Chiang Mai Cafes: 6 Cute Places with Great Coffee and Bites

Chiang Mai has become one of my favourite cities for coffee – I don’t think I’ve had a bad cup here so far. They’re all good for my taste, my stomach, and my wallet. I find coffee prices here really fair, and even the fancy ones with cream, oat milk, and all that stuff are still reasonable (compared to Bali at least).

I haven’t tried many coffee shops in Chiang Mai yet, so this list will keep growing as I discover more cute spots. But for now, here are some of my favourites – places that are not only cute but also serve great coffee, pastries, and sweets.

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Monday Attack

I like to imagine that the people behind this café simply weren’t built for office life, probably hated Mondays, and decided to start this coffee shop instead hehehe. Monday Attack has a cozy retro interior that looks cool from every corner, complete with a photobooth and nice cold air con (essential – if you need a little escape from the heat outside).

I first came here after exploring Waroros Market nearby, and their iced latte topped with soft serve instantly won my heart. Turns out Mondays aren’t so bad when they involve good coffee and chilling.

Forest Bake

This is where you go when you want to enjoy a slow day in the garden with tea or coffee and an artisanal cake. Their pastries are made in small batches every day, so it’s best to come in the morning when everything is fresh, also because they tend to sell out quickly.

The main bakery sits inside a cute little cabin that looks like it belongs in a European storybook. Outside, there’s a garden with a woodland aesthetic where you can truly take your time. I especially like their tarts; the blueberry and lemon ones are my favourites.

Image credit: Forest Bake Instagram

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Groon

I have so many good things to say about Groon. Not only is the coffee good, but they also make great scones, honey shokupan, and sometimes I even come here for lunch because I love their chicken quesadillas and creamy truffle pasta.

This café sits between two other dessert spots; one frozen yoghurt place (which I also like) and a bingsoo shop. My guess is that they share the same owner because everything is connected, and you can order from whichever one you feel like.

Pastry image credit: Groon Instagram

London Bakery

Spoiler alert: they don’t sell any London or British pastries here. Quite the opposite, they serve Asian-inspired items like matcha flan, ube soft bread, and salt bread, alongside classics such as blueberry cheesecake, croissants, and pretzels.

The interior looks very 90s in a charming way, featuring a candy-coloured gate (to the toilets, lol) and a giant statue of their mascot that makes you feel like you’ve stepped straight into the world of Hansel and Gretel. And yes, of course, the coffee is good. But I usually come here for the munch, accompanied by coffee – not the other way around, hehe.

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Mars

Literally just a few steps away from London Bakery (I counted), you’ll find Mars café. The name already tells you what to expect the moment you walk in. Considering how Instagram-worthy this place is, it’s surprisingly not packed with people just taking photos. They actually come for the coffee too, which is nice.

By the way, this café shares its entrance with a hotel upstairs, which makes for some very funny moments; you’ll see confused guests walking in expecting a normal hotel lobby, only to find themselves on what looks like a Star Trek film set.

Matchi Matchi

I came here just for a coffee, but ended up ordering their soft serve too – because it’s their specialty, and because I have free will, heheh. Aaanddd… I think I’ve found a new favourite dessert! Their black sesame soft serve was whoahhh-so-good!

The place itself is also very cute – is it a coincidence that I keep ending up in cute places? 😉 I also tried their matcha choux, which was good and much bigger than I expected. Overall, a very happy experience. Would definitely go back fo’ sho!

I really like Chiang Mai and it’s coffee scene – every corner seems to hide another charming spot waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re here for serious coffee, sweet treats, or just a cozy place to slow down for a while, there’s always somewhere nice to try. And knowing me, this list definitely won’t stay at six for long. BRB checking out more cafes in town! ☕️

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09 Mar 2025 by Bella in Europe

A Playful Stay in Copenhagen: My 25hours Hotel Experience

Those who know me know I’m not the luxury type - whether it’s what I wear, where I go, or how I travel. I always choose charming boutique hotels with characters over lavish ones (nothing against them, they’re just not me).Last year, I was lucky enough to be able to travel to Europe, with Copenhagen as one of my destinations. While scrolling through all the beautifully designed, Scandi-chic hotels, one instantly caught my eye: 25hours Hotel Indre By, Copenhagen.“It’s very electic!” - that’s probably the first thought that comes to mind when you see the bold, colourful, and unconventional design. As soon as you step through the front door, you’re greeted by a pastel-coloured bar right in the middle, leading the way to the lobby. Past the bar, there’s a music room on the right and a lounge on the left. I did spend some time in the music room - not to listen to music though, just to chill - and it was nice. The interesting design of the lobby, and the lounge The lobby itself is full of character, with a striking display of stacked books in the centre and a cosy corner with typewriters for guests to write poems. There’s also a little shop that I only glanced at quickly, but it seemed to have all sorts of quirky, novelty items (I would expect nothing less!). The staff were friendly, check-in was smooth, and then came the most exciting part… the room! My husband and I booked the Superior King Room because we wanted extra space for our big suitcases and coats. The interior was, again, bold and colourful - like stepping into a Wes Anderson film. There was a vintage phone that actually worked (this millennial had to figure out how to use it, haha!), and the bathroom had underfloor heating, which was a dream. Everything about the room made me want to scream, Aaaaaa! I love, love, love this hotel! If I had to be really picky, I wasn’t sure about the pillow selection, it was a little too soft to my liking - but honestly, that was such a minor thing compared to the overall experience! Oh, and as you head to the rooms, the corridor has this fun wallpaper that gives off Toy Story vibes. Spacious room, and unique design of the public toilet But that’s not the only thing I loved about this place. The breakfast was great - they had all the usual Western favourites, plus plenty of bread and cereal. But since I was in Denmark, I made it my mission to eat as much fresh salmon as possible, and eating it with rye bread was the highlight of my mornings! They also have a gym. It’s not huge, but it does the job. There’s a sauna as well, though if I’m not mistaken, it only operates at certain times. Overall, I had such a fun stay in 25hours Hotel Copenhagen. Not only did they wow me with their playful design and cool features, but the location was also super convenient - within walking distance of shops and restaurants. In fact, we averaged 20,000 steps a day just exploring the city! If you love contemporary, quirky hotels with personality, I highly recommend this one for your stay in Copenhagen.

09 Jun 2026 by Teman Bella in Asia

Japan for First-Timers: How I Accidentally Fell in Love (and Went Back Twice...and Then Again)

JAPAN FOR FIRST-TIMERS - an article by Yohanes Hutauruk It was in 2018 when I visited Japan for the very first time - and not just that, it was also my first ever solo holiday. I had always imagined my first solo trip would be somewhere closer to home in Southeast Asia. Something easy. Something familiar. But somehow, I ended up in Japan - the Land of the Rising Sun, a country so advanced it sometimes feels like it’s already living in 2050. Fast forward to today, I’ve visited Japan three times. People say “third time’s the charm”, but for me, three is just the beginning. This is clearly a relationship that is going to continue. The funny thing is, the trip itself started as a very impulsive decision at a travel fair. I remember standing in line at the counter, not even knowing where I wanted to go and then suddenly...Japan just popped into my head. Cue mild panic. As a first-time solo traveller, I went straight into research mode: where to go, what to eat, how to survive. So if you’re reading this as a first-timer (or a slightly anxious one), consider this your friendly guide from someone who has been exactly where you are. Welcome to Japan. Or as I like to call it: your next obsession. Things You Need Before Entering JapanPlanning Your Trip (a.k.a. Where to Even Start)Getting Around (Without Losing Your Mind)Where to Go in Japan (and Yes, Start with the Mainstream)Slurp Your Way into JapanShibuya: Where Your Wallet Gets TestedThe Famous Shibuya Crossing (Yes, It’s Worth It)Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea (Choose Wisely… or Don’t)Disneyland vs DisneySea: The Ultimate First-Timer DilemmaTop rides to prioritise:HighlightsWhat to Eat (Because You Will Get Hungry… A Lot)What to Buy (You Don’t Need It… But You Do)Strategy Tip (So You Don’t Spend Your Day in Line)For the Wizards and Witches (YES, YOU!)Konbini - My Three-Times-a-Day (or More) HabitAnd So Much More to Discover You may also like this article: 48 Hours in Amsterdam - A Quick Trip, Big Memories Things You Need Before Entering Japan If you’re an Indonesian passport holder, here’s the good news (and a little bit of admin, but don’t worry - it’s painless). Japan used to require a visa for Indonesians, and while that’s still true for regular passports, things have become much easier for e-passport holders. You can now apply for a visa waiver online, and the process is surprisingly quick - just a few days. If you’re using a regular passport, you’ll still need to apply for a visa, which usually takes around one to two weeks. My advice? Apply at least one to two months before your trip, just to be safe and stress-free. Once your visa (or waiver) is sorted, the next step is completing your customs declaration online. The process is simple, user-friendly, and only takes a few minutes. At the end, you’ll receive a QR code - this will be scanned when you arrive at the airport in Japan. And just like that, you’re already halfway there. I kept going back to Japan to see "family" Planning Your Trip (a.k.a. Where to Even Start) For first-timers, the classic trio is: Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Each city has its own personality: Tokyo is fast-paced, crowded and feels like the future. Kyoto is calm, traditional and beautifully refined. Osaka is lively, friendly and basically heaven for food lovers. Before you arrive, make sure you’ve sorted your transportation from the airport to your hotel. You have two choices: Option one: comfort Book a private airport transfer and glide straight to your hotel door like a well-prepared traveller. Option two: adventure Take public transport like a local. It’s efficient, reliable… and occasionally involves carrying your suitcase up what feels like a never-ending staircase. Not all stations have elevators - consider this your first workout in Japan. Now, let’s talk about hotels. If you’re staying in a budget hotel in Japan, manage your expectations (and maybe your luggage size). Rooms are compact. Very compact. You might not be able to fully open a large suitcase, and closet space is...optimistic at best. But here’s the upside: they are clean, efficient, and almost always come with a bathtub. Yes, a bathtub. Hotels like APA Hotels and Hotel Mystays are great options with multiple locations and reasonable prices - especially if you book early. Just don’t expect a full-sized soaking tub. Most are more like “sit-and-contemplate-your-life” tubs rather than “stretch-and-relax” ones. The good news? Amenities in Japan are excellent. Toiletries are provided and surprisingly high quality. You can skip packing shampoo, soap, and even toothpaste. Japan has you covered - unless you’re very particular about your products. And honestly, if you’re out exploring all day, the room is more than enough. Getting Around (Without Losing Your Mind) If you plan to explore a lot (which you should), I highly recommend getting a Tokyo Metro Pass. It comes in 24, 48, and 72-hour options and covers most metro lines in Tokyo. It’s simple, convenient, and saves you from constantly topping up a card like Suica. Personally, I prefer the pass - unlimited rides, no thinking required. You can buy it online and collect it easily at ticket machines. The process is straightforward and very tourist-friendly. Similar transport systems are available in Kyoto and Osaka, making it easy to get around without blowing your budget. And yes, taxis exist...but unless you’re feeling generous with your wallet, maybe save those for emergencies (like food and more food :)) You may also like this article: Where to Eat in Sydney - 5 Spots I’ll Always Go Back to Where to Go in Japan (and Yes, Start with the Mainstream) For first-timers, here’s my rule: do the touristy things. Seriously. You can be cool and “off the beaten path” on your second, third, or tenth trip. For now, just enjoy the classics - they’re famous for a reason. Slurp Your Way into Japan Start with something simple but essential: ramen. And not just any ramen - go to Ichiran Ramen. This place is perfect for solo travellers. Actually, it was made for us. You sit in your own little booth, fill out your ramen preferences (yes, you can customise everything), and order from a vending machine. Extra egg? Add it. More pork? Of course. Seaweed? Why not. The best part? You don’t even have to talk to anyone. Your bowl magically appears through a small curtain like a ramen surprise. Minimal interaction, maximum satisfaction. Perfect for introverts. Or for people who just don’t want to socialise before coffee. Ichiran Ramen, the perfect stop for solo travellers Shibuya: Where Your Wallet Gets Tested Next stop: Shibuya - also known as your new shopping problem. Here’s one important tip from someone who learned the hard way: don’t overpack. Just buy your clothes in Japan. Head straight to Uniqlo or GU (yes, it’s pronounced G-U). They literally have everything: undies, basics, jackets, shoes, accessories, even winter wear - all at dangerously affordable prices. And I mean dangerously. Because what starts as “I’ll just get one jacket” quickly turns into “how did I spend half my budget on Day 2?” Be strong. Or don’t. Your choice. And for sneaker lovers - you are in serious trouble (in a good way). You’ll find plenty of ABC-Mart stores around Shibuya. Think of it as sneaker heaven: rows and rows of Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and more - often at very reasonable prices compared to back home. So yes...maybe leave some extra space in your luggage. You’ve been warned. The good news? These stores are everywhere across Japan, so you’ll never run out of options - or excuses. ABC Mart, one of the many "dangerous" places The Famous Shibuya Crossing (Yes, It’s Worth It) Right in the middle of Shibuya is the iconic Shibuya Crossing - one of the busiest crossings in the world. You have two ways to enjoy it: Option 1 Be part of the chaos. Cross with everyone, take your content, feel the energy. Just… don’t stop in the middle like a confused tourist. Keep walking. Option 2 Watch from above like a calm, evolved traveller. Here are some of the best viewpoints: Mag’s Park (Magnet by Shibuya 109 rooftop): great direct top-down view. Entry is around ¥1,500 including a drink. Shibuya Sky: for a higher, panoramic view (and amazing photos), this is the one. Shibuya Hikarie (11th floor sky lobby): free and less crowded - a hidden gem. Shibuya Mark City windows: another easy, free option. Best time to visit? sunset into evening - when the lights turn on and everything feels a bit more cinematic. Crowd tip: Mag’s Park gets busy. Hikarie is usually calmer if you prefer a quieter experience. Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea (Choose Wisely… or Don’t) If you’re in Tokyo, this is a must. Whether you’re a “yeah...since I’m already here” traveller or a full-on Disney fanatic, Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea are easily two of the happiest (and most dangerously addictive) places on earth. Disneyland vs DisneySea: The Ultimate First-Timer Dilemma If you only have one day, choosing between the two can feel like emotional damage. But here’s my honest advice: go to DisneySea first. Why? Because DisneySea is unique to Japan - you literally cannot find it anywhere else in the world. Why DisneySea is so special? DisneySea is less “cartoon” and more cinematic. Think: stunning themed ports inspired by places like Italy, New York, and the Middle East or a massive volcano (yes, an actual volcano) at the centre of the park - details so beautiful you’ll forget you’re in a theme park. It feels more grown-up, more immersive, and honestly - more aesthetic for photos. We're never too old for Tokyo DisneySea Top rides to prioritise: Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey - a beautiful boat ride through the story of Frozen, with next-level animatronics and a few surprises along the way Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure - a 3D immersive experience where you join the Lost Kids (yes, you’re part of the story) Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival - calm, romantic, and easily one of the prettiest rides, especially if you’re a fan of that iconic lantern scene Journey to the Center of the Earth - fast, thrilling, and visually insane Tower of Terror - same name, completely different storyline from other Disney parks And Then…Disneyland! If you have more time, go to Disneyland the next day. Because let’s be honest - there is no such thing as “I’ve had enough Disney.” Disneyland is more classic, more nostalgic, and exactly what you imagine Disney to be. And yes - this is where you get that iconic castle moment. Highlights Beauty and the Beast - easily one of the best Disney rides in the world (worth the queue, trust me) Pooh’s Hunny Hunt - surprisingly fun, even for adults Monsters, Inc. Ride & Go Seek! - interactive and chaotic in the best way, you’ll be shooting flashlights and laughing like a kid The Happy Ride with Baymax - pure joy. It spins, it dances, and somehow you’ll leave smiling for no reason And of course...the fireworks. Disneyland wins here - the show with the castle backdrop is magical, dramatic, and absolutely worth staying until the end. DisneySea...let’s just say the fireworks are not the main character there. What to Eat (Because You Will Get Hungry… A Lot) Let’s talk about the real priority: food. Alien Mochi - cute, chewy, and almost too adorable to eat Turkey Leg - dramatic, oversized, and surprisingly addictive Churros - not your average churros, they come in different flavours and shapes You will snack all day. No regrets. What to Buy (You Don’t Need It… But You Do) If there’s one thing you should bring home: the collectible popcorn bucket. They come in different characters and designs, and somehow… everyone ends up carrying one. You’ll tell yourself, “I don’t need this.” And then 10 minutes later, you’re in line buying it. Strategy Tip (So You Don’t Spend Your Day in Line) These rides are popular. Like…very popular. If you don’t plan a little, you might spend more time queueing than actually enjoying the park - not ideal. Here’s what you should do: Get Premier Access for the big rides (paid, but worth it if you value your time and sanity) Download the official Tokyo Disney Resort App to check waiting times in real time Go early. Like, really early. Think of it as strategy, not stress. Because the goal is simple: more rides, less waiting, maximum happiness. For the Wizards and Witches (YES, YOU!) If you’re a Harry Potter fan, Tokyo has a few magical spots worth adding to your list. Start with Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter, where you can explore iconic sets like the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, and of course try butterbeer (with a souvenir mug included, which somehow becomes very precious). Then head to Harry Potter Mahou Dokoro Harajuku in Harajuku for all the merch your inner wizard insists you need - yes, butterbeer is here too, but no mug this time. And finally, swing by Akasaka Station, where you’ll find Harry Potter-themed decorations perfect for a quick photo (and a moment to pretend you’re on your way to Hogwarts). Three spots, three different vibes - and a high chance you’ll leave with a wand you didn’t plan to buy. Muggle-friendly Harry Potter Store in Harajuku You may also like this article: A Magical Day at Harry Potter Studio Tour London Konbini - My Three-Times-a-Day (or More) Habit People always ask why I keep going back to Japan, and honestly...the answer is simple: I have family there. Lots of family. Specifically, FamilyMart. And it doesn’t stop there - 7-Eleven Japan and Lawson are equally dangerous (in the best way). These “konbini” are on another level - we’re talking everything from onigiri and bento to pastries, snacks, and honestly...unbelievable desserts. It’s the kind of place where you go in for water and walk out with a full meal (and zero regrets). And here’s a fun tip: don’t sleep on their socks. Each konbini has its own signature designs, and somehow they make the perfect, lightweight souvenir. Cute, practical, and very easy to justify buying five pairs. And So Much More to Discover Of course, there are so many more places to eat and explore in Japan. Think Tsukiji Outer Market, where you can enjoy incredibly fresh sushi and sashimi straight from the source, or Harajuku, the heart of Japan’s bold and creative street fashion. You can also wander through Asakusa for a more traditional vibe, or explore Shinjuku, where the city truly never sleeps. But honestly, one of the best things about Japan is the unexpected. Even when you’re just roaming around, you’ll stumble upon surprises - a tiny ramen shop tucked in a quiet corner, a hidden café, or a meal that ends up being your favourite of the entire trip. Because in Japan, ramen rarely disappoints. So don’t overplan everything. Leave a little space for curiosity. You might just find your own hidden gem on a random street with no name - and somehow, that becomes the highlight of your journey. I’ll leave that part for you to discover.

15 Jan 2025 by Bella in Europe

48 Hours in Amsterdam: A Quick Trip, Big Memories

As part of our wedding trip, my husband and I spent two nights in Amsterdam. Why? Well, because my Schengen visa entry is through Holland, and I had never been before - so why not. Flying directly in from Scotland, the temperature felt a lot warmer. It was cool enough to keep us comfortable while walking around, but not cold enough to need a thick jacket (it was the end of October by the way). It was my first time in Amsterdam, yet it already felt like home. For those who don’t know, Indonesia was colonised by the Dutch for a long time - long enough for their influence to shape our culture and daily life, from language to food and so much more. So many things I came across like home decorations, familiar snacks, chocolate sprinkles for breakfast brought back memories of my childhood at grandpa and grandma's house. Anyway, during the 48 hours I spent there, of course I did all the tourist things - and here they are. RijksmuseumMoco Museum Food HallenAmsterdam CanalsVolendam You may also like this article: A Playful Stay in Copenhagen - My 25hours Hotel Experience Rijksmuseum It’s one of the most iconic museums in Amsterdam, home to a collection of Dutch art by renowned artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. When I was there, they were running a collaboration with Disney, exploring the intersection of Disney’s iconic Donald Duck and the traditional art world. There were workshops and activities, like this one I did, sketching King William I from the 1800s... as Donald Duck. Quack! Left - Donald Duck drawing activity at Rijksmuseum. Middle and right - Moco Museum. Moco Museum Why not Van Gogh? Well, I didn’t have time for both, and I was drawn in by the artists they featured on the poster, like Banksy and Andy Warhol. They didn’t have an extensive collection though, but it was nice to feel like an art student again, when I used to visit galleries all the time. Left - Canal walk near the hotel. Middle and right - Bitterballen and Sate Ayam from the food hallen. Food Hallen We love food, but we’re not exactly the Michelin-starred-restaurant type of couple. Plus, I can only manage itty bitty portions, but I still want to try a little bit of everything. So, what’s a better spot than a food court? I sampled all sorts of snacks, but two highlights stood out: the Bitterballens and Sate Ayam. Now, you might be wondering, why would I eat Indonesian satay in the Netherlands? Well, I was curious - and I was pleasantly surprised that it was so delicious! Not very authentic, but it was pretty good. You may also like this article: A Magical Day at Harry Potter Studio Tour London Amsterdam Canals I am now officially one of those people who take photos in front of a canal, and I have absolutely no shame about being a typical tourist, haha! There’s something undeniably charming about the Amsterdam canals. I loved watching boats drift by, listening to the soft ripple of the water, and doing nothing. Day trip to Volendam - first time seeing a windmill! Volendam On our last day, my aunt, who lives there, took me to this charming fishing village, Volendam. It reminded me of Fife in Scotland - so nice. The highlight was a visit to a cheese and wooden clog studio, Henri Willig. I still don’t know how cheese and clogs are connected - and why I didn’t ask, lol. P.S. It was dangerous that they had cheese samples because, whoahh they were so good! I ended up going home with three different cheeses. Amsterdam left me with such a warm and fuzzy feeling - I’d happily return to again and again. In just 48 hours, I got a little taste of everything; the history, the art, the food, and all the charm. Two days wasn’t nearly enough, but it definitely left me wanting more. Until next time, Amsterdam!