Asia

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

09 Jun 2026 by Teman Bella

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.

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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 :))

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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

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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.

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22 Jun 2026 by Bella in Asia

7 Days in Chiang Mai: Interesting Things to Do, See, and Eat

7 Days in Chiang Mai I can't believe I've been staying in Chiang Mai for six months by the time I’m writing this - time flies. This beautiful city in Northern Thailand has grown on me in the best way. Every time I post about the cafes I visit, the places I explore, or the delicious food I discover on Instagram, my DMs are filled with friends asking for Chiang Mai recommendations. A few have even come to visit me here - including my parents, and a few are coming in the next month. So, since I already have this website, I thought I might as well put everything together in one place for anyone planning a trip here. If you’ve been to Bangkok and are wondering how different Chiang Mai is, it feels like a different side of Thailand. It’s quieter, slower-paced, and much more affordable I'd say, with plenty of amazing food, cute cafes, nature escapes that are very close to the city, and fun local experiences. So here’s my guide to what you can expect from a week-long holiday in Chiang Mai - though in my opinion, a week is not enough. Also, this is not a day-by-day itinerary, so you have the freedom to pick and choose what you’d like to do. You may also like this article: How to Stay in Thailand Visa-Free for 90 Days Exploring the Old City The Old City sits right within the “square” area you’ll see on the city map, making it super easy to navigate. It’s packed with restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and hotels, so there’s always something around every corner. You can even walk around the entire square and visit all four gates. I did it for fun and measured it - the full loop is about 6.7km. It’s a great way to slowly explore the city, especially on your first day, while getting a feel for Chiang Mai’s charm. Here are a few restaurants in Old City that I like: Kat's Kitchen: A popular Thai restaurant (super busy in high season) Sanjan: The only Indonesian restaurant in Chiang Mai Kai Wan: Tom Yum restaurant Kati: A western breakfast and brunch spot (super busy in high season) SP Chicken: Grilled chicken and Thai food Chang Phueak, one of the four gates in the Old City Wat Phra That Doi Suthep There are many beautiful temples here, but this Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the city's unofficial "you have been to Chiang Mai" landmark. Sitting on top of Doi Suthep mountain, this iconic temple famous for its golden pagoda, beautiful details, and incredible views overlooking the city. I have written a complete article on how to get there, including the different transport options, so check that out if you’re planning your visit. Definitely worth adding to your Chiang Mai itinerary. Read here: A Guide to Doi Suthep Temple, Chiang Mai: 4 Things to Know The beautiful Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Local Markets, obviously I mean, you can’t really go to Thailand without visiting the markets, right? There are so many different ones to explore, and they’re great places to find interesting local handmade products too. But whenever I go to a market, I’m there for the food! I’ve put together a list of markets you can visit, along with their opening days and times, so you can plan your itinerary and figure out which market to visit on which day (aren’t I nice? Hehehe). Read here: Chiang Mai Food Markets - 8 Popular Spots to Eat The relaxing ambiance at Coconut Market Cooking Class I don’t cook, and I don’t like cooking - I’m really not that person, lol. But did I enjoy making Thai curries, Pad Thai, and Tom Yum? I surprisingly did! I probably wouldn’t have joined if it wasn’t for my parents convincing me, but it turned out to be such a fun experience. You can usually find cooking school options in brochures at travel agencies, but the one we chose was called Smile Organic Farm. It was 900 baht per person for four dishes plus one curry paste that we learned how to make from scratch. They picked us up from our accommodation, took us to the farm, and prepared all the ingredients for us, so all we had to do was cook (and try not to mess it up - which I kinda did). The portions were huge for me and my parents, and we ended up with so much food that we had to take some home. Coming from someone who rarely steps into the kitchen, I can confidently recommend this experience. My parents making Phat Kaphrao in the cooking class Baan Kang Wat I really love this place! Baan Kang Wat is a charming little art village where you can browse handmade crafts and join workshops like ceramics, jewellery making, painting, and other creative activities. You can meet local artists, shop for unique art pieces, and have lunch. If you haven’t tried Northern Thailand’s signature dish, Khao Soi, there’s a popular spot here serving a really delicious bowl (although there are plenty of other restaurants and coffee shops to explore too). You can easily spend a few hours here just wandering around without a plan - eat, shop, discover little creative corners, or simply relax in the lovely garden area in the middle of the village. It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy Chiang Mai’s creative side. ⏰ Opening Hour: Tuesday - Sunday, 10am - 6pm 📍Google Map: Baan Kang Wat One of the workshops you can do at Baan Kang Wat Nature and Adventure You can easily escape to nearby hills and waterfalls like Mae Sa Waterfall or Huay Kaew Waterfall, perfect for a quick nature break without going too far. For something more scenic, drive up to Doi Inthanon National Park, the highest point in Thailand, where you can enjoy cooler weather, viewpoints, and beautiful nature walks through forests and waterfalls. If you’re staying closer to the city, the famous Monk’s Trail near Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a great little hike that takes you through the jungle up to a peaceful temple stop. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and calm, all within reach of Chiang Mai. Beautiful Maeya waterfall Massage...as many times as possible After all the sightseeing, adventures, and 10K steps a day, every single day, you definitely deserve a good Thai massage. Actually, you don’t even need to wait until the end of your trip. You can have as many as you want because they’re affordable and pretty great almost anywhere, even the random little spots. From just 350 baht an hour, you can basically be transported to heaven on earth. So make the most of your time in Chiang Mai and book that massage! Image credit: Pure Knead Massage A day trip to Chiang Rai If you have extra time on your holiday and still have the energy for a long drive, a day trip to Chiang Rai is worth considering. It’s a province in Northern Thailand, about 3 hours away from Chiang Mai, known for its beautiful temples and scenic landscapes. You can either rent a car and drive yourself, but I prefer just sitting back and letting a driver take you around - it’s way easier, especially when you just want to enjoy the views and not worry about navigation. I’ve also written a full article on the most beautiful places to see in Chiang Rai, so check that out if you’re planning your trip! Read here: A Day Trip to Chiang Rai: 5 Beautiful Destinations to See The White Temple, one of the must-sees in Chiang Rai Ok like I said, a week is not enough to explore this beautiful city. So this is just a starting point for your Chiang Mai journey. The city is best experienced at your own pace, with space to wander and discover beyond any list. However you choose to explore it, I hope Chiang Mai treats you as kindly as it has treated me. Hope you find this article useful and thank you for reading!

13 Aug 2026 by Bella in United Kingdom

12 Things to Do in the Scottish Highlands - The Kata Bella Guide

Things to Do in the Scottish Highlands I've been seeing many posts on social media lately about Edinburgh becoming one of the favourite destinations for Indonesian travellers, and it has also become a popular conversation among my circle of friends. It's easy to understand why. With its historic streets, fairy-tale castles, charming little tea rooms, stunning architecture - all wrapped in its dark and misty atmosphere -Edinburgh is a city that feels magical no matter how many times you visit. And for Potterheads, the city is filled with Harry Potter connections and spots that feel straight out of the wizarding world, from winding cobbled streets to old buildings that look like they could belong in Hogwarts. But while you're there, don't stop at the city centre. Go on a road trip and head north, where the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands are waiting to be explored. Driving in Scotland should be easy for us as they drive on the left side of the road too, so get your international driving licence ready and start planning your journey. I was lucky enough to have a local as my tour guide, who showed me some beautiful spots along the way, so I'm sharing this list with you to inspire your own Scottish Highlands adventure. Things to Do in the Scottish HighlandsLunch and snack stop at the House of BruarExplore Dunrobin CastleWalk around InvernessWhisky distillery tour at GlenmorangieShop at AntaPlay a round of golf at Royal DornochSeafood feast at La Mirage, HelmsdaleWatch the salmon leap at the Falls of ShinDrive to John O' GroatDrinks at the Crask InnA walk along Oldshoremore beachTake a scenic drive through any part of the Scottish Highlands You may also like this article: 48 Hours in Amsterdam - A Quick Trip, Big Memories Lunch and snack stop at the House of Bruar If you're driving from Edinburgh to the Highlands, the House of Bruar makes the perfect first stop. More than just a place to stretch your legs - it’s a destination in itself. Inside, you’ll find shops filled with classic British country wear, from cashmere to tweed. There are also restaurants serving comfort meals, including their must-try steak pie, along with gift shops packed with local treats like biscuits, chocolates, fudge, cheese, and wine. To top it off, there’s also deli with a tempting selection of ready made meals like Scotch eggs, as well as ham, cheese, jam, and other local produce. Explore Dunrobin Castle Looking like something straight out of a fairytale book, Dunrobin Castle was originally the home of the Earls, and later the Dukes, of Sutherland. Today, this beautiful castle is open for visitors to explore its grand interiors, perfectly manicured gardens, and views stretching out towards the North Sea. Dunrobin is considered one of Scotland’s most enchanting castles, located in Golspie, Sutherland, on the northern coast of Scotland. Walk around Inverness Known as the capital of the Highlands, this charming city is a mix of history, nature, and cosy corners. Take a stroll along the River Ness, wander through the historic streets, and go to Inverness Castle for beautiful views over the city. And don’t miss the iconic Leakey’s Bookshop - a dream for any book lover. With its train station and airport, Inverness is also a great starting point for your Highland adventures. You may also like this article: From Privet Drive to Gringotts - A Magical Day at Harry Potter Studio Tour London Whisky distillery tour at Glenmorangie Located in Tain, Scotland, Glenmorangie offers whisky tours ranging from 45 minutes to two hours, where you can see how their whisky is traditionally made and learn a bit about the distillery. You don’t need to book to visit the Visitor Centre, Shop or Tasting Bar, but you need to book ahead if you want to join a tour or tasting. Just make sure to check their website before you go, as opening hours change throughout the year and they close for around two weeks over Christmas and New Year. Shop at Anta It’s a lovely little stop for Scottish-inspired ceramics and other beautiful crafts. Founded in the Highlands, Anta creates timeless homeware, textiles, and hand-painted stoneware inspired by Scotland’s landscapes and seasons. The place itself is humble, quiet, and not too big - the kind of spot where you can take your time browsing and pick up a little piece of Scotland to bring home, whether it’s a cosy wool piece, a tartan mug, or a hand-painted thistle plate. Play a round of golf at Royal Dornoch I'm not a golfer, but even I could see why so many people make the trip to Dornoch, especially in the summer. The town is best known for its legendary golf course, but you don't need to play a round to enjoy being here. Spend some time wandering through the charming streets, take a walk along the beach, and grab a sandwich to enjoy with the sea as your backdrop. There are also some lovely places to eat, including The Castle Hotel, which has a lovely beer garden at the back. You may also like this article: A Playful Stay in Copenhagen - My 25hours Hotel Experience Seafood feast at La Mirage, Helmsdale From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by an eclectic interior filled with quirky décor, unusual lamps, and a police statue that adds to its unique charm. Known as Helmsdale's go-to seafood restaurant, it's famous for its fish and chips, but I couldn't resist ordering the scampi instead - and it didn't disappoint. The portions are incredibly generous, so don't be shy about asking for a takeaway box if you can't finish it all. After lunch, take a short walk down to the beautiful river, which is just steps away from the restaurant. Watch the salmon leap at the Falls of Shin Sometimes, happiness is as simple as sitting by the river and watching salmon launch themselves out of the rushing water. Located on the River Shin near Lairg and Bonar Bridge, it’s an easy stop on a Highlands road trip, with the falls just a one-minute walk from the main car park. There’s also a visitor centre, restaurant and walking trails, so you can grab a bite and have a little wander around while you’re there. The best time to see them is between May and September. Drive to John O' Groat It's a cute little village and one of the northernmost points of mainland Britain. It’s a popular stop if you’re driving around the northern coast of Scotland, with dramatic coastal views, and fresh sea air (by fresh, I mean...cold). It's also a fun landmark to tick off your Scotland road trip list. When I visited John O'Groat, it was in autumn, almost winter, and it was freezing and suuuper windy. So if you’re heading up this way around this time of year, bring your warmest jacket and a beanie, and maybe even a pair of gloves. Drinks at the Crask Inn It's known as the most isolated inn on the British mainland. Dating back to 1815, this little inn started out as a drovers’ inn and has been welcoming travellers for generations. Today, it’s still wonderfully old-school, with a cosy bar, hearty home-cooked food and a few rooms if you want to stay the night. There’s not much around it besides the beautiful, wild Highland landscape, which is kind of the whole point. If you’re road-tripping through the Highlands, it’s definitely worth making a stop here and soak in the peace and quiet. A walk along Oldshoremore beach It’s just one of the many beautiful beaches scattered around the Scottish Highlands, but unlike the beaches you’d find in tropical countries, the experience here is very different. Instead of warm, crystal-clear water and palm trees, you get dramatic mountain and cliff views. It feels peaceful and remote, especially when you’re there with hardly anyone else around. Take a scenic drive through any part of the Scottish Highlands You will find yourself going "whoahhhh" every five minutes. If you're lucky, you might spot cute Highland cows just chilling in a field, or stumble across a charming old castle. Stop at a random little vintage tea room, pop into a cosy pub for some classic bangers and mash, and just pull over and soak up the fresh air and incredible scenery. It’s the kind of road trip you’ll remember forever. I hope this guide inspires you to explore beyond Edinburgh city and discover more of what Scotland has to offer. From charming Highland towns and dramatic landscapes to cosy cafes, there’s so much beauty waiting to be explored. P.S. Since I frequently travel around the UK, I started Kata Bella UK Instagram page to share the places, experiences, and little discoveries I come across along the way. If you're planning your next UK adventure or simply looking for inspiration, feel free to follow along!

05 Dec 2024 by Bella in United Kingdom

From Privet Drive to Gringotts: A Magical Day at Harry Potter Studio Tour London

My journey into the Harry Potter world began 24 years ago, when my uncle gifted me the first book when I was 12. He worked in a bookstore at the time and gave me the first book – it was considered quite a luxury back then, so I was eager not to miss out. After finishing the first one, I was hooked and wanted more. But the only copies available at that time were in English - so as the books got thicker, reading in my second language became more difficult. But luckily they started turning them into films, haha! Fast forward to today, and when I finally landed in London for the first time, I convinced my husband to visit The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros studio tour. I’ll tell you what - I was one lucky Muggle! There was no way we could get tickets during the high season, but two people decided to cancel, and that’s how we got ours. The tickets are not cheap, especially when you convert them to Indonesian rupiah – it was over IDR 1 million each *crying in parseltongue*. But boy, was it worth it! It was a dream come true for me! And in this article, I'll share everything you need to know: ticket tips, costs, and why this magical London attraction is worth every Galleon. You may also like this article: 48 Hours in Amsterdam - A Quick Trip, Big Memories Unfortunately, the expense didn’t stop at the tickets. We also had to take a train out of London, which cost £20 per person. But the tickets did include a bus pick-up from the train station to the studio. On the bus, Draco Malfoy greeted us on screen, which definitely added to the excitement! (Not sure why him though, where’s Harry!). The tickets have time slots, and since we arrived early, we headed to the cafeteria for some soup served in a cauldron! We were also given a passport with interactive tasks, like collecting stamps and finding golden snitches. You can choose to use an audio guide, available in several languages - and I wonder why I didn’t ask for mine in Bahasa Indonesia, just for fun, lol. You make also like this article: A Playful Stay in Copenhagen - My 25hours Hotel Experience So, we started the studio tour in the Great Hall, and then it took us through everything you could possibly imagine from the films! From Harry’s cupboard under the stairs, to Gryffindor’s common room, Hagrid’s hut, Professor Dumbledore’s office, and even the Forbidden Forest! I got to meet Aragog and the Hippogriff (and I wasn’t surprised to see all the nerdy Potterheads bowing to it, haha). There’s also an outdoor area where you can visit Harry’s aunt and uncle’s house on Privet Drive, and the plant room where they grow Mandrakes! It was raining and cold, but that didn’t stop anyone - certainly not me, from exploring. I treated myself to some Butterbeer. You can clean the mug and take it home! Then, I continued my journey through Platform 9¾, Diagon Alley, and Gringotts. No wonder the website says it’s at least a 3-hour tour! You may also like this article: Brazil and Indonesia - Fun Finds in Similarities It was one of the best days ever! It brought back so many wonderful childhood memories. If you're ever in London and are a Harry Potter fan, I can't recommend the studio tour enough. It’s totally worth the splurge. Just be sure to book your tickets well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly! Harry Potter Studio Tour London Summary Planning Your Visit Ticket Price: More less IDR 1,000,000 each How to Save: Book 3-4 months early – slots sell fast! Getting There: Take a £20 (approx. IDR 400,000) train from London + free shuttle bus Magical Highlights The Great Hall: Walk under floating candles and house banners Privet Drive: Recreate Harry’s iconic cupboard-under-the-stairs moment Butterbeer: Sip the creamy drink and keep the souvenir mug! Diagon Alley & Gringotts: Walk through the dragon-guarded bank and Ollivanders’ wand shop. Is It Worth It? Absolutely! For Potterheads, the Harry Potter Studio Tour London is a nostalgic journey through Hogwarts, Dumbledore’s office, and the Forbidden Forest. Just budget for tickets + train fares. Bella's Tips Skip the audio guide (you will be visually pleased the whole time - and save money) Arrive early for cauldron soup at the cafeteria Wear layers in autumn/ winter – the outdoor Privet Drive area gets chilly! Click here to buy the tickets. Isabella - Hufflepuff