In the midst of the long stretch of guesthouses, cafes and wat lining Ratchapakinai Road, lies a coffee shop like no other. Harmonious tones fill the air as customers drum their fingers across the café’s gleaming piano, while owner Yupalapat Supalertpurint bustles around chatting, constructing elaborate coffee concoctions, and, of course, keeping an eye on whatever delightful treats are baking in the oven. An assistant professor in clinical pathology at Chiang Mai University, Yupalapat’s love for people, art and food pushed her to open Vigie Sist Café, which after only one year has already climbed to the top of TripAdvisor. Travellers from across the globe and a slew of loyal expats regularly come to admire wall art depicting ancient northern Thai culture and traditions, sip on delightfully fresh Doi Chang coffee, and have long, leisurely chats with Yupalapat. The amiable and multi-talented lady welcomes any and all to try out her mouth-watering baked items – you can’t go wrong with blueberry cheesecake, toffee cake and brownies – and if you’re musically inclined, to sit down and take a stab at the piano.