Expertly selected based on real guest insights and local knowledge. Curated for a romantic experience — Updated 2026

Exploring Phuket’s Authentic Local Life as a Couple

Discover romance in Phuket's most genuine neighborhoods, where local charm and intimacy await.

Romantic view of Phuket's charming old town skyline
At a Glance
Country Thailand
City Phuket
Day / Night 29° / 25°
Local Time 7:00
September — Now Moderate crowds
Best Months Feb · Jan

Dive into Phuket's authentic areas designed for couples seeking more than just beaches. Uncover candlelit dinners, boutique shopping, and serene walks that reveal the heart of local life. Let each corner of Phuket speak to your romantic journey.

Top Phuket Stays for Authentic Local Life

Best overall
⭐ 9.3
The Memory at On On Hotel

The Memory at On On Hotel

Step into history at The Memory at On On Hotel on Thalang Road. Its charming colonial architecture and intimate vibe make it ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape in the heart of Phuket's vibrant Old Town.

Best for couples
⭐ 9.8
The Elements Boutique House

The Elements Boutique House

The Elements Boutique House delights with its unique style and serene atmosphere. Located on Thalang Road, it's a perfect base for couples desiring a chic and intimate experience surrounded by Phuket's cultural richness.

Top pick
⭐ 9
Noku Phuket

Noku Phuket

Noku Phuket offers a luxurious escape along Chalong Bay, combining breathtaking views with premium amenities. Couples will enjoy its tranquil spa and elegant design, making it a perfect romantic getaway.

Not sure which hotel suits you?

Discover ideal hotels for a charming local vibe.

Best choice: Thalang Road (ถนนถลาง)

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Cultural stroll atmosphere.

Best choice: Chalong Bay (อ่าวฉลอง)

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Coastal vibes atmosphere.

Best choice: Old Phuket Town (เมืองเก่าภูเก็ต)

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Historic charm atmosphere.

Best choice: Ya Nui Beach (หาดยะนุ้ย)

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Secluded beach atmosphere.

Top Phuket Stays for Authentic Local Life

Explore romantic hotels in Phuket's authentic areas, perfect for couples seeking culture-rich experiences.

The Elements Boutique House
Best for couples
⭐ 9.8 Exceptional
297 reviews

The Elements Boutique House

Boutique • Stylish • Quiet

The Elements Boutique House delights with its unique style and serene atmosphere. Located on Thalang Road, it's a perfect base for couples desiring a chic and intimate experience surrounded by Phuket's cultural richness.

  • Artistic decor
  • Tranquil setting
  • Cultural immersion
Noku Phuket
Top pick
⭐ 9 Outstanding
507 reviews

Noku Phuket

Bay View • Luxury • Spa

Noku Phuket offers a luxurious escape along Chalong Bay, combining breathtaking views with premium amenities. Couples will enjoy its tranquil spa and elegant design, making it a perfect romantic getaway.

  • Sweeping bay views
  • Luxury spa
  • Elegant design
Xen Pool Access Phuket
Smart choice
⭐ 8.6 Excellent
248 reviews

Xen Pool Access Phuket

Pool Access • Private • Modern

Xen Pool Access Phuket is a modern oasis with direct pool access from each room. Situated in Chalong Bay, this hotel is perfectly suited for couples looking for privacy and a contemporary escape with picturesque bay views.

  • Pool access rooms
  • Modern design
  • Bay proximity
Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel - SHA Plus
Central location
⭐ 8.8 Excellent
1305 reviews

Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel - SHA Plus

Colonial • Garden • Cafe

Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel blends colonial charm with a welcoming garden ambiance. Located in Old Phuket Town, it offers couples a serene stay with local flair, complemented by an inviting on-site café.

  • Lovely garden setting
  • Historic charm
  • Café onsite
The Besavana Phuket - SHA Extra Plus
Hidden gem
⭐ 8.8 Excellent
960 reviews

The Besavana Phuket - SHA Extra Plus

Chic • Pool • Central

The Besavana Phuket is a chic hideaway in Old Phuket Town, offering centrally located comfort with a refreshing pool. It’s perfect for couples desiring a modern yet culturally connected escape.

  • Central location
  • Stylish decor
  • Inviting pool
Ya Nui Beach Villas
Boutique stay
⭐ 9.4 Outstanding
159 reviews

Ya Nui Beach Villas

Beachfront • Villas • Privacy

Nestled near Ya Nui Beach, these villas offer beachfront privacy for couples looking to unwind. Each villa provides an intimate escape with serene coastal views and access to beautiful beach walks.

  • Private beachfront
  • Intimate villas
  • Seaside views
Lady Naya Villas - SHA Extra Plus
Walkable area
⭐ 9.2 Outstanding
816 reviews

Lady Naya Villas - SHA Extra Plus

Secluded • Spa • Elegant

Lady Naya Villas offer a secluded and elegant retreat near Ya Nui Beach, complete with luxurious spa services. Ideal for couples, it promises an indulgent stay amidst tropical surroundings.

  • Secluded location
  • Luxurious spa
  • Tropical elegance

How we select hotels

With in-depth research and genuine reviews, we ensure that our selected hotels deliver authentic experiences and quality.

Best Areas in Phuket for Authentic Local Life

Discover the intimate side of Phuket with these romantic neighborhoods where local life thrives and authenticity abounds.

Thalang Road (ถนนถลาง)

Stepping onto Thalang Road is like walking through a living museum where Sino-Portuguese architecture tells stories of a bygone era. Here, every corner is filled with charming shophouses that have been lovingly preserved, radiating a unique character that appeals to couples fascinated by history and culture. The street is lined with quaint boutiques and intimate coffee shops that evoke a sense of timeless romance, making it perfect for those leisurely, hand-in-hand strolls.

Evenings on Thalang Road are punctuated by soft lantern lights that cast a glow over the vibrant murals and street art, infusing the atmosphere with an air of enchantment. For dining, the local eateries offer authentic Thai flavors, a fusion of traditional and modern, set in cozy settings that are perfect for candlelit dinners. The area's regular weekend market is an added bonus, a place where couples can savor local snacks while mingling with locals and uncovering unique trinkets.

Thalang Road isn’t just a place to visit; it is an experience in embracing local life and romance intertwined. It’s the essence of Phuket captured in a single street, inviting couples to not just see, but truly feel the heartbeat of this beautiful island.

Best for Cultural stroll
Walking route 4 stops · Short walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (September) 60/100 · Moderate
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 9.6 · 2.3k reviews
Thalang Road echoes Sino-Portuguese past Built in the early 20th century, its architecture reflects Sino-Portuguese style.
Thalang Road: Named after a historic battle Named after the historic 1785 Battle of Thalang against Burmese invaders.
Secret Art Alley surprises on Thalang Road Hidden behind bookstores, find a vibrant alley filled with street art.
Baba culture thrives from Chinese settlers Descendants of Hokkien Chinese migrants maintain traditional Baba-Nyonya culture.
Thalang Road (ถนนถลาง)

Chalong Bay (อ่าวฉลอง)

Experience the serene coastal life at Chalong Bay, where the rhythm of the sea sets the pace for everything. Known for its vibrant fishing culture and picturesque views, this area offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life of local fishermen. Couples can take a quiet walk along the pier, watching boats gently bobbing on the water and enjoying the salty sea breeze.

Chalong Bay is perfect for couples wanting to escape the rush and enjoy a slower, more meaningful pace. Engage in a cooking class together, learning traditional Thai recipes that you can share for a lifetime, or visit the nearby Chalong Temple to admire intricate architecture and partake in a tranquil reflection. Evenings can be spent unwinding at waterside bars, sipping on exotic cocktails while watching the sun set over the bay, painting the sky in breathtaking hues of orange and pink.

For couples seeking something more active, chartering a boat for a day trip becomes an adventure into the stunning surrounding waters. Chalong Bay offers a magical blend of relaxation and discovery, making it a unique spot where local life meets sea-bound romance.

Best for Coastal vibes
Walking route 2 stops · A few stops
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (September) 60/100 · Moderate
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.8 · 755 reviews
Home to Phuket's largest pier Chalong Pier is the main departure point for island tours, built in 1983.
Sunset views from Promthep Cape are unmatched Visit Promthep Cape for unrivaled panoramic sunset views of Chalong Bay.
Chalong: Hub for diving adventures Established as a diving center in the late 1990s due to rich marine life.
Wat Chalong praises Luang Pho Cham A revered monk who led locals against Chinese rebellion in the 1870s.
Chalong Bay (อ่าวฉลอง)

Old Phuket Town (เมืองเก่าภูเก็ต)

In the heart of the island lies Old Phuket Town, a vibrant area where past and present converge. This neighborhood is a celebration of Phuket's multicultural heritage, where colorful streets adorned with colonial architecture provide a romantic backdrop for couples eager to delve into history. Wander through lanes lined with intricate murals and explore eclectic museums that capture fascinating tales from Phuket's past.

Charming cafes and boutique stores dot the area, each corner offering a new discovery. Spend a leisurely afternoon perusing art galleries or tasting delicious local street food, side by side. The town’s rich cultural atmosphere is complemented by evening jazz and live performances in cozy venues, creating an intimacy perfect for lovers seeking new experiences together.

For those looking for leisurely explorations, Old Phuket Town offers intriguing antique shops and specialty markets. Couples can find hidden gems together, making shopping itself a memorable experience. With its blend of history, culture, and a laid-back vibe, Old Phuket Town is the perfect locale for couples wanting to savor every moment and create memories of their own.

Best for Historic charm
Walking route 6 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (September) 60/100 · Moderate
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.8 · 2.3k reviews
Tin mining boom defined Old Phuket Town Prospered in the 19th century due to the tin mining industry.
Explore unique Peranakans culture Old Town is rich in Peranakans culture, a blend of Chinese and local practices.
Thalang Road hosts the famed Sunday Market Known for eclectic street food and crafts, the market started in 2013.
Soi Romanee once a red-light district In the 1800s, Soi Romanee was known for its entertainment venues.
Old Phuket Town (เมืองเก่าภูเก็ต)

Ya Nui Beach (หาดยะนุ้ย)

For couples yearning for a secluded beach experience, Ya Nui Beach presents the perfect escape. Nestled between lush hills, it offers a peaceful respite from busier spots, embodying a laid-back charm that feels almost untouched by time. Its sandy shores are less crowded, providing an ideal setting for couples seeking intimacy amidst nature’s grandeur.

The crystal-clear waters of Ya Nui Beach beckon for a refreshing swim or snorkeling adventure together, where vibrant marine life awaits just beneath the surface. As the day unwinds, the beach transforms into a quiet haven, where couples can share a sunset picnic, the horizon turning to soft hues as evening approaches.

Nearby, small cafes and eateries provide delicious, simple meals complemented by stunning sea views. Whether it’s a lazy afternoon lounging or an active day exploring, Ya Nui Beach offers a uniquely romantic and authentic local experience away from the bustle, making it a cherished hideaway for couples.

Best for Secluded beach
Walking route 4 stops · Short walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Mid
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (September) 60/100 · Moderate
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 9.3 · 975 reviews
Ya Nui is a secret snorkeler's paradise The small cove offers crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Hidden gem south of Nai Harn Beach Ya Nui is just a short drive from the popular Nai Harn Beach.
Top spot for family-friendly kayaking Provides safe waters for kayaking, attracting families since the early 2000s.
Once refuge for local fishermen Local fishermen used Ya Nui as a shelter during storms in the 1900s.
Ya Nui Beach (หาดยะนุ้ย)
Self-guided walking tours Authentic Local Life (Phuket, Thailand)
Routes 4
Pick a route

Best time to visit Phuket (Thailand)

Now (September) avg: 27°C, wetter month, moderate crowds. Best months to walk: Feb & Jan.

Live Temp …
~Day / Night Temp 29°C / 25°C
Sunrise / Sunset 6:15 / 18:20
Local time 7:00
Sea Temp 29°C
Best Months Feb & Jan
J Jan best month F Feb best month M Mar A Apr M May J Jun J Jul A Aug S Sep this month O Oct N Nov D Dec
Check Phuket hotels
Temperature Average night-low temperature, month by month. Zero line marks freezing point.
Crowds How busy it gets — traveller interest by month.
Sea temperature Sea warmth for swimming, by month.
Rainfall Rainy days to expect each month.
Sunshine Hours of sun per day, by month.
Phuket guides →

Top Phuket Stays for Authentic Local Life

Explore romantic hotels in Phuket's authentic areas, perfect for couples seeking culture-rich experiences.
The Memory at On On Hotel
Best overall
9.3 Outstanding
1981 reviews

The Memory at On On Hotel

Step into history at The Memory at On On Hotel on Thalang Road. Its charming colonial architecture and intimate vibe make it ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape in the heart of Phuket's vibrant Old Town.

Ideal for: Couples seeking nostalgic charm
The Elements Boutique House
Best for couples
9.8 Exceptional
297 reviews

The Elements Boutique House

The Elements Boutique House delights with its unique style and serene atmosphere. Located on Thalang Road, it's a perfect base for couples desiring a chic and intimate experience surrounded by Phuket's cultural richness.

Ideal for: Couples desiring stylish tranquility
Noku Phuket
Top pick
9 Outstanding
507 reviews

Noku Phuket

Noku Phuket offers a luxurious escape along Chalong Bay, combining breathtaking views with premium amenities. Couples will enjoy its tranquil spa and elegant design, making it a perfect romantic getaway.

Ideal for: Couples seeking seaside luxury
Xen Pool Access Phuket
Smart choice
8.6 Excellent
248 reviews

Xen Pool Access Phuket

Xen Pool Access Phuket is a modern oasis with direct pool access from each room. Situated in Chalong Bay, this hotel is perfectly suited for couples looking for privacy and a contemporary escape with picturesque bay views.

Ideal for: Couples craving contemporary privacy
Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel - SHA Plus
Central location
8.8 Excellent
1305 reviews

Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel - SHA Plus

Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel blends colonial charm with a welcoming garden ambiance. Located in Old Phuket Town, it offers couples a serene stay with local flair, complemented by an inviting on-site café.

Ideal for: Couples seeking colonial charm
The Besavana Phuket - SHA Extra Plus
Hidden gem
8.8 Excellent
960 reviews

The Besavana Phuket - SHA Extra Plus

The Besavana Phuket is a chic hideaway in Old Phuket Town, offering centrally located comfort with a refreshing pool. It’s perfect for couples desiring a modern yet culturally connected escape.

Ideal for: Couples desiring a central chic stay
Ya Nui Beach Villas
Boutique stay
9.4 Outstanding
159 reviews

Ya Nui Beach Villas

Nestled near Ya Nui Beach, these villas offer beachfront privacy for couples looking to unwind. Each villa provides an intimate escape with serene coastal views and access to beautiful beach walks.

Ideal for: Couples seeking beachfront seclusion
Lady Naya Villas - SHA Extra Plus
Walkable area
9.2 Outstanding
816 reviews

Lady Naya Villas - SHA Extra Plus

Lady Naya Villas offer a secluded and elegant retreat near Ya Nui Beach, complete with luxurious spa services. Ideal for couples, it promises an indulgent stay amidst tropical surroundings.

Ideal for: Couples desiring secluded elegance

Plan Your Romantic Getaway

Phuket's top hotels for couples often book fast. Secure your intimate escape now.

Compare Phuket Hotels for Authentic Local Life

Easily compare the best romantic hotels in Phuket.
The Elements Boutique House
Best for couples
9.8 Exceptional
297 reviews

The Elements Boutique House

Boutique • Stylish • Quiet
Artistic sanctuary in cultural hub
Boutique Hotel
Artistic design
Quiet Area
Peaceful retreat
Restaurants
Nearby dining options
Noku Phuket
Top pick
9 Outstanding
507 reviews

Noku Phuket

Bay View • Luxury • Spa
Opulent escape with bay views
Luxury Stay
Premium amenities
Spa & Wellness
Relaxing wellness
Outdoor Pool
Serene pool area

Traditional Local Food Phuket (Thailand)

🌱
Snack Vegan

Baba Chien Muay

บาบ๋าเจี้ยนหมวย
bah-bah chyan moo-ay

Fried taro cakes seasoned with white pepper and soy sauce.

Open Baba Chien Muay recipe
🥩
Main course Meat

Curry Rice

ข้าวแกงปักษ์ใต้
kaow gaeng pak-TAI

Southern Thai-style curry served with rice.

Open Curry Rice recipe
Main course Fish & Seafood

Fried Oyster Omelette

ออส่วน
aw-SUAN

Crispy oyster-stuffed omelette, served with a tangy sauce.

Open Fried Oyster Omelette recipe
Main course Fish & Seafood

Gaeng Tai Pla

แกงไตปลา
gang tai pla

Spicy Southern Thai curry with fish entrails.

Open Gaeng Tai Pla recipe
Main course Fish & Seafood

Khanom Jeen Nam Ya

ขนมจีนน้ำยา
Ka-nom Jeen Nam Ya

A rice noodle dish with a spicy fish-based curry sauce.

Open Khanom Jeen Nam Ya recipe
Main course Fish & Seafood

Khao Yam

ข้าวยำ
Khao Yarm

Rice salad with fragrant herbs and a tangy dressing.

Open Khao Yam recipe
🥩
Snack Meat

Loba

หล่อบ้า
Law-baa

Deep-fried pork offal with a sweet-spicy dipping sauce.

Open Loba recipe
🥩
Main course Meat

Mee Hoon Phuket

หมี่หุ้นภูเก็ต
Mee hoon poo-get

Stir-fried rice vermicelli with pork and local herbs.

Open Mee Hoon Phuket recipe
🥩
Street food Meat

Mee Hun Bai Khao

หมี่หุ้นบะโข้ว
Mee Hoon Bah Khow

Rice vermicelli noodles with a savory sauce

Open Mee Hun Bai Khao recipe
🐟
Main course Fish & Seafood

Mee Sapam

หมี่สะปำ
Mee Sa-pam

Stir-fried noodles with a rich soybean sauce.

Open Mee Sapam recipe
🥩
Main course Meat

Moo Hong

หมูฮ้อง

Braised pork belly in soy and black pepper sauce.

Open Moo Hong recipe
Side dish Fish & Seafood

Nam Phrik Kung Siap

น้ำพริกกุ้งเสียบ
nahm prik goong SEE-ap

Spicy shrimp paste sauce.

Open Nam Phrik Kung Siap recipe
🐟
Snack Fish & Seafood

O-Tao

โอวต้าว
Oh-Tao

A crispy taro and seafood stir-fry.

Open O-Tao recipe
🐟
Main course Fish & Seafood

Phuket Lobster

กุ้งมังกรภูเก็ต
Gung-Mang-Korn-Poo-Ket

Grilled Phuket lobster served with a tangy lime sauce

Open Phuket Lobster recipe
🐟
Main course Fish & Seafood

Phuket Noodle Soup

ข้าวหมี่เบา
Khao mee bao

A flavorful soup with rice noodles, seafood, and fragrant herbs.

Open Phuket Noodle Soup recipe
Main course Fish & Seafood

Pineapple Fried Rice

ข้าวผัดสับปะรด
Khao-Pad-Sap-pa-rot

Stir-fried rice dish with pineapple, shrimp, and seasonings.

Open Pineapple Fried Rice recipe
Prawn in Tamarind Sauce
Main course Fish & Seafood

Prawn in Tamarind Sauce

กุ้งราดซอสมะขาม
goong raad saawt ma-kham

Prawn dish with sweet and sour tamarind sauce.

Open Prawn in Tamarind Sauce recipe
Starter Fish & Seafood

Som Tum Phuket

ส้มตำภูเก็ต
som tum poo-get

Spicy green papaya salad that is a staple in Phuket's local cuisine.

Open Som Tum Phuket recipe
🐟
Starter Fish & Seafood

Sour Fruit Salad

ยำมะม่วง
Yoom Mah-moong

Tangy green mango salad with peanuts and dried shrimp.

Open Sour Fruit Salad recipe
🐟
Soup Fish & Seafood

Tom Prai Pla

ต้มไพรปลา
tome prai plah

A spicy and sour fish soup that is aromatic with Thai herbs.

Open Tom Prai Pla recipe
Main course Fish & Seafood

Yellow Curry Crab

ปูผัดผงกะหรี่
Poo Pad Pong Ka Ree

Crab meat cooked in a rich yellow curry sauce

Open Yellow Curry Crab recipe

Activities & Experiences

Things to Do in Phuket

Top-rated tours, day trips and local experiences — book in advance to secure your spot.

City & Country Data Thailand (Phuket)

Key travel data for Phuket — cost of living, safety, healthcare, local currency and essentials, curated by Triplandio.

Cost 💰 HIGH
Safety 🔒 48
Health 🏥 66
Lifestyle ⭐ 60
Infra 🏗️ 59
Rank 🎯 #49
Score 📊 47
Tourists ✈️ 39.9M/y
GDP/cap 💵 $8.1k
Life Exp ❤️ 76.6 yrs
Population 👥 71.6M
Currency 💱 THB ฿
Language 🗣️ Thai
Payments 💳 Mixed
Emergency 🆘 191
Coffee ☕ $2.80
Beer 🍺 $2.30
Lunch 🍽️ $3.50
Groceries 🛒 $25.00/w
Taxi/km 🚕 $1.00
Transit 🚇 $1.50
Fuel ⛽ $1.30/l
Internet 📡 $20.00/m
Salary 💵 $800/m

Phuket for Authentic Local Life: Travel Tips

Dine at Mee Ton Poe

Enjoy authentic local flavors at Mee Ton Poe, a historic restaurant famed for Hokkien noodles. Perfect for a couple's lunch or early dinner in Phuket.

Tip: Savor Hokkien noodles at Mee Ton Poe

Rejuvenate at Oasis Spa

Unwind together at Oasis Spa, known for its serene ambiance and traditional Thai treatments, offering couples packages rich in local herbs.

Tip: Relax with a couple's spa retreat

Discover Rawai Beach

Head to Rawai Beach for fresh seafood markets and tranquil sea views. Perfect for a romantic sunset walk away from crowds.

Tip: Enjoy a Rawai Beach sunset walk

Stay in Kata for Romance

Kata Beach offers candlelit dining and intimate luxury resorts with breathtaking views, ideal for couples seeking a tranquil retreat.

Tip: Kata Beach for a serene couple's stay

Phuket for Authentic Local Life: FAQ

When is the best time to visit Phuket?

The best time to visit Phuket is February and January — fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, less rain and more sunshine. Compare every month in the seasonal chart above.

What is the most romantic area in Phuket for local experiences?

Old Phuket Town offers quaint streets, vibrant markets, and intimate cafes perfect for couples seeking a glimpse of local life mixed with a romantic flair.

Where can couples find authentic local cuisine in Phuket?

Head to Banzaan Market in Patong where you can taste fresh seafood and local specialties. Experience dining like a local with a variety of street food options.

How can couples experience local culture in Phuket beyond the beach?

Visit the Tha Rua Shrine during the vegetarian festival for a true cultural immersion or explore the art scene in Old Phuket Town’s Sino-Portuguese buildings.

What are the best cultural activities for couples in Phuket?

Couples can take a traditional Thai cooking class together or enjoy a Muay Thai match at one of the local stadiums for an exciting cultural experience.

Which hotels are best for couples seeking authentic local life in Phuket?

Stay in Karon Beach for romantic getaways with nearby cultural spots like Wat Karon and vibrant markets while enjoying sunset walks on the beach.

Your Authentic Local Life Guide to Phuket

★ Best for Authentic Local Life
Dive into Phuket's authentic areas designed for couples seeking more than just beaches. Uncover candlelit dinners, boutique shopping, and serene walks that reveal the heart of local life. Let each corner of Phuket speak to your romantic journey.
  • Handpicked hotels
  • Romantic Phuket spots
  • Couples' paradise
  • Updated 2026
Asia — Thailand — Phuket — Exploring Phuket’s Authentic Local Life as a Couple
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