myrtle Beach. Greyhound and Megabus have services that connect the city to various locations. Once you arrive at the bus station, you can use local transportation options to reach your final destination. Another option is traveling by train. While Myrtle Beach doesn’t have a train station, you can take an Amtrak train to nearby Florence, South Carolina, and then rent a car or take a bus to Myrtle Beach.

Local Transportation

Getting around Myrtle Beach, is easy and convenient with various transportation options available. If you prefer public transportation, the Coast RTA buses are a reliable choice. They run on regular routes throughout the city and to nearby areas, making it simple to travel around without a car. You can check the schedules and routes online or at the main stations. For a more flexible option, taxis are also available, with several companies operating in the area. You can call for a taxi or find one at designated stands around the city.

If you enjoy biking, Myrtle Beach has several bike rental shops and plenty of bike-friendly paths. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful scenery. For those who prefer to drive, car rentals are available at the airport and various locations throughout the city. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas at your leisure. Another fun way to get around is by golf cart. Many rental companies offer golf carts, which are perfect for short trips and sightseeing.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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