Lamai has a great selection of dining options ranging from roadside curry stalls where a meal can cost as little as 30 Baht, to the first-class establishments attached to smart hotels. Some of the best Spa and vegetarian food on the island is also available here, thanks to the world-renowned Spa Samui Resorts, with two venues in Lamai. In the beach road area you will find a wide variety of reasonably priced international cafes catering to foreign visitors and ex-pats, including British, Italian, Indian and Scandinavian food. There are also some relatively new bistro-style eateries on the outskirts of Lamai with thoroughly contemporary cuisine, meaning you no longer have to head into Chaweng for top-class international dishes. Chill-In Chill-In beach bar and restaurant opened this year and has become a firm favourite with both locals and tourists. Chill-In lives up to its name; a more relaxed place is hard to find! The restaurant has several different seating areas, at and around the bar, on the beach or on wooden picnic style benches.
International chef Carsten has created an eclectic Mediterranean based menu with lots of delicious salads, main dishes and even a selection of desserts, all at reasonable prices. The chicken Balsamico salad is light and delicious or try the pork medallions with parmesan potatoes in garlic herb sauce. Chill-In also serves a small selection of Thai food and has a good choice of cocktails and other drinks.Open 8am till late, Beach road, Lamai. Coast This modern beachfront restaurant is attached to the Lamai Wanta Resort, right in the centre of the bay. The innovative fusion menu is expertly prepared and well presented. Reservations via reception: 077424 550. Coco Rico This Euro-Thai restaurant is a real insider tip, with ex-pat residents regularly visiting to sample the home-style delights of the kitchen. It's a true testament to the chef's abilities that you may have to wait for a seat. The menu uses good-quality, fresh ingredients to produce simple, well-priced yet skillfully prepared Thai and European favourites. Located on the right hand side on the hill leading to HinTa HinYai. Continental Bakery This really is the best place to have a hearty cooked breakfast, and the huge variety of different combinations ensures there is something for everyone. There is delicious fresh-baked bread every day and the friendly lady-boy waitresses provide an entertaining start to the day. Just off the ring road on the first turn toward Lamai beach road from Chaweng. Open early till about 6pm. Dr Frogs This new Italian/Thai bar and grill is perched on the hillside coming out of Chaweng Noi towards Lamai. The interesting, quirky name comes with interesting tasty food and an amazing view. This restaurant is already popular with expats and tourists alike and has live music some nights. For reservations and info: 077413797 Go Wat Another favourite with Thai and western locals alike is Go Wat. Tucked in next to Lamai market, this small restaurant serves an excellent selection of Thai dishes from eye-wateringly spicy curries to fresh seafood. With extremely cheap prices, Go Wat's only downside is its sporadic opening times and days! The restaurant will open for a few days (presumably when funds are low!) and then close again for another few. Erratic opening doesn't put off the clientele however, as soon as the kitchen opens the restaurant is full. If you happen to drive past and Go Wat is open, then grab your chance and sit down! Go Wat, Lamai market, Route 4169. Jungle Park Restaurant This lovely beachfront restaurant is part of the Jungle Park Resort, nestled on a peninsular at the northern end of Lamai beach. The kitchen serves great French, Thai and vegetarian cuisine and the locale is child friendly with a pool and shallow beach. Reservations and info:077418034 Long Island Funky Mediterranean style beachside restaurant and bar, that's very popular with the hi-so Thai jet set, who frequent the attached resort. The menu includes excellent Thai dishes and an imaginative range of salads, sandwiches and snacks.
The main attraction though is the long drinks menu, which includes the islands best smoothies and a huge cocktail selection including, European favourite, the Sea Breeze, which, due to the difficulty of finding cranberry juice in Thailand, is rarely seen elsewhere on Samui. The bars wooden tables and chairs are pleasant enough, but for real comfort the cushion festooned sala is hard to beat. Route 4169, Lamai open 7am - 2am Ninja Crepes This cheap and cheerful Samui institution provides delicious Thai food 24 hours a day. With a great selection of crepes too and an amusing photo-menu, there is also a 24hr internet room attached to the diner, with private booths, so you can eat drink and surf all night long! Located on the ring road before the PTT gas station. Rocky's A large and beautifully laid-out beachfront restaurant, Rocky's serves top-notch International, Thai and seafood dishes. It has gained recognition through top publications like Thailand Tatler and Unseen Paradise dining guide as being one of the top restaurants in the Thai Kingdom. Rocky's holds regular events such as beach barbeques and Thai entertainment evenings. The restaurant also offers private, romantic, custom-prepared meals in a private sala. From 7am-late (kitchen closes 10.30pm) for reservations and info: 077418367 Sabai-Inglae Just past HinTa and HinYai or the Grandmother and Grandfather rocks at the south end of Lamai beach is a local secret and its a bit of a gem. This Thai restaurant is perched just above the beach with tables inside and down on the beach. If its a nice evening grab a seat under the stars and relax to the sound of the waves and the soft lighting.
This popular restaurant is always full of Samui residents and when the locals love a restaurant, you know its good. As well as delicious food all made from fresh local ingredients, the restaurant boasts extremely good service and attentive staff. Alongside the excellent Thai dishes the menu offers a good range of European food, and unusually these are very well made. Sabai-Inglae's spicy and sour fish soup and King prawns in tamarind sauce are unmissable and its worth asking about the fresh daily seafood. Open 11am till late, HinTa HinYai, Route 4169. Salathai Salathai is a popular restaurant name on Samui but the Salathai on Lamai's main street is something special. Although the classic decor creates a relaxing atmosphere the main reason why people visit Salathai again and again is the food.
Salathai serves up delicious, well presented and reasonably priced dishes from its extensive Thai and European menu. They also have an excellent selection of fresh seafood and a large choice of wines to suit all budgets. Salathai is also known for its great service, with some of the most attentive and pleasant staff around, no matter how busy the restaurant gets. The Salathai signature steak is a must-try as is the steamed sole in lemon sauce with butter rice.Open 2pm till late, Main road, Lamai. Somtum This tiny restaurant is so small it doesn't even have a name but don't let that stop you. Situated right on Lamai beach, this is one of the best places on Samui to sample Thailand's famous Somtum or Papaya salad. The restaurant is very basic with only a few chairs and tables on the beach and all the cooking done on a small barbecue but the food is delicious. As well as Somtum, there are several other north-eastern dishes on the menu and all at ridiculously cheap prices. If all the tables are occupied you can take your food over to Chill-In as long as you buy a drink in the bar.Open 12 - 6pm. Next to chill-In beach bar, Beach road, Lamai. Spa Samui Resort Vegetarians can have a hard time in Thailand, given that meat, poultry or fish is included in most dishes. Spa Samui Resort was recently listed as one of the top fifty best restaurants in the world by the UK's prestigious 'Restaurant' magazine and which serves probably the best and most imaginative vegetarian cuisine in the Kingdom. Its menu is closely linked to the Spa's world famous fasting and rejuvenation programmes, and presents a mouth-watering array of healthy and delicious fare, ranging from its signature "SPA" Salad (Lettuce, cabbage, onion, carrot, tomato, cucumber, & sprouts with Spa dressing ("Bragg's" apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, garlic, fresh basil,) through ultra-light soups such as "SPA" Seaweed Soup to more substantial treats like "SPA" Steamed Veggie Platter. For fish and meat eaters there are several chicken dishes and the finest fresh local seafood, such as Mussels with Veri, Veri Teriyaki Sauce, and a wide selection of Thai favourites with a vegetarian twist. If that's not enticing enough, then you can enjoy it all at two locations: beachside in Lamai or in the hills overlooking the southeast coast. Spa Samui Beach, Tel: 077 230 855. Spa Samui Village, Tel: 077 230 976. Open 7am - 10pm. Sri Nuan A Lamai institution, the Sri Nuan family restaurant now has 2 other locations as well as the original in Lamai food centre. Sri Nuan is one of the best places to try inexpensive but delicious Thai food in Lamai.
The huge menu has an excellent selection of fresh seafood and just about every Thai dish imaginable! Sri Nuan also offers a selection of western dishes but they aren't a patch on the restaurants specialty Thai food. Try Sri Nuan's spicy tom yum soup or their delicious massaman curry. Open from 9am till late, Main road and Lamai food centre, Lamai. Tawann Restaurant As befits the five star surroundings of the Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa, the decor of Tawann s chic and understated. Get there before sunset, if possible, to enjoy drinks on the terrace - the sea view is quite simply stunning. As for the food, expect an eclectic mix of Thai and French, Italian and Spanish classics.
Dishes such as Vichyssoise Soup, Tortilla Espanola, Croque Madame and Asparagus & Palma Ham Salad really speak for themselves and there's also a superlative seafood and meat selection, including treats such as Roasted Fillet of Red Snapper & Baby Fennel and Provencal Beef Tenderloin. All in all an essential destination if you're staying in the vicinity and well worth making the effort to get to if you're not. Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa, Route 4169, Lamai. Open 6-11pm. Closed Wednesdays. Reservations: 07742 9300 The Cliff Bar and Grill The Cliff's hillside location between Chaweng and Lamai affords it some of the best sea views on the island. Split into separate restaurant and bar areas, it serves excellent Mediterranean cuisine.
Dishes like Portugese Piri Piri Chicken, Ameijoas a' Bulhao Pato (Clams in White Wine Sauce) and Gambas com Caril (Goan Curried prawns) come in large hearty portions and are a perfect match for one of the many reasonably priced New World Wines on offer Musically, there's decent chill out tunes in the bar, with occasional guest DJ"s, and more traditional Latino grooves in the restaurant. Overall, a great place to spend a lazy, sunny, afternoon. Route 4169, Tel. 01 913 2002 The Patio at Pavilion Samui Boutique Resort Well worth splurging a little here, the Patio is Lamai's fanciest and nicest restaurant on the beach. Still reasonably priced by western standards, the food is fantastic and looks as good as it tastes. The Patio's menu is extensive with choices from European, Thai and seafood dishes.
The restaurant is famous for its beautiful water features; so many infact that wherever you sit in the large open space you can hear the soft sounds of water. Adding to the romantic atmosphere are a trio of excellent Filipino acoustic singers that move around the tables, taking songs on request. Recommended dishes are the black ink fettuccine with smoked chicken breast, asparagus and bacon in a spicy tomato sauce and the Szechuan duck with sea scallops. Open from 6.30pm till late. Pavilion Samui Boutique Resort, Main Road, Lamai.
Lamai Shopping Lamai has a decent array of tourist goods for sale, with beachwear and reasonably priced fashions, good CD and DVD selections, some handicrafts, and the ubiquitous pharmacies and Mini Marts easily found along the beach road. There is also a Bookazine store with magazines, paperbacks and local interest books, located half way along the beach road. Lamai boasts a slightly smaller variety of goods than Chaweng, but the prices in Lamai tend to be cheaper, and while the stores catering for tourists also employ the barter system, it is a little more relaxed. There are also some more offbeat jewellery stores in Lamai where your own designs can be produced, as well as some funky boutiques in the nearby village of Hua Thanon. Siddartha This great clothes store has a large range of Indian-style hippie gear and some really funky, chunky jewellery. There is a menswear range too, as well as accessories such as bags and belts and cool Balinese bikinis. They have a decent range of sizes and attentive English-speaking staff. Located in Hua Thanon next to Zer Studio. Zer Studio This funky boutique has a huge selection of unique, hand-made ethnic gemstone jewellery and leather accessories. The onsite jeweller can create designs to order. Open from 9am-9pm. Located in Hua Thanon, just look for the crazy painted VW Beatle outside! Mr Samui's This popular craft shop is a veritable Aladdin's cave with silver, gold, gemstones, ornaments and scarves on display throughout the restaurant/ internet-cafe/bar. There are some really lovely and original gift items on sale, and the Thai food is also highly recommended. Located at the Southern end of Lamai beach road. Open 9am until late every day. Lamai Fresh Market For a bit of local colour, check out the hustle and bustle of the local market behind the PTT gas station. The front yard has many cooked food stalls selling local delicacies such as curries, fried fish, homemade sausages and papaya salad with sticky rice. Around the edges of the market you will find an array of clothes and shoe stalls with amazingly cheap products, while venturing inside, your senses will be bombarded with the sights sounds and smells of the vibrant fresh produce, meat and fish sections. Weird and wonderful displays of vegetables and fruit abound, as well as buckets of live eels and frogs: a truly 'Thai' experience. Royal Project Health Mart Located on the ring road about 5 minutes south of Lamai temple, the Royal Project shop is reminiscent of European health-food stores. Whilst it is fairly sparsely stocked, the selection includes great organic and herbal cosmetics, and organic fruits and vegetables, not mention health drinks and dried nuts and fruit. The royal project aims to provide an alternative livelihood for farmers in the North of Thailand who used to rely on slash-and burn agriculture and opium production, and now grow high-value cash crops for domestic and international markets. BanSoi Gemstones/Mr Samui's Walking into Mr Samui's is like walking into Aladdin's cave. Silver, gold, gems, trinkets, ornaments and scarves are in every corner and littering every surface. There are bracelets, anklets, necklaces, rings and earrings made out of every metal and precious gem imaginable! Choose from one of the thousands of pieces in the display cases or you can have your own design made up.
Once you've finished browsing, take a load off and relax on the Thai style floor cushions. You can also eat here or just enjoy a drink and soak up the atmosphere. Open from 9am till late every day. South Lamai Beach Road. DreamCatcher If you want a beautiful unique piece of jewellery, then head to Dreamcatcher near Hinta HinYai. The owner and jeweller Pin handcrafts every item himself. He can also create your own design or help you design something special. Dreamcatcher sells silver jewellery inlaid with with precious gems such as turquoise, amber and island shells. As well as jewellery they have a selection of gorgeous leather bags studded with turquoise stones. Great as a gift or for treating yourself. Open from 9am every day. Opposite HinTa HinYai, Route 4169. Telephone: 0862667572. Exotica Boutique Owned and run by jewellery designer Sumetta Sangouthai, Exotica is well worth checking for top quality, unique souvenirs of your visit to Koh Samui. Located just up the road from one of the island's biggest tourist attractions, the phallic rocks Hin Ta and Hin Yai, Exotica specialises in jewellery which is handmade by Sumetta and which includes a range of eye-catching stones and settings. Bracelets, necklaces and earrings are all available for as little as 700 Baht. There's also a funky selection of colourful Chiang Rai bags on sale and stunning limited edition hand tinted photos from celebrated, Samui-based photographer, Claudio Cerquetti. Lamai Beach, on the way to Hin Ta Hin Yai, Tel. 01 538 3444 Ginger Ginger is a funky little boutique that opened in 2006. They have a beautiful selection of trinkets, clothes and jewellery. They also sell shoes and accessories and everything is reasonably priced. Ginger is a great place to go if you're looking for something pretty but different. Open 9am till 8pm every day. Hin Ta Hin Yai, Route 4169, Lamai. Telephone: 065869334 Island books Island books is one of the best second hand book shops on the island. Paul the owner is fastidious about the quality of books he puts on his shelves so you are guaranteed that your book won't fall apart as soon as you open it. The bookshop is very well organised and easy to navigate and Paul is always on hand to give advice and answer questions. Island books has a large range of books in English, French and German and a small selection of other languages. You can choose to buy or rent your book and Paul will also buy your old books from you. All the books are priced very reasonably at around 150 to 180 baht per book. Open 9am till 8pm every day. Near Buddy Beer bar, Route 4169, Lamai. Popala House This cave like shop is not much to look at from the outside but there are some wonderful finds to be had inside the gloom. The shop is packed to the gills with stunning teak furniture, ornate carvings and religious idols in metal and wood. Be prepared to barter hard in here though- the owner is stubborn! Open from 9am every day. Route 4169, opposite Wat Lamai. Samui Hotclub Samui Hotclub also has a store in central Chaweng beach selling good quality cheap clothing. They have a great range of tourist favourites such as Thai fisherman's trousers, kaftans and printed sarongs. Hotclub also stocks some more expensive hand painted and embroidered sarongs and a good selection of accessories. Everything is fixed price so don't try bartering in here. Open 10am till late every day. Lamai Beach road and Chaweng Beach road. Telephone: 077232276 Hin Ta Hin Yai Stalls Next to the famous grandmother and grandfather rocks in southern Lamai are a group of stalls selling a range of goods. The atmosphere here is great fun with a one man band playing Thai tunes as you browse. These stalls are one of the best places to pick up traditional coconut wood carvings and shell ornaments. Try not to buy the coral or larger shells as this encourages reef damage and bringing coral into your home country can land you in hot water! Try the local Thai caramel and coconut sweet desserts as well they are absolutely delicious and a great gift for friends back home. Hin Ta Hin Yai, Route 4169.
Lamai Beach Nightlife and Bars Smaller than Chaweng, the scene at Lamai is slightly older with everything from the ubiquitous bar beers, to discos, music venues, Thai dancing, mud wrestling and weekly Thai lady boxing. (Very entertaining and free of charge at the bar conglomerate in east Lamai). Lots of foot stomping at consistently busy Bauhaus (foam party!!) and Club Remix, while Angkor - a big multi-level wood & stone replica of the real thing, often features Thai bands. Dance Clubs in Samui When you want to get your groove on in Lamai its time to head to one of the four nightclubs on offer. While pounding beats and disco lights are common to all four, the musical styles range from techno to pop music - be prepared to hear the same tunes night after night though - when Thais love a song they can't get enough of it. The Buddy Beer and Shark Bar complex on the main ring road between Chaweng and Lamai has proved to be a popular reproduction of its Bangkok sister club. With Buddy Beer offering food and beer all night long and Shark Bar pounding techno out into the early hours this venue is loved by local Thai party goers. In the daytime Buddy's has a large swimming pool and jacuzzi looking over the beach. Route 4169. Open 11am - 2am. Bauhaus in the centre of town is a Lamai institution. Hosting a cocktail night on Wednesdays (drink 10 cocktails and get a free T-shirt - you'll probably need the change of clothes after 10 cocktails!) and a popular foam party on Fridays, Bauhaus is a haven of pop music and cheap drink. Main Road, Lamai. Open 6pm - 2am. On Lamai's main street is the ever popular Fusion nightclub. Featuring 2 excellent resident DJs the music ranges from acid jazz to funky house and suits the darkly atmospheric club. Shake the night away on Fusion's heaving dance floor or people watch in one of the comfortable seating areas. Main Road, Lamai. Open 6pm - 2am.
Last but not least is Sub Club or Super Sub, located just behind Fusion nightclub. This cavernous venue is open until the sun comes up with plenty of pounding techno and house music to keep revellers awake. Sub has an excellent selection of drinks and a large beer garden outside with a huge TV screen to keep sports fans happy. Main Road, Lamai. Open 9pm - 2am. GO GO Bars Lamai's most famous type of watering hole, the slightly seedy go-go bars with their very friendly dancing barmaids. Although not to everyones liking both of Lamai's main streets have girly bars galore, usually consisting of a bar and a pole both of which are danced on by the scantily clad ladies. Stroll down any one Lamai's streets and you will soon be beckoned into a bar with both pretty girls and cheap beer. The newest and largest of these establishments, Stringfellas is situated behind Fusion nightclub and is modeled on its London namesake with revolving poles and pounding pop music. The dancers tend to look fairly bored but the club is the most modern in town and is fully air conditioned. Main Road, Lamai. Open 8pm - 2am. Beer Bars Throughout tourist areas in Thailand you can find hundreds of these small bars. As the name suggests the beer flows constantly, served by attractive and extremely attentive young ladies - Beware swelling egos and deflating wallets - a common beer bar hazard! Beer bar staff love to play pool, Connect Four or Jenga but don't bet on winning, these women are professionals....you have been warned! Next to Bauhaus club in central Lamai is Shamrock Pub a favourite with football fans but not the place to go if its a quiet night you're after. Newly opened, this sports bar boasts lots of large television screens throughout and several full size pool tables. Loud music and cheap beer abound. Main Road, Lamai. Open 2pm - 2am.
Chill In on Lamai beach opened at the beginning of the year and is proving popular with tourists and residents alike due to its relaxed atmosphere, chilled out music and range of seating areas. You can chose to chill on large comfortable bamboo chairs, swing in a hammock or lie on the beach on a tradition Thai triangular cushion. Chill In also serves gourmet food all day at fairly reasonable prices and has a good drinks menu both alcoholic and nonalcoholic. Lamai Beach. Open 8am - 2am. Live Music Outback bar in central Lamai is a beer bar with a difference. Every night the band play live music ranging from classic rock tunes to more modern numbers. Styled like an outback saloon without walls, lots of bar stools make this the perfect place to perch and watch the world go by. Main Road, Lamai. Open 2pm - 2am. Slightly south of outback bar is the Smooth Pub. Don't let this tiny venues cave like appearance put you off, every night the excellent house band play live music which you can enjoy with a beer or while playing chess on one of the many boards provided. Main Road, Lamai. Open 4pm - 2am. Thai Boxing (Muay Thai) Thailand's most famous sport and an unmissable sight for any visitor, Muay Thai can be seen in two different venues in Lamai. Lamai stadium host fights on Monday nights starting at 8.30pm. Paying customers can see several different fights between professional and semi-pro boxers. Expect to see lots of hopping around, the occasional bit of action and a lot of male (sometimes female) pride. Soi Had Lamai, Lamai. Monday nights starting 8.30pm. For a less traditional but hugely entertaining experience the small boxing ring opposite Fusion nightclub on the main road presents lady Thai boxing on Saturday nights. Entry is free, just buy a drink at one of the surrounding go-go bars. Each Saturday there are several bouts of ladies boxing, men boxing and if you're really lucky the hilarious sight of ladyboy boxing - once seen never forgotten! Get there early to ensure a good view. Main Road, Lamai. Starts 9.30pm Buddy Beer Bar If it ain't broke, don't fix it. The owners of Buddy Beer clearly had this adage in mind when they successfully reproduced one of the Khao San Road's busiest bars on Koh Samui.
The Buddy Beer Bar and adjacent Suzie Pub both follow the Bangkok template that has proved to be a big hit with the backpacker faithful for the past few years: cheap beer, loud music, authentic local cuisine and an anything goes party atmosphere. There's also a sizable outdoor area between the two, lit up - quite literally like a football pitch - with huge floodlights, and sun loungers by the sea to chill out on during the day. Route 4169, Lamai. Open 11am - 2am. Tawann Bar & Terrace Situated within the Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa, the Tawann Bar & Terrace is one of the island's best cocktail lounges. The bar seats about 30 and has a small but concise cocktail list as well as a fine wines and spirit menu.
The decor is an impressive mixture of Thai and contemporary design and the bar looks out towards the beach with spectacular sunset and sea views. There are also delicious light snacks and a good range of afternoon teas and coffees available. Renaissance Koh Samui Resort & Spa. Route 4169, Between Chaweng and Lamai. Open 10:30am - 12am. Fusion A musical oasis in a dessert of dodgy girly bars playing dodgy euro-house; Fusion breaks the mould with acid jazz, funk, soul and drum & base nights. The bar itself is invitingly dark and there's plenty of comfortable seating around the small dance floor. Main Road, Lamai. Open 6pm - 2am. Siam Bar and Grill The only place on Samui to see live female mud wrestling! If that's of interest, then the SB&G is the place to be on a Sunday night. Tamer than might be imagined, the mud wrestling is (almost) good clean family fun, more in the tradition of Benny Hill or Carry On than anything seamier. Other nights include performances by Samui leading Elvis impersonator, Richie Newton and German Reggae superstar Mr Coconut. The food isn't bad, the cocktail list is huge, kids are welcome and it's fully air-con too. Main Road, Lamai. Open 11am - 2am. Sub Club Opened in early 2003, the Sub Club tries hard with decent DJ's, playing house and techno at high volume, a good drinks selection with lots of promotions and professional dancers from Bangkok to whip the crowd up into a frenzy. It's probably necessary to mention that the dancers are not strippers or go-go girls - everything is kept tasteful. Sports fans may be impressed by the gigantic screen that looms over the beer garden. Main Road, Lamai. Open 9pm - 2am.
Lamai Beach Attractions If you are based in Lamai, it is worth hiring a jeep or motorbike to explore the surrounding environs, as a lot of the interesting attractions are located on the outskirts of Lamai itself. Some of the island's most popular tourist sites are located in this locality, such as Hinta HinYai and Wat Khunaram, so if you can drag yourself off the beach, you could easily fill a couple of days exploring the area. To the South of Lamai, it seems as though the rapid development of the majority of the east coast abruptly ceases, and after the Muslim Fishing village of Hua Thanon you can step back in time to the Samui before mass-tourism, with verdant jungle-clad hills, water buffaloes grazing by the roadside, and little shack-cafes selling soft-drinks and simple Thai food.
Samui's phallic rocks are as popular with Thai visitors as foreigners. Meaning Grandfather Rock and Grandmother Rock respectively, in local legend the rocks represent two doomed lovers who drowned themselves in the sea here, because their families disapproved of their relationship. A large board at the site tells their story in full dramatic detail. The street approaching the rocks is lined with stalls selling a nice range of coconut wood products and garamear - Samui's own glutinous coconut candy, which is rarely available elsewhere on the island.
Hua Thanon Just South of Hinta Hinyai, this fishing village is home to a large proportion of Samui's Muslim population, and still retains a quaint, old-Samui feel, with rickety teakwood houses lining the road, as well as some decent seafood restaraunts and ethnic clothing and jewellery boutiques. Whilst you may not see too many long-tail boats setting off to cast nets these days, its worth checking out the teak houses put to modern usage, with the play station arcades and cars parked in the front rooms. Lamai Overlap Stone It is a challenge to get up to these impressive balanced boulders, but the spectacular views on arrival make it worthwhile for the adventurous traveller. The steep, rough, dirt-track road leading to the viewpoint should only be attempted on a dirt bike or with a 4x4, and the last stretch may have to be walked, depending on conditions. Alternatively it is a hard 20-minute climb on foot, but there is a refreshment stall at the top and it is an exhilarating experience. Look for the signs on the right hand side of the ring road 1km south of Hinta Hinyai in Lamai Beach. Spa Samui Resort Spread over two locations in Lamai - one beachside and one in the hills, Spa Samui Resort is now famous worldwide for its fasting and cleansing programmes, and kick-started the whole trend for alternative health spas with its opening in 1992. Fasting packages range from one day to seven days and are augmented by reflexology, meditation and yoga classes.
For the passing visitor there's also massages, including Thaiatsu, Aroma Oil and Healing Clay, facials and other treatments on offer. Their mostly vegetarian restaurant (same menu at both sites) was recently voted one of the fifty best restaurants in the world by an international magazine and serves a huge array of salads and health shakes unavailable elsewhere on the island. Accommodation is available at both locations although the hillside site is much newer and its bungalows are a higher quality than those on the beach. Lamai Beach and Route 4169, Tel. 077 230 976. Karate Samui's own karate kid, Geoff Pickup has been learning the martial art for the past 14 years and teaching full time for the last three since becoming a black belt. Geoff arrived on Samui a couple of years ago to establish his own Dojo.
The school is located in the hills behind Lamai and has become a popular spot for local expats to develop their chi and learn the basics of Goju Ryu Karate. One-hour Self Defence classes are available three mornings a week and are an ideal introduction to Goju Ryu. Everyone from 16 years old upwards is welcome to join. Classes cost around 500 baht per hour. Bungalows for full karate retreats are scheduled to open in 2005. Behind Lamai. Tel. 01 968 0359 for more info. Mountain Biking One alternative way to explore Koh Samui is by bicycle. Red Bicycle in Lamai offers guided tours around the island, bike rentals and sales. They stock quality bicycle brands such as Cannondale and provide all equipment from helmets to kneepads. All trips are led by experienced guides fully trained in first aid response.
Red Bicycle also insures all rides and riders, which is reassuring as Samui's roads are renown for being some of the most dangerous in Thailand. Route 4169, Lamai beach. Telephone 07 723-213-6 Wat Lamai and Cultural Hall The Lamai temple is the social epicentre for the local Thai community. Alongside weddings, funerals and religious festivals, it plays host to some lively temple fairs throughout the year with concerts, fairground games, food and even an outdoor cinema.The temple fairs last for over a week and if you are in Lamai when one is being held it is certainly worth checking out. The musty, dusty Cultural Hall inside the temple complex houses a quaint and unique collection of artefacts from Samui's past, ranging from brass and earthenware vessels and cooking implements to wooden agricultural tools, Armadillo skins; dried pufferfish, swords, muskets, ancient bicycles, and an amazing 2000 year old metal ceremonial drum unearthed in Lamai village. The fact that there are no explanatory notes in English means that you have to use your imagination to compose mental images of Samui's bygone days. Route 4169, Lamai. Wat Khunaram The body of Samui's most famous mummified monk - there really are several - Loung Pordaeng is on display here. Loung Pordaeng died over twenty years ago and as per his instructions, his body was placed in a specially designed glass case for posterity. It has remained there ever since and has showed few signs of decay. His remarkable longevity is ascribed to the simple diet he followed in life and his frequent marathon meditation sessions, which considerably slowed down his metabolism. A guide, giving the full details of Loung's remarkable life is on sale at the Wat alongside various Buddhist amulets depicting him. Route 4169, South of Lamai Town.
Bophut Beach - Koh Samui
Bophut is really two places: Bophut beach, which sweeps down several kilometres between Big Buddha and Maenam beaches and perhaps one of the oldest places on the island, the charming Fisherman's Village, which takes up the middle section of the beach. Fisherman's Village is fast gaining a reputation that stretches way beyond Samui for being the most elegant and well-preserved place on the island. Lined by old wooden Chinese shop-houses, interspaced with a few modern buildings that match the tone, it retains a distinctly Mediterranean feel. This has probably got a lot to do with the fact that it was the main French outpost on the island for many years. Mixed in among the shops are several boutiques, selling high quality clothing and jewellery. There are also some dive shops in the area, offering scuba lessons or day dives to sites in the famous Ang Thong Marine Park, Sail Rock or Koh Tao Island. La Sirene also offers some selected tours to secret spots in the surrounding islands or some Jeep rides to places difficult to access for visitors not familiar with the island, mainly the Secret Buddha Garden. Try an elephant ride in the tropical forest or go for a fishing trip on a local fishing boat (with local fisherman) around the island of Koh Phangan.
Accommodation is limited in Fisherman's Village itself, though one of the island's best small hotels, The Lodge, and the stylishly upmarket Apartments are located beachfront here. At the western end, beyond Fisherman's Village, the area is undergoing a dramatic transformation. No less than three five star resorts are under construction in close proximity to each other. That said, the average quality of accommodation in Bophut has always been higher than in neighbouring Maenam and the existing resorts tend to attract well-heeled independent travellers drawn to funky, fashionable, places like Gecko Village, which is rave central for house music fans, and the Bali-Med style Zazen Resort.
Bophut beach is a great place to buy beautiful furniture and the Fisherman's village has some nice souvenir shops. The best way to shop in Bophut is to park up and have a good stroll around especially in the small streets of the Fisherman's village.
Bohput is essentially two areas – the long beach and the quaint Fisherman's Village. Its attractions are diverse as well: If you like swinging from trees, try the canopy walk and if you like culture explore the village and for those who need an adrenalin rush go for the Go-Karting. Whatever you choose to do in this part of Samui you'll be surrounded by attractive scenery and friendly people.
From beer and wine, to cocktails, Bophut has earned an excellent reputation on the alcoholic beverage front with the island's locals. If you seek a pleasant location for a quiet evening drink, or want to catch up on local gossip as you chat with a local pub owner, this is the place to do it.
Bophut Restaurants and Dining
Bophut is one of the best places to eat on Koh Samui, especially if its a romantic evening you're after. Away from the crowds of Chaweng but still with plenty of choice of restaurants and cuisine, Bophut offers the best of both worlds. Fisherman's village houses several funky restaurants and pubs, while dining on the beach gives beautiful views of Koh Phangnan and Koh Tao. If you need a change from the delicious local food joints, there are several elegant upmarket restaurants to tempt you. Bophut is renown for having an excellent supply of fresh seafood, whether you're in a food stall or a five star venue. So head to Bophut and see what takes your fancy... Maenam Beach - Koh Samui
Perhaps it's the excellent views of Koh Phangan that have kept Maenam as Samui's last predominantly backpacker beach. Or maybe it's the fact that many of its resorts are located at the end of long rambling pathways, affording a degree of privacy unavailable elsewhere. Either way, Maenam is still the place to be while away for a few weeks (or months) on a low budget, staying in one of the many cheap fan bungalow operations that are dotted along the beach.
At the other end of the scale, Santiburi Resort provides dependable five star luxury to those who can afford it and excellent Royal Thai cuisine at its Sala Thai restaurant. The eastern end is home to the ultra-luxurious 5 star Pansea Napasai, one of Samui's premier destinations for a decadent getaway. Health Oasis Resort, which offers all manner of new age treatments and fasting programmes, can be found at the western end of the beach and represents an altogether more puritanical holiday experience. Maenam is more of a residential area than a shopping hub but in amongst the cafes and restaurants there are some great shops, mainly selling teak and asian style furniture. The furniture stores are generally well established which is great if you need advice on shipping your purchase home. Many shops offer an international shipping service at reasonable prices.
Maenam beach is one of Samui's prettiest and quietest beaches. There are plenty of restaurants to suit every budget, from 5 star dining to more casual local venues. While the scene is on a small scale there is still a good choice of food from around the world. Of course alongside the international cuisine there are all types of Thai food on offer, from noodle soup stalls to Royal Thai dishes. Whether its a posh evening out with or simply grabbing a quick bite to eat, Maenam has it all.
Romantic Maenam, where a quiet evening with your loved one is bound to be more than sipping cocktails with your partner as the sun sets. Despite what many will tell you, this quaint coastal village has far more on offer, nightlife wise, than meets the eye. We have mentioned a few popular venues below, which will be added to as further nightlife establishments open up or are discovered.
Big Buddha Beach - Koh Samui One of Samui's fastest developing areas, Big Buddha benefits from its proximity to the airport and Chaweng Beach. It's also the best place in the north of the island to catch a ferry or speedboat over to Had Rin on the island of Koh Pha Ngan - home of the Full Moon Party. Big Buddha's long sweeping beach is lined with cheap to mid-price bungalow operations, many of which have excellent restaurants attached. One of the island's more opulent independent spas. Ban Sabai can also be found here. The main road has improved a lot in recent months and now has several dive shops, numerous supermarkets and many nightlife options. The long running Secret Garden Festival, which is held every Sunday, is still a big draw for expats and tourists alike. There are also now British pubs, such as the Elephant & Castle and Brahms & Liszt; a sailors' hangout, The BBC; tapas bar Saboey and a myriad of cheap and cheerful beer bars, all doing their bit to attract visitors to the area and serve its large expat population. Although backpackers still make up the majority of the clientele, Big Buddha is also now attracting its fair share of small tour groups and families, who appreciate being within a short distance of the bars and clubs of Chaweng and the trendy restaurants and shops of Fisherman's Village, but would rather stay on a quiet beach, which apart from the occasional kiteboarder, tends to remain pretty peaceful throughout the day. Out on a causeway at the northern end of the beach, Wat Phra Yai houses the statue that gives the beach its name and is the island's most popular tourist attraction. Twelve metres tall and located at at the top of a wide staircase decorated with dragons, it dominates the landscape and attracts visitors from all over the world. The view from the top of the staircase is brilliant. A cluster of arty shops, including Farn Shop, which specialises in hand wrought silver jewellery, surround the temple. The weekly Secret Garden Festival is a popular draw for expats and tourists alike. Visiting bands and musicians play impromptu sessions live every Sunday afternoon from 4p.m. The sessions often attract a crowd of around 200-300 hundred people, all in a party mood. Apart from this weekly happening, the area remains peaceful and relaxing.
Big Buddha Beach is home to many budget accommodations and this is where the famous Secret Garden Resort is located with its tradition of excellent live music every Sunday. The up-market Punnpreeda Hip Resort is also situated here with its Deluxe Rooms, Garden Villas, Ocean Villas and Jacuzzi Suites. If you are looking for bungalows on the beach this are effortlessly fits the bill.
Choeng Mon Beach Much more upmarket that its neighbour Big Buddha, Choeng Mon is made up of a series of bays on the north-western tip of the island, which are dominated by a handful of three to five star resorts. Most of the activity of places like the White House, The Peninsula and Tong Sai Bay is kept in-house, meaning that apart from a few tailors and local restaurants there's not a lot going on outside the hotels. Still, when guests can have their own private beach as offered by Tong Sai and the Peninsula, there's not a great deal of incentive to leave either. Most of the resorts attract an older, package tour crowd, predominantly from Germany and France. This is reflected in the food and entertainment on offer in many of the resorts' restaurants. So don't expect the Thai cuisine served to be too spicy and do expect traditional Thai dancing and numerous Filipino bands expertly playing covers of Western pop standards. A big advantage for anyone travelling with children, is that the resorts are all built on substantial grounds and therefore have all got much bigger swimming pools than can generally be found elsewhere on the island. Cheap accommodation, on the other hand, is virtually non-existent in Choeng Mon.
Choeng Mon has so many coves, bays and hideaways, it's natural that it should host a whole gamut of resorts and hotels. The beautiful Six Senses Hideaway is here, along with Melati Beach Resort & Spa as well as the classy SALA Samui Resort & Spa. The accent here at Choeng Mon is on higher-end accommodation but you'd never guess it, once outside your resort as here the real Samui is still thriving with its coconut trees, smiling locals and ubiquitous and colourful day markets.
Taling Ngam Easily the most remote spot on the island, Taling Ngam's appeal mainly lies with those who want to get away from it all in style, i.e. by staying at Baan Taling Ngam Resort, one of Samui's foremost luxury hotels. It's not difficult to see why the location was chosen: pristine jungle shrouded beaches and stunning views of Anthong Marine National Park combine to make Taling Ngam one of the most picturesque parts on the island. Apart from Le Meriden, there are also a couple of cheap bungalow options and a highly regarded seafood restaurant, Five Islands, but it is a 20-30 minute drive even from Nathon, the nearest town of any significance and almost an hour away from Chaweng. That said, if you're after a relaxing, lazy, holiday above all else, Taling Ngam is hard to beat. Given that the area is also fast becoming a residential property hotspot, this may not be the case for too much longer. |
Taling Ngam is easily the most isolated spot on Samui. With nodding palms, turquoise sea and dense jungle the area is a gorgeous tropical cliché with the accent on tranquillity. Here you will find top-end luxury in the form of Baan Taling Ngam Resort & Spa – a place to recharge and purely relax. Other top-end accommodation is Villa Beige, a secluded 5,000sqm piece of paradise. If you're looking for opulence, tranquillity and peace then book a hotel in Taling Ngam Lipa Noi Beach Its closeness to the island's main car ferry pier makes Lipa Noi a convenient choice for anyone driving to Samui from the mainland. The beach has fine white sand and there are no rocks or coral in the water, making it one of the best beaches for kids on the island. The water is also very shallow for up to 100 metres out.
There are a few well-spaced bungalow operations, of which Big John Seafood is the most popular. Their attached restaurant is also well worth a visit. There are also now a couple of beachside luxury villa properties for rent. Lipa Noi is also home to the Samui Dhama Healing Centre one of Samui's more intense fasting spas. Apart from the beach, there's little else to do in the area - its very remoteness is what makes it most attractive to the regular visitors, who come in quite large numbers. It is certainly not the place to come for a party and this is reflected in the older demographic of tourists here. There's not much in the way of entertainment in the area but driving through the coconut plantations will provide you with a pleasant and relaxing sense of being in tropical paradise.
Lipa Noi Beach is unique to Samui in that it is western facing and has perfect swimming conditions. This means great sunsets under perfect conditions. Sounds good? Well then maybe you should book a hotel in the area. The Lipa Lovely Resort is so named because, well you know the rest, but then the Rajapruek Samui Resort is right on the beach and the last word in peaceful seclusion. Lipa Noi is also home to several stand-alone villas which specialise in family or group holidays. Nathon Town Samui's administrative and business centre doesn't offer a great deal to the short stay tourist. ATM's and postal facilities are now available in most other places on the island, but Nathon is the place to go for full banking services and the main Post Office, which also has a telecoms centre for overseas calls. For anyone arriving by boat as a passenger, Nathon is also the island's main port (car ferries dock at Lipa Noi, a few kilometres south) and jumping off point for the islands of Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and mainland Surat Thani. To service the backpacker trade, a small cottage industry of sarong shops, bakeries, second hand bookshops, travel agents and internet cafes have sprung up along the waterfront. Nathon is also the only place on Samui to find 'head' shops selling opium pipes, bongs, king size rizlas and all other manner of dope paraphernalia. Given the Thais increasingly hardline attitude towards drugs, it's wise to exercise caution with the use of any purchases. The town's main tourist attraction for day trippers is its old wooden Chinese shophouses that line the middle road, selling an esoteric range of goods, including a lot of gold. Souvenirs bought here will also be considerably cheaper than elsewhere on the island. Food wise, any of the waterfront seafood restaurants are recommended for a taste of truly authentic and very spicy, local cuisine. Hotel accommodation is cheap and plentiful, but as few tourists have any need to stay the night, it's primarily aimed at the local market.
Hua Thanon/Bang Kao Hua Thanon And Bang Kao are amongst the least developed parts of Samui and there are only a few resorts spread at leisurely intervals along the two beaches on the island's south west tip. Bang Kao is home to Central Samui Village which offers upscale accommodation that stretches down a steep hillside to the beach below. There are also a couple of older mid-range bungalow operations and a few independent restaurants but little else in the area apart from the Samui Aquarium & Tiger Zoo, which is fine as long as you don't mind your baby tigers drugged and compliant for photo ops. A much kinder option is the nearby Butterfly Garden, which showcases indigenous varieties in a well-managed environment. Hua Thanon, which starts just beyond Hin Ta & Hin Yai, is similarly quiet and is home to a few long-stay backpacker resorts as well as one of Samui's last remaining traditional fishing fleets. The Muslim village has a charming atmosphere and is well worth a visit for a glimpse into island life before mass tourism. The fishermen's elegantly painted kor lae boats are very photogenic, as is the village's fish market. There are a few decent seafood restaurants by the side of the sea, which give you a taste of true Samui cuisine at bargain basement prices. |
Hua Thanon features huge beach- and cliff-side granite boulders and a hillside view that people drive to from all over the island. It's home to several distinguished resorts, not least of which is Shasa Hotel, a brand new and classy seaside resort set on a rocky hill sweeping down to the sea. There are lots of back roads in this area and visitors often get deliciously lost – a fine way to explore friendly Samui. Banburee Resort and Spa is another good spot to unwind and recharge your batteries.
Koh Samui Attractions If you need a break from all that lounging on the beach, there are lots of unusual attractions which make the most of the island's culture and island charm. Forget the theme parks and hi-tech attractions. Instead, try the monkey show or the snake farm, or better still hire a car and go sightseeing.
Take a tour, or hire a car around the island and just go exploring. While the coastline offers unusual rock formations and lovely beaches, there are waterfalls and forest off the beaten track in Samui's fascinating interior. (Discover all Koh Samui Temples)
Samui's phallic rocks are as popular with Thai visitors as foreigners. Meaning Grandfather Rock and Grandmother Rock respectively, in local legend the rocks represent two doomed lovers who drowned themselves in the sea here, because their families disapproved of their relationship. A large board at the site tells their story in full dramatic detail. The street approaching the rocks is lined with stalls selling a nice range of coconut wood products and garamear - Samui's own glutinous coconut candy, which is rarely available elsewhere on the island. (read more...) Big Buddha On the northern coast of Koh Samui is the famous Big Buddha shrine. Probably Samui's most well known landmark, the 12 metre high golden Buddha can be seen from several kilometres away. Inside the surrounding temple are many different shrines and other smaller ornate Buddhas. There is also a small market selling a wide range of lucky charms and other souvenirs, alongside numerous food stalls. Route 4171, near the airport. Buffalo Fighting If spectator sports are more to your liking how about a bit of buffalo fighting? This local sport was traditionally held as entertainment after the rice harvest but now is a regular gig with sometimes millions of baht changing hands over the winner - and that's no bull! A good opportunity to see a snapshot of southern Thai life. Lots of excitement.attracting a neighbourhood crowd who delight in a good old dust up. The more aggressive the buffalo the greater the appreciation from the audience. There are several "stadiums" around the island, most being a basic cleared area under the palms with a wall of bamboo matting or coconut leaves to hinder the view of those who haven't paid for a seat. Men pay about 100 Baht, women enter free. The fight ends when one animal runs away, usually well before either animal gets hurt. Butterfly Garden Located in the south of the island, Na Tian Butterfly Garden is a kaleidoscope of colour provided by hundreds of spectacular butterflies. For bug enthusiasts there's also an Insect Museum, featuring rare insects from Thailand and other countries, and a bee house, which allows the visitor to observe the activities of bees. Don't forget your camera! Crocodile Farm A fascinating look at some of Thailand's jaws and claws! They're all here. Siam crocodiles, Caimans, Saltwater crocodiles, snakes, lizards, monkeys and many others. Showtime twice a day 14:00 and 16:30. Located behind the airport and easy to find.
Hua Thanon Just South of Hinta Hinyai, this fishing village is home to a large proportion of Samui's Muslim population, and still retains a quaint, old-Samui feel, with rickety teakwood houses lining the road, as well as some decent seafood restaraunts and ethnic clothing and jewellery boutiques. Whilst you may not see too many long-tail boats setting off to cast nets these days, its worth checking out the teak houses put to modern usage, with the play station arcades and cars parked in the front rooms. Lamai Overlap Stone It is a challenge to get up to these impressive balanced boulders, but the spectacular views on arrival make it worthwhile for the adventurous traveller. The steep, rough, dirt-track road leading to the viewpoint should only be attempted on a dirt bike or with a 4x4, and the last stretch may have to be walked, depending on conditions. Alternatively it is a hard 20-minute climb on foot, but there is a refreshment stall at the top and it is an exhilarating experience. Look for the signs on the right hand side of the ring road 1km south of Hinta Hinyai in Lamai Beach. Na Muang Waterfalls Although Samui has several waterfalls, the two Na Muang waterfalls are probably the islands most stunning. The name Na Muang (meaning purple in Thai) refers to the massive purple rocks that create the waterfalls. Rocks and tree roots form a natural staircase that leads to the base of Na Muang 1. A large natural swimming pool sits under the waterfall, although beware of the hidden rocks when diving and swimming. The water is always icy cold, so it's perfect for a hot day. A gentle walk 10 minutes further up the mountain leads you to Samui's most beautiful waterfall, Na Muang 2. Na Muang waterfalls are easily accessible from the main ring road between Nathon and Lamai and are well signposted. Elephant trekking is also available at the Nu Muang waterfalls. Route 4169, Between Nathon and HuaThanon. Monkey Show Koh Samui is synonymous with coconut trees - there are literally plantations all over the island, and until tourism arrived, coconuts were the main industry here.
How do you get at the coconuts? Enter the monkey, considered as man's best friend, these industrious little animals are greatly prized and give a demonstration of their incredible dexterity (and not just at picking coconuts) in the outdoor theatre. The entertainment also includes performing elephants. Look for the theatre on the main road behind Bophut Village. Samui Aquarium & Tiger Zoo Both the aquarium and the zoo have many of Thailand's tropical favourites above and below the water. Lots of coral fish, huge catfish and several sharks including Leopard and Black Tips Samui's local zoo adjacent to the aquarium, house some south-eastern Asian tigers, parrots, hornbills, sea hawks, eagles or even otters who will perform for you .... if they are in the mood.
You can have your photo taken with the tiger (Mainly to impress your friends) for 100 Baht per person with your camera, or 200 Baht if you borrow the zoo's Polaroid camera. Money goes to the Tiger's Foundation, just to make you feel better. On the way out, don't forget to say "hi" to the birds and monkeys in smaller cages across the parking lot , some of the parrots are quite friendly and their language, as well as their feathers, can be quite colourful. Located in Hua Thanon. Secret Buddha Garden The secret Buddha Garden was the inspiration of one man who built several statues, temples and waterfalls, in a hidden location high up in the hills of Samui. It's possible to drive to the garden by 4WD vehicle, but probably less hassle to take one of the many jungle tours offered by travel agencies and resorts. Contact a few places to compare prices. Silver Beach / Tongtakien bay This beautiful little bay is located just off the main road as you come down the hill into north Lamai from Chaweng. There are three resorts on the beach, so it can get crowded in high season, but it is well worth a visit for the stunning scenery. Crystal blue waters and white sand, bordered by craggy limestone rock formations and verdant hills: the archetypal Thai beach. The water is shallow at low tide and there is only one area good for bathing, (to the left of the bay) but once you have waded out, the water is wonderful and there are some fish around the rocks and reef for snorkellers to follow. You can get a reasonable meal and cold drinks from any of the three resorts' beachfront restaurants, and the Samui Yacht Club Hotel has a pool for diners and guests. Snake Farm Some of the most famous scary and poisonous snakes in Asia are goaded into action by experienced snake wranglers, who dodge and weave, duck and dive, as the snakes try to grab their attention. A must-see for almost anyone visiting the island. A ringside view! Also includes displays of centipedes and scorpions, as well as demonstrations of Thai Cock Fighting. The programs are both informative and entertaining in typical Thai style. Great fun for the entire family. Just make sure your child doesn't bring home any live souvenirs. Follow the road signs to get to their location in Talingnam, south of Nathon. Shows start at 11 am and 2 pm daily. | |
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