Archive for August, 2008

Katamanda – a luxury villa

August 26, 2008 at 4:57 am · Filed under Kata/Karon ·Tagged , , , , ,

Katamanda is a luxury villa estate on the south west coast of Phuket Island – Thailand’s premier resort destination – with spectacular views of the Andaman Sea. Katamanda has been developed with comprehensive, professionally managed recreational facilities, catering both for residents and their guests.

Katamanda is ideally situated only a few minutes walk from two of Phuket’s premier white sand beaches, Kata and Kata Noi, and the bustling village style atmosphere of Kata.

Apart from great shopping, with everything from boutiques to street-side markets, Kata is recognized as having some of the best restaurants in Phuket. For spectacular sunsets we can recommend one of the hilltop restaurants above Kata, or the award winning Mom Tri’s Boathouse, just down the road.

This superb 4 bedroom villa plus maid room features a magnificent view over Kata Beach, from both bedrooms and the pool deck, the villa has been purpose built to ensure a child friendly ambiance, while the interior has been designer decorated and features all modern conveniences.

No expense has been spared to ensure that the villa is perfect for families to enjoy the best possible tropical vacation.

The estate is situated at Kata Noi, in the foothills of Phuket’s most dramatic lush tropical hills. It is on an elevated promontory with spectacular views over the bays and powdery white beaches of Kata Noi and Kata Yai. One of the two road entrances leads to a stepped pathway direct onto Kata Noi Beach.

Katamanda is midway between the newly remodeled 5-star Kata Thani hotel and the famed Mom Tri’s Boathouse boutique hotel, with its fine beachfront restaurant. Kata Noi and Kata village centres are just a few minutes walk away, with many shops and restaurants, banking and ATM services.

* 4 en suite bedrooms with balconies

* Full Sea Views

* Private infinity edge swimming pool

* Roof Terrace

* Children’s Play Room with Terrace

* Designer kitchen with Siemens Appliances

* Maid’s Room

* Laundry

* Satellite TV & Internet Access in every bedroom

* Full Clubhouse facilities including tennis courts, swimming pool, gymnasium and restaurant with in-house dining facilities

* Fantastic location between Kata and Kata Noi Beaches

Source : http://www.tropical-homes.net/648_katamanda_-_luxury_villas_in_phuket.html

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Florida the Sunshine State

August 20, 2008 at 5:09 am · Filed under Articles ·Tagged , , , , , ,

Florida, the Sunshine State has it all: the weather, scenery, natural attractions and theme parks to die for. It also boasts a proliferation of villas many of which are privately owned and readily available for vacation rental.

Combining Country locations with easy access to all Florida’s major attractions is a whole host of typically American residential communities which are home to holiday villas of all sizes, from compact two bedroom properties to spacious seven bedroom houses. None are more then thirty minutes drive from Walt Disney World Resort and all are within easy reach of
at least one well-stocked supermarket and a variety of local eateries offering great value for money.

There’s no doubt that as far as self catering villa holidays are concerned, Florida is the USA.

Florida is widely accepted as the holiday playground of America and massive investment by companies such as Disney since the 1970’s has given it international appeal.
With over 1,700 miles of soft white beaches, warm sea, a glorious climate and more Disney – style holiday attractions then anywhere else on earth, is
it any surprise the sunshine state is just about the fastest growing holiday destination.

In Florida’s favour is the fact that it’s an easy destination to reach and travel round with plenty of reasonably priced charter flights and a massive
hire-car industry. Best of all there’s an excellent supply of reliable and luxurious self catering accommodation of a uniformly high standard.

Almost all the villas available to rent in Florida are purpose built on residential developments and are without exception spacious, detached, air conditioned and have a screened private pool, double garage and a superb level of equipment (some including jacuzzi and games room).

Most owners use a local Management Company to look after their villas and sort out any problems while your’e there, so you can look forward to a comfortable hassle-free base from which to go out and enjoy everything Forida has to offer.

Location, Location – If you are thinking of going to Florida for the first time you ought to select a villa in the Central Orlando area. For the theme
parks near Orlando and the east coast attractions like Cape Canaveral and Daytona it is recommended that you choose Kissimmee or one of the other
central developments.

Centred on Orlando , where Disney and most other major attractions are to be found, there’s a huge choice of accommodation in the area (villas, condos)
all within easy reach of the theme parks. The east and west coast are an hour or two’s drive away, so you can easily take a trip to the beach.

Although Orlando is the ‘centre of the universe’ (or should that be Universal Studios) for theme parks and water parks there is plenty else to see and do. With Walt Disney World (Magic Kingdom, MGM Studios, Epcot
Centre, Animal Kingdom), Universal Studios and Island of Adventure, Sea World, Busch Gardens plus all the fantastic water parks, from Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon to Wet’n Wild not to mention a wealth of other interesting attractions just to numerous to list.

Wherever you choose to rent a villa in the Central Florida / Kissimmee area you won’t be far from a simply sensational day out.

No wonder the Sunshine State is famous as the ‘family holiday capital of the world’ and justifiably so.

From the thrills and spills of the theme parks, the allure of the shopping malls and ’superb vacation rental villas’, Orlando and Kissimmee offer non-stop action and endless excitement for all ages.

Source: Free Articles

About the Author

Copyright ? 2006, Tony Smith – http://www.off2disney.com

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Karon Rustic Villas

August 19, 2008 at 7:09 am · Filed under Karon ·Tagged , , , ,

Karon Rustic Villas is a small development of maximum 7 villas and will never feel crowded. Built on an elevated mountainside location to guarantee panoramic views and complete privacy to our customers. You’ll also appreciate the constant, cooling sea breeze of the site. Admire the sun setting into the Andaman Sea from your private rooftop infinity pool or deck while sipping a cooling drink.

  • Custody of keys
  • Handling all documentation
  • Weekly property check and in case of any emergency taking appropriate action
  • Weekly pool cleaning
  • Watering plants ( hot season daily)
  • Garbage removal / collection
  • Checking water supplies
  • Arranging cleaning before and after tenancy
  • Laundry service (actual cost paid by tenant)
  • Daily pool cleaning where necessary
  • Welcoming of tenants at the house
  • Being the local contact of tenants for any requirements/queries
  • House stocking with supplies

    Source : http://www.karonrusticvillas.com/

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Thailand: homestays and villas vs. hotels

August 18, 2008 at 4:37 am · Filed under thailand villas ·Tagged , , , , , , ,

More and more people today seek fulfilling holidays at cheaper rates. The days of booking holidays at a local travel agent and disappearing on a package tour are dwindling, as vacationers turn to the internet to seek alternatives.

Renting a private house is becoming more and more common as visitors seek authenticity, privacy, independence, and originality whilst on holiday. And if such a stay also offers the possibility of direct interaction with the locals and costs less than a hotel stay, the attractions are manifold.

In Thailand,more and more properties are now available for direct rent from their owners on a daily or weekly basis. Thailand’s real estate boom has helped develop the number of villas and holiday homes available. It is in general a pity that these properties still tend to be huddled together in the mass tourism markets of Pattaya, Phuket, and Koh Samui, which somewhat defeats the original attractions of an independent holiday home.

However, looking more closely, it is not difficult to narrow down one’s search and to locate private properties for rent at highly attractive rates in original destinations. And in accordance with the Thais’ legendary hospitality, these villas are even occasionally rented out more as if friends – rather than paying guests – were being accommodated: meals are cooked for you, transport arranged, and invitations made to local ceremonies or festivals. In short, the Thais have realized that, whilst some guests may prefer privacy, others seek a genuine interaction at the local level with the country’s inhabitants, as they seek a memorable local experience instead of a manufactured stay.

Our exploration of Thailand’s holiday home rentals led us to several very different properties, and clearly, whilst the supply is not huge, the attractions of these homes, the hospitality of the Thais, the zing of the delicious food and the promise of sun all make these properties a marvelous holiday alternative.

We particularly enjoyed our stay at “Gecko Villa”. From the outset, their comprehensive website (http://www.geckovilla.com) gave full details of the property, with numerous photographs and an online availability checker. Our email reservation was responded to rapidly, and helpful suggestions made about getting to the destination.

Upon arrival we were met at the airport by the smiling owners and driven to the large house that was set in the middle of emerald rice paddies, sugar cane plantations and woodlands. The property was set on extensive grounds guaranteeing privacy by our own pool, and the bedrooms and facilities all lived up to or surpassed what we had seen described on the internet. The kitchen showed up our own kitchen at home, and the shower garden in the master bedroom was a delightful touch.

When we said we loved Thai food, we were delighted to be taken off around the grounds to pick our own herbs and spices – including strange plants that we had never considered using in the pot – before being shown how to make genuine Thai and Northeaster dishes. The owners seemed genuinely pleased to be able to impart their knowledge and love of food – and we were equally happy to have this cooking lesson provided at no cost!

The property was fully serviced and the rate we paid covered all our meals and even generous quantities of cool beer and fresh fruit juices. And as we were there in the mango season, we were encouraged to simply help ourselves to the fresh fruit straight from the trees…

It was rare to find a house deep in the Thai countryside, and truly off the beaten tourist track, that offered every comfort for a relaxing stay in the real Thailand. The Visitors’ Book was full of glowing comments and the many repeat guests bore testimony to the visitors’ enjoyment of their stays, not only because of the property itself but because of the genuine welcome they received.

Tips on booking holiday homes:

• Try to book directly with the property site. Searches tend to list global villa rental sites that generally take a commission on your stay, making it more expensive, and in some cases try to prevent you from contacting the owners directly.

• Look for an individual property rather than a house in a villa development. The latter are often managed by hotel groups and simply glorified hotel rooms – at hotel rates!

• Travel in the off season, but book early. Better rates can generally be found for travel out of the tourist seasons, but do make sure you book ahead, as when a standalone villa is booked, it is booked!

• Make sure the property you choose has a telephone and address listed.

• Travel somewhere new! Much of the fun of your own holiday house is the way it can take you out of the tourist centres to enjoy a more authentic holiday.

Airlines

Thai Airways, Thailand’s flag carrier offers numerous domestic flights, but savvy travelers will turn to the local discount airlines. These offer frequent flights at a fraction of the price and in relative comfort. Try Nok Air (http://www.nokair.com) or Air Asia (http://www.airasia.com).
About The Author

Copyright Simon Hantly

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Sujika gardens luxury villas

August 14, 2008 at 3:30 am · Filed under Bangtao ·Tagged , , , , ,

Sujika Gardens is situated on a gently sloping hillside only five minutes from the Laguna area in an excellent location on Phuket Island. Built to exacting international standards, Sujika Gardens offers you and your family a quality home at an affordable price.

The homes and villas are on private landscaped plots of land, and designed for enjoyable tropical living. Each property will have a private swimming pool, outdoor patio areas, air-conditioning throughout, three or four bedrooms, European standard bathrooms, spacious modern kitchens, fully fitted with custom built cabinets, top brand name appliances and fittings, good storage areas and private and secure car parking. Home designs range from 320 to 470 square metres interior living area built on land plots from 700 to 1,080 square metres.

The project also offers eight smaller terrace-style homes sharing a large common pool built to the same standard as the villas.

Sujika Gardens quality and location has already attracted a cosmopolitan clientele and among the nationalities who have purchased homes are English,Scottish,American,Canadian,Portuguese,Italian and Danish.

Source : http://www.sujikagardens.com/project.html


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The Villas At Stonehaven Tobago, Trinidad & Tobago

August 14, 2008 at 3:25 am · Filed under Articles ·Tagged , , , , , , , ,

The best Tobago Villas must be The Villas at Stonehaven, which by reputation seem to offer one of the best Caribbean Holiday experiences ever.

Thinking about booking villas in Tobago, don’t even bother to check out any Tobago Villa rental companies just book into Stonehaven.

This place and its villas can only be described as total luxury. Each is very very roomy, over 3700 sq. ft., with amazing views, and a private infinity swimming pool. You can then add to that stereos, Television with DVD player, and a good Barbecue in each villa, all 14 of which are built on a hill, and designed for maximum privacy.

Add to this that each villa comprises three spacious and extremely well furnished air conditioned bedrooms, including fans and ensuite bathrooms. Even better is that each bedroom has a sea-view.

Add to this computer points, a very spacious and modern kitchen, with laundry room which is fully equipped.

You will also find a huge covered veranda, with relaxing chairs, a dining table and chairs for wonderful alfresco eating.

There is housekeeping included which means your laundry is done each morning, and you can have breakfast and lunch prepared for you by the housekeeper. Whilst all of this luxury is apparently self-catering, you then discover the Pavilion restaurant for light lunches and well cooked candlelight dinner. If you want the dinner can be served in your villa.

The Pavilion restaurant is part of the Clubhouse with a bar, and a lavish infinity pool.

Stonehaven Villas is a remarkable Tobago villa rental, but in reality it is a top class hotel, being listed as one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Before deciding to take a Tobago Vacation and stay at Stonehaven, you should understand that Tobago is somewhat undeveloped. Therefore you will lack huge numbers of bars and restaurants. Renting a car or a 4×4 is a must do.

You will also want to eat out, and there are restaurants and bars within fifteen minutes, including Café Coco, Indigo, Bonkers, Seahorse, Dillons.

Stonehaven Villas in Tobago is recommended for your next Tobago Vacation

Source : http://www.articlecity.com
Author: Peter Stewart writes exclusively for http://www.in-kenyasafari.com as well as http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com and he has in depth knowledge of the places he writes about

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Why Caribbean Villas Are So Darn Popular

August 14, 2008 at 3:22 am · Filed under Caribbean Villas ·Tagged , , , ,

You’re ready to book that trip to the Caribbean that you’ve been talking about for so long. You go online to get your airline tickets. Easy.

But here’s the hard part… where to stay? So many choices. You could book a hotel, a condo complex, or a vacation villa. How do you decide which one is right for you and your family or group?

Well, the best place to start is by asking what amenities and services you’re looking for. What are the most important options to consider before laying down your hard-earned cash on a deposit?

Space? Convenience? Privacy? Cost? Let’s look at all four features.

SPACE

Generally, hotel rooms and condos don’t afford you a lot of space unless you’ve booked the penthouse suite. Many people justify this by saying they won’t be spending much time in their rooms anyway. But unexpected bad weather can change that forecast quickly. And perhaps one of the reasons they’re not spending much time in the room is because there’s no room for the whole group to gather! Many people choose a villa vacation because of that reason alone. Typically there’s a living area or family room where everyone congregates for drinks and conversation… if they’re not outside on the pool deck. And sometimes the size of one villa bedroom can be as large as an entire hotel room. (Tip: If space is important to you, always check out the square footage of your accommodations before you book!)

CONVENIENCE

Let’s face it, there’s a lot to be said about the convenience of staying at a hotel and typically having a store, activities, concierge, and restaurants right on the premises. However, unless it’s an all-inclusive (which many find is the way to go, especially with kids), you’re paying for all those meals and it adds up after a while. Because condos and villas have kitchen facilities, they give you the option of buying food at the local grocery store and preparing meals back at your place…whether light snacks or full blown dinners. Many villas also have the advantage of providing or arranging for island chefs to be brought in so you don’t have to worry about the cooking chores. Most villas also have gas barbeque grills for the outdoor chef in your family or group.

PRIVACY

If fighting the crowds is not your idea of a vacation, then a villa rental may be the way to go. Unless you travel in the off-season, you may spend more time trying to find a lounge chair by the pool than actually relaxing in the sun. Some people don’t mind sharing their vacation with strangers, but others see this as a time to spend exclusively with family or friends. Add to that the fact that many villas are located on or next to secluded beaches, and vacation houses win at privacy hands down. One trade off may be that generally villas don’t put out lounge chairs on the sand for their guests; however many provide beach chairs to borrow.

COST

This is a hard one to calculate because there are such wide ranges of prices and services from island to island. At first blush, anyone looking at a villa rental may shy away because of the prices. But usually, once you break it down, you can rent a four bedroom villa for about the same price as two standard rooms at a hotel or condo, everything being equal. Compare apples to apples and see how the cost works out for the places you are considering… chances are you’ll actually be paying the same price but getting a lot more space and privacy by renting a villa! (Tip: Be sure and check what is included in the quoted rate. In many Caribbean countries the hotels, condos, and villas must collect a government accommodations tax. Some hotels and condos also add a service fee, which altogether could tack another 20% onto your bill. Ouch!)

So… villa, condo, or hotel? You can see that where you stay in the Caribbean requires a little bit of planning. The first step is to decide what features are most important when you’re looking for your slice of paradise. For an increasing number of groups, couples, and families, a Caribbean villa rental provides the comfort, privacy and space they desire.

Source : http://www.articlecity.com

Author : Bob Bouknight is a vacation rental owner on Providenciales, Turks and Caicos. To find out more about the island and his oceanfront Caribbean house rental, go to www.SunsetPointVilla.com.

Copyright 2005 Omega Properties Ltd.
bob@SunsetPointVilla.com

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Bali Hotels Or Bali Villas

August 14, 2008 at 3:18 am · Filed under Bali ·Tagged , , , , , , ,

One says that traveling is not an exact science, to combine between their cultures, traditions, countries and different languages sometimes are not easy. Trust an expert, contact your reputable travel agent may be important.

Most people come to Bali want to see and enjoy its arts and cultures, its fabulous nature’s views, its nice beaches, its friendly people, for pure relaxation and some for business and stay on. Whatever is one’s aim, the accommodation is one of the most important aspects in order to get the comforts and memorable holiday.

There are a myriad of accommodations to choose from in Bali, from five-star luxury Bali hotels or Bali Villas to budget one just a few dollars a night. The main tourist hub is in the southern triangle formed by Sanur, Kuta and Dusa Dua. For those who prefer the comforts of home and the relaxation of the beach, this is a good starting place. Other beach areas are Lovina in the north, Candi Dasa in the east and Canggu and Yeh Gangga in the west.

If you are a sun’s lover, then stay at Kuta (a wild and crazy kind of place) or its quieter sister beaches Legian and Seminyak up the road, Candi Dasa on the east coast, Sanur and Nusa Dua in the south or Lovina in the north. If you are a culture’s lover, then stay in Ubud in central Bali.

Thus for your accommodation what do you prefer Bali Hotels or Bali Villas? Both hotels and villas shall give you some advantages. For those who want a hotel that has a nice beach front or hotel by the sea or a room that facing the ocean, Bali Hotel is an easier choice, because most of luxury Bali Hotels that line the coast of Bali. There are plentiful of hotels either in building style or in Balinese style bungalow, both offer modern comports and excellent service, but without maximum privacy. Most Bali Hotels have one or more restaurants and bars that offer a wide range of local and international cuisines. Also sports and Spa facilities are usually available like tennis, billiards, squash, fitness center, games room, and some with golf course.

For those who want to enjoy a total privacy and perhaps a perfect Balinese lifestyle, stay at a private villa is a right choice. One can enjoy the luxury of a beautiful private villa with air-conditioned bedrooms and tropical bathrooms to dream about, spacious living and dining areas and spacious terraces, a lush tropical garden with your own private swimming pool, and well-trained house staff to take care of everything around the clock. And you’ll appreciate the comfort and informality you can only experience in a private home.

Instead of staying in hotel rooms (bed, two chairs, dressing table, TV set and telephone, wardrobe, small bathroom), your family will enjoy this truly Balinese experience. And you have much more space, more informality, more privacy, and more personal service than even the best hotel can provide.

You can even save up to 50% – 70% of meals and drinks if you stay at a private villa with full furnished kitchen if you decide a self-service vacation. Order your groceries, favorite snacks and drinks to be brought for you at the local supermarket or wine wholesaler. You’ll be surprised at the low cost when you pay the same prices as locals do. Or just ask the villa manager to do so, and a trained cook (with reasonable extra cost) to prepare you delicious meals or any special diet. And also Bali’s 21% tax & service charge and airport transfer is included on villa rental.

There are numbers of luxury villas at Bali’s hotels & resorts. If you prefer a hotel environment and services and don’t mind to pay inflated prices for accommodation and food & beverages, you can also book some villa-like accommodation at one of luxury Bali’s hotels through a reliable travel agent and still enjoy savings and extra benefits.

So, do not hesitate to choose the island of Bali in Indonesia for your memorable holiday. Bali is the most enchanting travel destination in the world, its year-round pleasant climate, its friendly people; its fabulous nature’s views, its nice beach and the absence of major criminal activities guarantee a completely relaxing stay. Because of the physical beauty of the island and its wide variety of attractions, Bali has become for many experienced travelers the “ultimate island”.

Go online and search your preferred Bali hotels or Bali villas or contact your reliable travel agent. The wide choice can be confusing especially for first time visitors, and it’s sometimes difficult to select the right Bali Hotels or Bali Villas. So just let your travel agent knows your personal needs and preferences that he can recommend those hotels or villas it feels will suit you best.

Thanks you reader and have a nice day.

Souce : http://www.articlecity.com
Author : Made Dertha was an English and Italian tour guide for many years in Bali, writes for Bali Turista Tours where he is the Managing Director now. Bali Turista is focusing on Bali hotels and villas reservation. Just visit http://www.baliturismo.com and http://www.baliturista.com.

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Layan Tara

August 13, 2008 at 4:44 am · Filed under Articles ·Tagged , , , ,

Location
Layan Tara is located in the exclusive Bang Tao Beach area and is only minutes from Layan Beach. It is surrounded by high end residential developments and 5 star resorts such as The Laguna Beach Club, Banyan Tree and Laguna Phuket Golf Club, shopping areas and restaurants.

Classification
Priced from 4.25 to 5.59 million Baht.

Concept
Layan Tara brings a new concept to premium water side residences. Developed by the experienced team that brought you Phuri Phimaan and Horisunville, Layan Tara is a truly unique development for the nature minded and for those who love the oriental living style and appreciate the peace and tranquility created by being surrounded by the calming influence of water.

Design & Space
The houses are designed to reflect modern and contemporary architectural styles, whilst allowing for the benefits of natural surroundings to enhance the ambiance. Villas incorporate western amenities and can be purchased as 2 bedroom houses (110.32 sq m), 2 bedroom houses with pool (120.32 sq m) and 3 bedroom houses with pool (154.91 sq m). 70 units in total occupy an area of over 14 Rais (22,000 sq m) and are ideal for small families, couples, retirees and those looking for a vacation home. A true sense of community is created by the onsite clubhouse, fitness center, and community pool.

Specification
Quality construction throughout gives you an unparalleled peace of mind that your home will provide you with a solid investment for the future, and a quality lifestyle unlike other in Phuket.

About The Developers
3K Property Management Company has solid ties to Phuket and currently has 3 luxury villa projects in development.

Management
Layan Tara is professionally managed and will provide 24 hour security and maintenance of all common area infrastructures. Owners may lease their properties. The appointed management company will organize all aspects of administration, marketing, reservation and payments.

The Legal Package
All villas are offered on leasehold basic consisting of an initial 30 year term plus two further 30 year terms for a total of 90 years.

Source : http://www.exclusivehomes-phuket.com/layan_tara.htm

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Deva Yama

August 13, 2008 at 4:40 am · Filed under Patong ·Tagged , , , , ,

Deva Yama is an exclusive development of truly luxurious villas and apartments located atop a hillside in Phuket’s Millionaires Mile. From your lofty perch you will enjoy billion dollar views of pristine Nakalay Bay.

Meaning ‘divine sanctuary’ in sanskrit, Deva Yama offers a perfect retreat from the pressures of the world. Deceptively simple design soothes the soul, drawing the eye to fabulous sea views.

Find your own piece of paradise on the last prime cut of land on Phuket’s west cost.
Situated on Phuket’s prestigious Millionaire’s Mile, Deva Yama is minutes from Patong’s nightlife and a mere 30 minute drive to the international airport.

Only a 500m (a third of a mile approx.) from pristine Nakalay Bay, Deva Yama is convenient for everything you could possible desire. Excellent shopping and dining, world class hospitals, renowned golf courses and marinas, award winning spas and much more are all within easy reach.

Source  : http://www.deva-living.com/deva-yama

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