The Cutest Cafe in Bangkok, Thailand: Decho Cafe; (Chong Nonsi)

I was about a week into my stay at a hostel in Bangkok, Thailand, when I happened upon the most darling cafe I'd ever laid eyes on. It was a Sunday and, consequently, the cafe was not open. I cupped my fingers around my eyes and pressed gently against the glass window to get a closer look. My eyes spanned the cozy room from one end of the cafe to the other, absorbing all the decadent and perfectly placed decor that filled the space.

Despite it being dim, I noticed beautifully detailed chandeliers dripping from the ceiling. Eager to see it all, my eyes quickly moved to the vibrant orange and deep, royal-purple fabrics that cascaded from the ceiling lit up as if the were interrupting spotlights. Their golden tassels hung loosely, remaining steady with nobody inside to bother them. Each square table was covered in a wide pink gingham and vases redder than snow white's pouty lips perched upon the soft fabric. Each provided a home for a bounty of dried, lilac-hued flowers, whose delicate buds spilled upward into the quiet air. Perched along side each tiny table were two sleek bone-white, armless chairs that complemented the entire space.

I promptly made a mental jot to visit the place and order an icey beverage.

Several days later I skipped right back to Decho Cafe's pretty stained glass door. Toes first, I stepped in and let the ambience engulf me. The quarters were quiet, but I didn't mind a bit. In fact, I think it made for a better sensory experience. Mental state in prime position, I surveyed the place once more, this time from the inside, running my fingers along the shimmery, golden rococo-inspired wallpaper while enjoying the light coffee aroma that filled my nostrils.

I made slow strides toward the register, a young Thai woman worked away. I felt tiny, like a miniature Alice who just tasted an "eat me" cookie, as I surveyed the large menu displayed above me. I opted for my tried and true iced mocha, with whip. The 65 baht was a little more expensive than street coffee, but $2 for a gourmet cup of joe really can't be disputed.

I was elated. A piece of cafe heaven and a much needed resting place from the bustling Bangkok city. It just goes to show that planning ahead is not always the best way to enjoy your time in a foreign place. Decho Cafe was not on my list of things to do or see, nor was it on anyone else's list, I suspect, but it quickly became a daily habit for me to stop by. That, darling, is better than any tour you can book (no matter how good a price you find)!

Location: BTS stop Chong Nonsi. 4 Decho Road, next to Lub D. Hostel.

Hours: Monday - Friday 8am-8pm