Last-minute Christmas Present Ideas

A year has flown by like whooshh, and suddenly, here we are again at the most wonderful time of the year. I absolutely love Christmas – everything from holiday planning and baking to shopping for presents. But having a full-time job means I don’t always have the time to indulge in all of those festive activities as much as I’d like.

So during this busiest season, online shopping has become my ultimate lifesaver. Living in Bali comes with its perks, but when it comes to finding certain items, the options can be limited, but you can find almost anything online!

If you’re still on the hunt for last-minute Christmas presents ideas, here are a few suggestions from Kata Bella to help you out.

For mum

Mothers will appreciate anything we give them, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t put some thought into it. I get that not every mum loves cooking, and not every mum is into feminine things like jewellery. But whether your mum spends her days in the kitchen, at the office, or juggling a bit of everything, the hands that care for the whole family deserve a little pampering. A good hand lotion or treatment set can go a long way in showing her just how much you notice and appreciate everything she does! And my go to local brand is Bali Soap.

Image credit: Bali Soap Instagram

For dad

I don’t know why, but I always associate dads with coffee. Maybe because they are always working and need their caffeine fix (it’s just my theory, lol). I’ve gifted these Sudana Family coffee beans from Satu Satu to a few dads, and they all loved it. If you’re unsure how they like to brew their coffee, it’s always safer to go with whole beans instead of ground coffee. That way, they can grind it fresh and make it just the way they like it.

Image credit: Satu Satu Coffee Company Instagram

For the eco-conscious or sporty friends

You really can’t go wrong with a cute tumbler! It’s practical, thoughtful, and helps them stay hydrated while saving the planet – what’s not to love? There’s this local brand called V Paper Co. that’s rolled out Christmas special designs that are perfect for the season. I’ve shopped with them for presents twice, and both times were a hit!

Image credit: V Paper Co. Tokopedia

For the picky ones

We all have that one brother or guy friend who’s impossible to shop for. But here’s the thing – most guys have one thing in common: they wear shorts. Whether it’s lounging at home, hanging out, or heading to the beach, shorts are a necessity, and black is a safe colour. Uniqlo has been my go-to for this kind of gift (success rate; 100%, based on experience). Another option is a black windbreaker jacket. Practical, stylish, and something they’ll actually wear.

Image credit: Uniqlo Indonesia Website

For the people you like…but don’t really know

When it comes to work colleagues, bosses, business partners, teachers, or neighbours – those you may not know well but still want to show your appreciation, hampers are a classic choice. A quick search on Instagram or e-commerce sites will reveal a gazillion Christmas hamper options, from IDR 100K to 1M. To save you the trouble, here I’ve picked one from Mena Cookies that’s both decent and not too pricey.

Image credit: Mena Cookies Instagram

Hope you find these ideas useful! Remember, it’s not about how much you spend – it’s the thought behind it that counts. So take a deep breath, get those last-minute gifts sorted, and enjoy the most magical time of the year. Merry Christmas and happy gifting!

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28 Jul 2026 by Teman Bella in Asia

A Nostalgic Escape: Where to Stay and Eat in Yogyakarta

NOSTALGIC TRAVEL TO YOGYAKARTA - an article by Anne Diana Putri Eight years later, I came back for ArtJog (annual contemporary art festival in Yogyakarta) - but stayed for everything else. Eight years. That's how long it had been since my last trip to Yogyakarta - or Jogja, as Indonesians lovingly call it. Funny how a city can stay frozen in your memory, only to surprise you when you finally return. This time, my excuse was ArtJog. But somewhere between gallery hopping, bowls of gudeg (Yogyakarta's signature jackfruit dish) at breakfast, sipping specialty coffee, discovering century-old jamu (herbal drink) recipes, and taking the slow train to Solo, I realised I wasn't revisiting Yogyakarta. I was meeting a completely different version of it. Flying from Bali takes only one hour and fifty minutes - almost the same as flying to Jakarta. Yet somehow, the moment I stepped outside the airport, life immediately moved at a different pace. The new Yogyakarta International Airport feels modern, spacious, and surprisingly efficient. A direct airport train takes only thirty minutes to downtown for IDR 75,000, making the city more accessible than ever. But what fascinated me wasn't the infrastructure. It was how confidently Jogja has grown. For years, people have known it simply as Kota Pelajar (the city of students). Today? I'd call it Indonesia's Creative Capital. A place where heritage and contemporary culture coexist effortlessly. Traditional markets sit comfortably beside minimalist cafés. Ancient recipes share the spotlight with experimental tasting menus. Artists, coffee roasters, chefs, historians, and young entrepreneurs all seem to speak the same language: "Create something meaningful." Unlike Jakarta, which constantly asks you to move faster, or Bali, which often feels curated for visitors, Jogja simply exists. Quietly. Confidently. Authentically. And perhaps that's exactly why it keeps pulling people back. You may also like this article: 5 Co-working Spaces in Jogja to Get Things Done WHERE I STAYEDGrand Hotel de DjokjaCasa Wirabrajan LOCAL EATERIESGudeg SaganSate Kambing Tjokro Gembira LokaPasar NgasemCOFFEE SHOPSBergamot KoffieSpace RoasteryTadasih CoffeeINDONESIAN SPICE & HERBAL MEDICINE STOREBhumi BhuvanaJamu GinggangHotel Tentrem Pattiserie INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT & LATE NIGHT GELATO CRAVEMediterranea Restaurant by KamilMichael Kreme Gelato Malioboro WHERE I STAYED Grand Hotel de Djokja If you're visiting Jogja for the first time, this is probably where I'd tell you to stay. The location couldn't be better - perfectly positioned between Tugu Station and Malioboro, allowing you to explore the city's heritage on foot. One experience I particularly loved was the hotel's traditional portrait session. Guests can wear Javanese kebaya and beskap (traditional attire) while being photographed inside the heritage property. It sounds touristy, and it is - but in the best possible way. Sometimes embracing local culture begins by simply dressing the part. 📍Google Map: Grand Hotel de Djokja Casa Wirabrajan If ArtJog is your main destination, Casa Wirabrajan offers an entirely different experience. Simple, affordable, and surrounded by creative energy, it's located in the same area of the Jogja National Museum. The neighborhood has quietly evolved into one of the city's most interesting creative districts, filled with cafés, local eateries, live music, and artists gathering long after sunset. 📍Google Map: Casa Wirabrajan From left to right: Grand Hotel de Djokja Heritage, Casa Wirabrajan, and Jogja National Museum area LOCAL EATERIES Gudeg Sagan Locals call it "gudeg basah" (wet gudeg). Established in 2003, it brought fresh love to Jogja’s iconic gudeg, since the city’s version is normally the dry type. You can’t make a reservation - just find a table and a server will come to you. They have two branches across Jogja, and yes, it’s completely normal to eat gudeg for breakfast here. 📍Google Map: Gudeg Sagan Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka Famous for Sate Buntel, Sate Kronyos, and Sate Klathak (different types of mutton satays) - the most satisfying meal and the ultimate protein load. 📍Google Map: Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka Pasar Ngasem A traditional market famous among locals for legendary eateries, such as: Jenang Yu Jamilah (Jamilah's sweet porridge), Warung Makan Bu Sirep (Sirep's eatery), Gudeg Yu Djum (Djum's gudeg), and other iconic Javanese delicacies. Pro tip: come to this market as early as 7am, stroll around, and try the food and drinks - then walk to Tamansari, the water temple, to explore the landmark. 📍Google Map: Pasar Ngasem From left to right: Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka and Gudeg Sagan COFFEE SHOPS Bergamot Koffie A new, chic spot with a vibrant interior and some of the best dirty coffee I’ve had in Jogja - plus a good burger if you’re hungry and missing something comforting. 📍Google Map: Bergamot Koffie Space Roastery A local chain with 6 branches across Jogja - each with a different mood and ambiance, but consistent coffee at every branch I visited. Their signature is Es Kopi Susu Dolce (sweet iced coffee), along with manual brews, and you can take away merch and coffee beans too. 📍Google Map: Space Roastery CCC Tadasih Coffee A unique boutique coffee shop run by Mas Ferza himself. It only has 17 seats and opens just four days a week, so check Google to make sure they’re open. Ferza is a passionate host who offers 8 types of coffee beans from around Indonesia and beyond, with specialty coffee priced from just 35K per cup. As unbelievable as it sounds, he even publishes a monthly transparency book for Tadasih, covering how much of each bean has sold, average prices, and how many origins he covers. His mission is simply to turn regular guests into friends through genuine conversation - and please, order the toast, it’s incredible. 📍Google Map: Langenarjan 29 (RSVP only) From left to right: Space Roastery, Tadasih toast, Bergamot exterior INDONESIAN SPICE & HERBAL MEDICINE STORE Bhumi Bhuvana A very special place to discover rare ingredients from all over Indonesia, like sea salts from Bali, Cirebon, and Kalimantan, which you can taste on the spot - plus palm sugar from the Baduy people of Kalimantan. They offer a bookable walking tour, but you can also just pop in for the day and try the home-cooked meals the staff prepares daily, drawn straight from legendary Indonesian cookbooks like Mustika Rasa. The staff will welcome you warmly and guide you through a side of Indonesian gastronomy most of us never get to touch. The space is small, so give them a heads-up before you visit. 📍Google Map: Bhumi Bhuvana Jamu Ginggang Jamu is famous throughout Indonesia, and it was born in Java. This place is special because it’s run by the original acaraki, a Javanese herbalist once appointed by the city’s mayor, located in the Pakualaman area. Stepping in feels like traveling back to 1950, when this place was first established. Using real spices, you simply tell the lady at the counter how you’re feeling, and she’ll make you a bespoke jamu - in a world full of cocktail bars, this place existed long before the glitz. It’s a privilege to experience a place like this today, both as a homage and a history lesson. 📍Google Map: Jamu Ginggang Hotel Tentrem Pattiserie The birthplace of Tolak Angin, Indonesia’s famous instant herbal medicine, this hotel lets you explore the brand’s other creations. In the lobby of Hotel Tentrem Jogja, you can enjoy an afternoon tea with Tolak Angin ice cream, takeaway chocolate pralines, and popsicles - all made from Tolak Angin. 📍Google Map: Hotel Tentrem Form left to right: Bhumi Bhuvana entrance and its collection, Jamu Ginggang INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT & LATE NIGHT GELATO CRAVE Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil One of the most visited restaurants for both international and domestic tourists. It offers an array of international dishes, from pizza to hummus to steak frites to chocolate mousse. The affordable prices are a highlight, but the food itself is genuinely good and consistent. It’s a fine casual dining restaurant with none of the intimidation that ambiance can sometimes bring. The wine of the month is excellent too, at half the price of Bali or Jakarta - Bordeaux included. Do make a reservation, though, or you won’t get a proper seat. 📍Google Map: Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil Michael Kreme Gelato Malioboro A new gelato hotspot open until 2am - sounds like a good deal to me. The gelato itself is solid, but the bonus is the café next door, Blue Butter, which has a giant 4D cat installation with blinking eyes that draws crowds in for a photo. Quite a scene to stumble on in Jogja. 📍Google Map: Michael Kreme Gelato Malioboro Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil Yogyakarta was everything I hoped it would be and more. From wandering through historic landmarks and hunting down local favourites to discovering hidden cafés and cultural gems, every day brought something new. But the journey doesn't end here. Next up, we're heading east to Solo, another city rich in Javanese culture, heritage, and unforgettable eats. Stay tuned for the next chapter of this Central Java adventure on my next article!

18 Jun 2026 by Bella in Lifestyle

Where to Go for Live Music in Canggu: Your Guide to Chill Night Outs

Live Music in Canggu I’ve written many articles about places to eat in Canggu for lunch and dinner - but now...where do we go after dinner for a chill night out? I’m not really into partying anymore (those days are behind me, lol), but I do enjoy catching up with friends over music that isn’t too loud, with a glass of wine or an Aperol Spritz in hand. Canggu after hours has a different kind of energy. The night is still young, but things slow down a little. The good thing about this neighbourhood is that you don’t have to look very far to find live music spots perfect for a relaxed night out. Here are some of the places I enjoy, along with a few recommendations from friends. You may also like this article: My Little Canggu Restaurant List - Part 1 Black Sand Brewery: A Favourite Among Canggu's Millennial CrowdThe Barn: Live Music Every NightFull House: Live music, movie night, and moreClub House Pererenan: The New Kid on the Block with Great Live BandsDeus Ex Machina: Still One of Canggu’s Most Iconic SpotsGimme Shelter: For Rock, Punk, and Alternative Music Fans Black Sand Brewery: A Favourite Among Canggu's Millennial Crowd Here’s why I feel like Black Sand is made for my generation (umm yes, I’m one of those late-30s millennials). Their live music and jukebox DJ sessions often feature songs we either grew up with or listened to back in our uni days, with the volume set just right for singing along without having to shout across the table. The vibe is more about good conversations and catching up with friends than all-night partying. Plus, they serve proper food - because...at this age, we’re just as excited about what’s on the plate as we are about what’s in the glass, right? And lastly, they wrap things up at midnight. Perfect! Because we need our beauty sleep. Google Map: Black Sand Brewery Image credit: Black Sand Brewery Instagram The Barn: Live Music Every Night A cute vintage British pub in the heart of Canggu - the kind of place you go to with friends where “let’s just stop by for one drink” somehow turns into a few hours...and a few more drinks. With cosy vibes, good food, live music, and live sports, it’s an easy spot to spend an afternoon or evening catching up with friends. Unlike some of Canggu’s bigger party venues, here you can actually enjoy the music, have a proper conversation, and remember everything the next morning (if you don't drink too much, I mean). Google Map: The Barn Image credit: The Barn Instagram You may also like this article: My Little Canggu Restaurant List - Part 2 Full House: Live music, movie night, and more More than just a cafe, this funky space is a home for art lovers, families, and anyone looking for a place to just chill. On top of live music, they also host plenty of events like silent discos, yard sales, movie nights, garden picnics, and more. Google Map: Full House Image credit: Full House Instagram Club House Pererenan: The New Kid on the Block with Great Live Bands One of Pererenan’s newer hangouts, Club House is quickly becoming a go-to for relaxed evenings. Live bands play every Friday and Sunday, bringing a mix of Triple J Top 100 tracks and familiar favourites you can easily sing along to. With trivia nights and live sports on rotation, it’s a laid-back spot made for easy nights with friends. Ps. They also serve steak and other things on the menu, so it’s not just a spot for drinks - you can easily make a whole evening out of it. Google Map: Club House Pererenan Image credit: Club House Pererenan Instagram Deus Ex Machina: Still One of Canggu’s Most Iconic Spots Deus Ex Machina has long been one of the places that defines Canggu’s creative scene. It's that iconic spot you really have to visit at least once when you’re here. Part cafe, part workshop, part event space, and part live music venue - it’s always had that easy mix of everything that just works. I personally have so many good memories here from my younger years watching The Hydrant play - the kind of nights that just stick with you. It’s not just a venue, it’s a Canggu classic. Google Map: Deus Ex Machina Canggu Image credit: Deus Cafe Instagram You may also like this article: Things to Do in Canggu - Where Every Plan Turns Into Three More Gimme Shelter: For Rock, Punk, and Alternative Music Fans Not every live music venue in Bali revolves around acoustic covers and beach club playlists. Gimme Shelter has built a reputation as one of Bali’s most respected venues for rock, punk, hardcore, and alternative live music. The venue regularly hosts local bands and touring acts, attracting music lovers looking for something heavier and more authentic. Google Map: Gimme Shelter Bali Image credit: Gimme Shelter Instagram Maybe I’m officially at the age where a good night out means a comfortable chair, good music, and being home before midnight (okay, maybe not always). But I love that there are now more options to go out without sacrificing tomorrow’s plans. So grab your friends, find a spot you like, and enjoy Canggu one song and one drink at a time. This list will keep growing as my friends and I discover more interesting live music spots - so consider this a work in progress

30 Jul 2026 by Bella in Lifestyle

Get Crafty: 8 Creative Classes and Workshops in Bali

8 Creative Classes and Workshops in Bali People come to Bali for so many different reasons - some for the beautiful nature, some for the beach clubs and nightlife, some for the incredible food scene, and many simply to slow down and enjoy the island lifestyle. But these days, there’s another experience that has been gaining popularity: creative workshops. Whether you’re visiting Bali or have been living on the island for years, joining a workshop can be a fun way to spend your weekend, learn something new, and create something with your own hands. From baking and cake decorating to flower arranging, perfume making, painting, and more, there are plenty of creative experiences to explore. We’ve put together a little collection of recommendations from friends who have tried and loved them. Hope you enjoy this list, and if you know any other creative workshops in Bali that we should check out and feature here, let us know! You may also like this article: Fun Communities in Bali for Every Kind of Lifestyle Volen Art Space They have a bunch of creative workshops happening every month, from painting and canvas embroidery to perfume making, batik painting, and scented candle making, and a lot more- all held in different locations around town. They also offer private workshops for special events and gatherings, perfect for birthdays, team activities, or just a creative get-together. Follow their Instagram page or visit their website for their latest workshop schedule and booking details. Image credit: Volen Art Space Instagram Kala Luang True to its name, Kala Luang (Indonesian for "when you have free time") creates fun and creative experiences to enjoy during your downtime. Their workshops range from craft activities like flower bouquet arrangement and perfume making to dessert-making sessions like mochi, cheesecake, and cookie making. With affordable prices and limited spots available for each session, make sure to book in advance. Follow their Instagram for their upcoming workshop schedule and details. Image credit: Kala Luang Instagram You may also like this article: Canggu Travel Guide - Surviving Bali's Busiest Neighbourhood Rumah Rabbit Rumah Rabbit is a house of art in Munggu offering a variety of art classes for adults, kids, and toddlers in small-group settings. From sketching and painting to hands-on creative sessions, every class is guided by experienced art teachers in a relaxed and welcoming environment. They also regularly host special workshops like rug tufting with guest tutors, and can organise artsy private events for birthdays, team gatherings, or other celebrations. Follow their Instagram to learn more. Image credit: Rumah Rabbit Instagram Mud House From the name, you can probably guess what Mud House is all about. It’s a pottery studio where you can get your hands dirty and explore the art of ceramics. Whether you're interested in hand-building, trying the pottery wheel, or painting your finished pieces, there's a class for every skill level. The workshops are available for both adults and kids, making it a fun activity for families, friends, or anyone looking to try something creative during their Bali holiday. Follow their Instagram to learn more. Image credit: Mud House Instagram Kultara If you're looking for a more authentic cultural experience in Bali, Kultara is well worth checking out. Every month, they host a line-up of art and cultural workshops that celebrate both traditional and contemporary creativity. You can join unique sessions like upcycled plastic jewellery making, linocut printing, pottery, and rattan weaving, or dive into Balinese traditions through nyurat lontar (palm leaf manuscript writing), Balinese dance, and gamelan classes. Follow their Instagram for full activity schedule and more information. Image credit: Kultara Instagram Rumah Tumbuh Translates to "House of Growth", Rumah Tumbuh it is a space created for women to learn, grow, and get creative together. Their workshops are all about trying something new in a relaxed and welcoming environment, with activities ranging from coaster decoupage and slow journaling to crochet and watercolour painting. Whether you're already a crafty person or picking up a paintbrush for the first time, it's a lovely way to discover a new hobby and make new friends along the way. Follow their Instagram for their upcoming workshop schedule and details. Image credit: Rumah Tumbuh Instagram You may also like this article: Creative Connections - 5 Bali-based Illustrators and Designers Cake Empire If you love baking and cake decorating, you’re going to love Cake Empire in Seminyak. Known for their beautiful custom cakes, they also run a range of creative workshops that are perfect to enjoy with friends and family. Learn how to create everything from Korean-style ribbon and bow cakes and elegant floral cakes to adorable 3D teddy sculpted cakes. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced cake enthusiast, there’s a class for every skill level, with plenty of designs and techniques to explore. Follow their Instagram page to discover their upcoming workshops, schedules, and detailed information. Image credit: Cake Empire Google page Bunga Seni If you're staying around Seseh, Munggu, or Nyanyi, Bunga Seni is worth checking out for a creative day out. Their flower workshops invite you to create your own bouquet while learning floral styling techniques in a relaxed and welcoming setting. It's the perfect excuse to slow down, get creative, and spend an evening surrounded by beautiful blooms and good company. Follow their Instagram page for workshop schedule and booking details. Image credit: Bunga Seni Instagram Hope you like this list, and hope it inspires you to start your own arts, crafts, or baking journey. Have another recommendation we should know about? Share it with us - your favourite creative spots could be featured next!