Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Tourists Warned Of Scams In Indonesian Travel Hotspots In Bali And Beyond

The Bali Sun

Tourists planning visits to Bali and other top destinations in Indonesia are being warned of scams and issues with travel agents that have the potential to ruin a dream vacation.

The news comes after a group of tourists were left abandoned at Labuan Bajo Marina Port in the Flores Islands after a fraudulent travel agent failed to book their trip properly.


Labuan Bajo in the Flores Islands, better known as the gateway to Komodo National Park is one of Indonesia’s five super-priority destinations. These hotspots have been identified as having huge potential for tourism and are receiving funding and resources from the central government to be transformed into what many are calling ‘five new Bali’s’.

Labuan Bajo is an exceptional travel destination that is seeing more and more demand from both international and domestic tourists. As an emerging tourism destination many travelers book their entire trips through travel agents.

Unlike Bali where it is becoming increasingly common for tourists to organize their entire trips themselves, in destinations like Labuan Bajo tourists feel more confident booking experiences through a travel agent. In fact, many experiences can only be arrange with the assistance of a travel agent.

This was the case for a group of 20 tourists, 13 from the USA and 7 from across Indonesia, who had booked a boat tour of Komodo National Park in early June.

The group was set to enjoy an extended family vacation, with family members visiting from the USA to celebrate a wedding in Bali. This would be followed by a once-in-a-lifetime liveaboard boat adventure in the Flores.

However, when the group arrived at Labuan Bajo Marina Port to start their tour, they discovered that the travel agent with whom they had made the booking had organized no such trip.

Talking to reporters one of the victims of the scam Ruth Krisnianti Utami explained that the group had spent over IDR 101 million with the travel agent on the tour.

However, when they arrived at the boat the owner of the vessel refused to set sail as the travel agent had not transferred the funds. The boat owner demanded a further IDR 50 million in order to commence the tour which the family refused to pay since they had already committed the funds for the experience upfront.

Utami told reporters of a day long saga which went from bad to worse after the family were passed about between boat operators, travel agents and middle-men. The situation escalated to the degree that the police had to be called to try and locate the fraudulent travel agent, who was nowhere to be found.

Utmai confirmed that she has been in contact with the American consulate regarding the situation.

Tourists traveling to Indonesia are urged to only book travel experiences through registered providers and with those who have positive reviews and legitimate websites.

It is also vitally important that tourists have fully comprehensive travel insurance that provides cover in the event of scams, theft or fraud.
  

At the end of May 2025 Indonesia’s Deputy Minister for Tourism, Ni Luh Puspa issued urgent statements condemning the extortion of tourists in another of the country’s emerging tourism hotspots. An Indonesian YouTuber posted videos online of a recent trip to Sumba.

In the video Jajago Keliling Indonesia hosts John and his partner Riana shared the full experience of their time in the province; the good and the bad, including the moment when community members tried to extort money out of the couple during a village tour.
  

The Deputy Tourism Minister issued warnings to all travel destination Indonesia, including hotspots like Bali and emerging destinations like Sumba and Labuan Bajo, noting “We all have the same commitment and feeling that practices like this should not happen. This is a shared task to create a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable tourist destination.”


She added, “The Ministry of Tourism will continue to coordinate and collaborate with provincial and district tourism offices so that the community receives assistance in managing destinations and increasing tourism awareness.”

   


Don't just visit Bali, experience it! This weekly “Bali Travel & Real Estate News” summary is your key to unlocking a richer, more informed journey.

Tune in each week and discover how to make the most of your time in paradise.


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This Week's Bali News

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This Island Was Named the Most Beautiful in the World—and It Has Waterfalls, Volcanoes, and Tranquil Coves



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Visitors love to travel all around Bali for its surf-friendly waves, marine ecosystems, and gorgeous sunsets.

Other destinations that made the list include Phuket, Thailand, and Malé, Maldives.


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Bali’s villa market grows as travellers shift towards privacy and value



Bali’s villa market is experiencing sustained growth, driven by changing traveller preferences and consistent investment, according to industry stakeholders.

Since the onset of the pandemic, villas have become a preferred accommodation choice for visitors seeking space, privacy, and value. This shift has led to accelerated development across the island.


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Bali And France Ignite Cutting-Edge Tourism Cooperation Accelerating Europe Indonesia Growth



Indonesia has witnessed a significant week in its diplomatic landscape with important visits from the leaders of China and France. These high-profile meetings have not only fortified existing international relationships but also paved the way for new agreements focused on advancing Indonesia’s tourism sector. The collaborations aim to enrich the travel experience across the country, with key destinations such as Bali positioned to benefit substantially from these developments.


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 Bali Airport Records Increase In Long Holiday Passengers



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Bali Deploys Specialist Task Force To Crack Down On Foreign-Owned Illegal Businesses



Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster has announced the formation and immediate deployment of a specialist team to crack down on foreigners operating illegal businesses on the island.

There are concerns in Bali that an increasing number of foreign nationals are not only breaking the conditions of their visas but also illegally operating full-scale businesses in the province.


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Urgent Bali warning issued for Australian tourists: What you need to know 



The Australian government has updated its Smartraveller advisory, urging tourists to exercise a high degree of caution when traveling to Indonesia - particularly Bali - and other parts of Southeast Asia.

This follows a series of recent incidents involving drownings and methanol poisoning.


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   Bali Warns That Tourists Caught Speeding Will Be Deported


Tourists who think of driving recklessly in Bali are being urged to think again. As leaders and communities on the island grow tired of tourists causing havoc on the roads, authorities have confirmed that anyone caught speeding, attempting to do wheelies, or driving carelessly will be swiftly deported.


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New Bali Marine Tourism Hub Set To Welcome Visitors By End Of 2025



The long-anticipated Bali Maritime Tourism Hub is nearly ready to open its doors formally.

The major maritime redevelopment project in Bali’s Tanjung Benoa has transformed the harbor area into Indonesia’s first international-standard cruise ship pier. The new marina area is set to become the face of Bali’s luxury marine tourism industry.


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New Vietnam-Bali Flight Set To Increase Southeast Asia Travel Adventures For Tourists



Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport is celebrating the launch of a new direct flight to Vietnam. In response to soaring demand for travel between the two destinations, Vietnam Airlines has officially opened a new service between Ho Chi Minh City and Denpasar.


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As Bali’s High Season Approaches Airport Prepares To Welcome More Tourists



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Latest travel figures show that last month, Bali Airport recorded over 2 million passenger movements, over 12,119 flights.


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Bali’s Kintamani Full Of Surprises For Adventurous Tourists



Tourists looking for a day trip away from Bali’s beaches and into the central highlands of the island must add Kintamani to their Bali bucket list.

As the island prepares to welcome a huge influx of tourists for the high season, savvy travelers are planning day trips to lesser-visited areas brimming with cultural and natural wonders.


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 MONOPOLY: Bali Edition Officially Passes Go and We’re On!



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 Jennifer Lawrence’s 5-Day Bali Ritual Erases Stress and Renews Energy



In a world where celebrities often retreat to exclusive hideaways, Jennifer Lawrence has reportedly found her slice of paradise in the lush landscapes of Bali. The Oscar-winning actress was recently spotted embracing the island’s serene atmosphere, trading Hollywood’s frenetic pace for Indonesia’s tranquil shores during a rejuvenating getaway in May 2025.


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Police Conduct Night Patrols In South Bali’s Busiest Tourism Resorts



Bali Police have confirmed that night patrols will be carried out in crime-prone areas after dark. Regular patrols are carried out by police in top tourism resorts, but as high season approaches and reports of crime on the rise, police are committed to keeping tourists and local communities safe.


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Uluwatu’s Nyang Nyang Beach Is Bali’s Best Secret Shoreline Hangout For Tourists



As Bali’s high season is fast approaching, savvy tourists are on the lookout for hidden beaches, secret stretches of shoreline, and crowd-free expanses of coast to enjoy all to themselves.

As beaches in Canggu, Seminyak, Legian, and Kuta will welcome large crowds of holidaymakers, heading down to the Bukit is a good idea for those seeking a little more space.


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Bali’s Oldest Tourism Resort Has Holidaymakers Returning For Annual Vacations


Bali is set to welcome over 6.5 million international tourists by the end of 2025. With hundreds of thousands of these visitors arriving on the island for the first time, there is always an air of excitement and anticipation at baggage claim at Ngurah Rai International.

Yet, one of the biggest signs of success in Bali’s tourism sector is the number of holidaymakers who return year after year to enjoy all that the island has to offer.


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Hidden In Bali's Highlands Is A Trail That Leads To The Most Dramatic Scenery On The Whole Island



From its formidable temples to its dense jungles, its pristine beaches to its imposing mountains, and its lush rural villages to its bustling market centers, every corner in Bali is seemingly a postcard image waiting to happen. One such Bali excursion that precisely fits the bill for guaranteed jaw dropping views while somehow still flying under the radar is the Trunyan Hill Trail.

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 Plastic free: Bali tightens plastic ban to achieve greener, more sustainable country by 2027



With nearly 6.5 million tourists flocking to Bali's beaches and rice fields, according to the island’s Central Statistics Office, the hope is to make Bali waste-free by 2027.


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This Week's New Special Real Estate Deal


RETIRE IN BALI – BALI LUXURY RETIREMENT VILLAS


Don’t Dream It, Live It:


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa

An extraordinary retirement haven, where your dreams of a serene and fulfilling Bali lifestyle come to life.


Location, Location, Location:


Why Bali’s East Coast is a Retiree’s Dream

When it comes to retirement, choosing the right location can make all the difference. Bali’s East Coast, with its tranquil beaches, breathtaking scenery, and pure air, offers an idyllic setting for your golden years.Bali Luxury Retirement Villas Saba Bali Indonesia

Steps from the Sea:


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Location Pantai Saba 200 Mtrs. from Beach

Imagine starting your day with a leisurely walk on the beach, feeling the soft sand between your toes and the gentle ocean breeze on your face.


Our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas are just a short 200 meter stroll from a picturesque beach which is considered by many tourists and locals alike as one of the best beaches for families on Bali’s East Coast, inviting you to embrace the island’s natural beauty.
Safe and Family-Friendly:

Pantai Saba Beach, renowned for its safety and calm waters, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the company of loved ones. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning views, you’ll find peace and serenity here.

Spectacular Sunrises:

Witness the magic of Bali’s sunrises, where the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. The clear air and unobstructed views offer glimpses of distant volcanoes, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.


Mt Rinjani 120 KM away

Breathe Easy: The Gift of Clean Air


Bali’s East Coast air, carried by trade winds and largely untouched by pollution, is a breath of fresh air – literally. Studies show that clean air contributes to longevity and improved health, making it a valuable asset for retirees.

Bali Oasis: Designed for Retirement Living

Returning to your private villa after a day of exploration or relaxation feels like a true homecoming.

We’ve meticulously designed these homes with the needs and desires of retirees in mind.

Solid Teak front entrance door Ensures strong security and long lasting quality with very little upkeep.

Bali Luxury Retiremnet Villa with Solid Teak front door entrance

Forget about the upkeep of a large house. Our villas are thoughtfully sized to minimize maintenance, allowing you to focus on enjoying your retirement to the fullest.
Private Carport:

Secure parking for your vehicle or a hired driver, ensuring you have the freedom to explore Bali at your own pace. 


 Retirement Villa AI Floor Plan

Open & Airy: 

Glass block walls and ample windows create a bright and welcoming atmosphere, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.
Refresh and Rejuvenate:

Start your day with an invigorating swim in your optional private pool.

It’s the perfect way to stay active and energized, right at your doorstep.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Pool:


Climate Control:

Enjoy year-round comfort with air conditioning in living areas and bedrooms.

Screen doors let in the refreshing ocean breeze during cooler months most of the year. Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Main Entrance with Tinted glass

Energy Efficiency:

Reflective glass windows reduce air conditioning costs, keeping your home cool and comfortable while saving you money.

High Quality Finishing:

Durable & Stylish:
 Granito-style tile floors offer timeless beauty and require minimal upkeep. Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Floors.

Thoughtful Design: Retirement Villas That Prioritize Your Comfort and Lifestyle

We understand that your retirement home should be a sanctuary – a place where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the best that life has to offer.

That’s why we’ve poured our hearts into designing villas that cater to the unique needs of baby boomers.

Light-Filled Living: Large windows and glass block walls create a bright and cheerful ambiance, while screen doors allow you to enjoy fresh air and ocean breezes.


Bali Luxury Villa Floor Living Room

Easy Maintenance:


Durable tile floors and high-quality cabinetry minimize upkeep, so you can spend your time doing what you love.

Relax, Entertain, and Savor: Your Villa’s Heart and Soul

Beyond the tranquil bedrooms and refreshing pool lies the heart of your villa – a space designed for relaxation, connection, and culinary delights.

Unwind in Style:

Sink into the plush comfort of a brand-new recliner couch, perfect for unwinding with a good book or enjoying a movie night.

Stay Connected:

Invite friends over for a cozy gathering or stretch out and savor the peaceful ambiance.

A dedicated workstation, complete with self-charging ports and ample lighting, ensures you can stay connected with loved ones, manage your finances, and pursue your online passions.


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Living Room Work Station

Embrace Nature’s Tranquility:

Step into your private courtyard garden, a serene oasis where you can meditate, enjoy your morning coffee, or simply bask in the beauty of nature.

This lush green space, visible from both bedrooms and the living room, adds a touch of serenity to your everyday life.


Luxury Retirement Villa Courtyard Garden

Gather & Celebrate:


The dining area, with its elegant solid teak table and seating for four, sets the stage for memorable meals with family and friends.


Enjoy delicious food, share stories, and create lasting memories in this inviting space.

Culinary Delights:

The well-appointed kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring:

Ample counter space and storage.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Kitchen

Fully electric kitchen with electric oven and electric induction stove for safety and easy cleaning.


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Kitchen

A huge refrigerator with two doors for freezer and refrigerator

Custom-made cabinetry adds a touch of elegance, provides even more convenience.

With affordable housekeeping services readily available, you can spend less time on chores and more time enjoying your retirement.

Your Private Sanctuary: Luxurious Bedrooms and Spa-Like Bathrooms


Retreat to the tranquility of your master suite, a haven of relaxation and comfort designed with your well-being in mind.


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Master Bedroom East View

Thoughtful Touches:

Custom-Designed: Every detail, from the spacious bed to the ample wardrobe space, has been carefully considered to create a luxurious and functional space.

Vanity Area: A well-lit vanity with a large mirror ensures you can prepare for your day in style.

Reading Nook: Curl up with a good book in the cozy reading corner, complete with perfect lighting.

Huge closets and wardrobes with plenty of storage space

Massive Backdrop with makeup mirror and table with plenty of natural light.


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Master Bedroom Backdrop Make Up Table

Huge Wardrobes to fill with new Clothing

Master Bedroom Huge Wardrobes

A large mirror is included to check out your latest Bali purchases.


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Large mirror

Spa-Like Bathroom:

Indulge in the ultimate pampering experience in your elegant bathroom, featuring:

Dual Sinks: His and hers sinks offer convenience and add a touch of luxury.

Soaking Tub: Relax and unwind in the spacious tub, complete with a safety handle for easy access.

Relax and unwind as you enjoy your courtyard garden

Open the screen window and have fresh air come into your bathtub. How nice is that?


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Master Bathroom

Open-Air Shower: 

Enjoy a refreshing shower while taking in the view of your private courtyard garden.


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Master Bathroom Shower

Elegant guest bedroom and bathroom:

 Your guests will feel equally pampered in the comfortable guest bedroom, which boasts many of the same features as the master suite, including a courtyard view, a large bed, and ample storage.

The private bathroom offers a full-size shower for added convenience.

Guest Suite: Comfort and Convenience:Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom
Your guests will feel right at home in the comfortable and well-appointed guest suite.

It also has a beautiful view of the garden court which allows lots of light for the makeup mirror and the full sized dressing mirror.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom

The screen window can also be opened to allow fresh ocean breezes.

With its own private bathroom and ample wardrobe space, it’s the perfect place for friends and family to stay when they visit.


Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom TV Backdrop

Lovely bathroom with shower.

This guest bedroom comes equipped with a slightly smaller bathroom but still with a loveless sink and full size shower and toilet.

Security and Peace of Mind:

We understand the importance of feeling safe and secure in your retirement home. While our community is known for its tranquility, we offer the option of full-time security services for added peace of mind.


Bali Luxury Villa 1 A Night

Call to Action:

Experience the luxury and comfort of our thoughtfully designed Bali Luxury Retirement Villa .

Contact us today to schedule a tour and discover the perfect place to call home in Bali.

Unmatched Location: Your Gateway to the Best of Bali.

Location is paramount, and our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas offer the ideal setting for a fulfilling retirement.

With 27 years of experience building in Bali, we have handpicked this location to provide the perfect blend of convenience, tranquility, and access to essential amenities.


Healthcare at Your Fingertips:

Peace of mind comes from knowing that quality healthcare is nearby.

The Kasih Ibu Hospital, just a 5-minute drive away, provides excellent emergency care and a range of wellness programs for baby boomers.
Kasih Ibu Hospital Saba 5 Min Drive

For more specialized needs, the brand-new Bali International Hospital, a 20-minute drive, offers world-class medical services, including anti-aging treatments and specialized care.

 


Bali International Hospital 20 Min Drive

Modern Conveniences:

A short drive brings you to the vibrant heart of Sanur, where the new Icon Mall offers a plethora of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Stroll along the 6-kilometer white sand beach, indulge in a spa treatment, or stock up on groceries at one of the modern supermarkets.


New Bali Icon Mall Sanur Billed a son of Largest in S/E Asia Now Open

Affordable Luxury:

Experience the ease and convenience of Bali living. Fresh fish, local produce, and even coconuts can be delivered right to your door at a fraction of the cost back home.
Plus, affordable housekeeping services allow you to spend your time enjoying retirement, not doing chores.

Retiree for up to 70 % Less


Cost of Retiring Up to 70% Less

Bali’s low cost of living, combined with the potential for rental income from your villa, allows you to stretch your retirement savings further and enjoy a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle.

Don’t miss out!

Only one Villa available at this time – Discounted by 5%

Experience the benefits of a prime location in Bali. Contact us today to learn more about our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas and start planning your dream retirement.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villas present a unique opportunity. Here, your retirement dreams and financial goals can intertwine.

Affordable Luxury: 

Bali’s low cost of living lets you enjoy a luxurious lifestyle without depleting your savings.

Imagine daily massages, gourmet dining, and exciting adventures, all within your reach.

Family Haven: Your loved ones will be eager to visit you in paradise. No more worrying about expensive flights for family reunions – they’ll be booking their tickets as soon as they can!

Investment Potential: Bali’s real estate market is booming, especially for properties catering to retirees. With long-term lease options and strong rental demand, your villa can generate a steady income stream, adding to your financial security.

The Numbers Make Sense:

Starting at just 4.6 Miliar IDR (for other currencies exchange rates click here), our villas are a fraction of the cost of comparable properties in many Western countries.
Secure Long Term Leases Included:

Secure Your Bali Legacy:
 

Unprecedented Long Lease with Two Extensions Included at no extra cost

Forget the typical Bali lease worries. We offer you an unparalleled opportunity to own your tropical paradise for up to three generations.

Consecutive Leases, One Owner: This is not just a lease; it’s a legacy. Legally secure three consecutive leases in your name, providing you with total ownership for two to three times longer than most leases.

Unmatched Flexibility & Control: Resell your lease, pass it on to loved ones, or simply enjoy your villa for many decades to come. The choice is entirely yours.

Prime Location, Exclusive Clientele: Nestled in a sought-after area, our villas cater to discerning individuals aged 55-75 seeking a luxurious and tranquil lifestyle.

Stand Out From the Crowd: Most Bali villas come with remaining lease terms of 20-30 years. Your exceptional long term leases is an exceptional investment, offering peace of mind and long-term value.

Interested in learning more about this unique opportunity? We prefer to discuss the details in private.

Please contact us to schedule a personalized consultation.


Potential for Hudge Profits:


Your base cost over the term of the leases equals only 57,500,000 IDR per Year or 791,666 per month.


Estimated monthly rental incomes for similar villas at our currrent rental rates equal 20,000,000 Idr to 30 million Rupiah per month.

You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out your villa can become a lucrative investment, allowing you to enjoy your retirement while building your wealth.

You may in fact want to purchase two. One for your retirement and one for strictly investment which can also be utilized from time to time to accommodate the multiple amount of children, grandchildren and friends that will want to come visit you in Bali which is currently the second most sought after destination in the world.

Live Your Dream, Grow Your Wealth:

Imagine a retirement where you can indulge in your passions, travel, and spend quality time with loved ones, all while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle and watching your investment flourish.

ONLY ONE PROPERTY AVAILABLE.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY –ACT NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT:




We only have BLRV-A-1 available for sale at this moment.

Priced To Sell:

Discounted 5 % Until Oct 30 th. 2024.

Sales Price 4.48 Miliar

Live in the place the world is raving about!
Contact us today to learn more about this Great retirement opportunity


For English or Bahasa Indonesia call Azizah, a registered Notaris at +62 811-3864-993


For information or inspection in Bahasa Indonesia contact the President’s Spouse and Licensed Indonesian Notaris Azizah at +62 811-3864-993 or the English and Indonesian Sales Staff at +62-361-284069


Email: info@bestbalirealestate.com

“The owners of this company are the perfect combination of long-time international experience and in-depth subject-matter knowledge and relevant local expertise, networking, and the right licenses to run this business and advise their clients. The properties on offer are at prime locations with huge growth”


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