Discovery Series – Idaho

I am still waiting to get my Gem State ornament, but for now, let’s review the design of the Discovery Series Idaho mug.

Idaho is a state defined by rugged landscapes, winding rivers, and a strong sense of outdoor independence. Admitted to the Union in 1890, it has long balanced agriculture, mining, and recreation across its mountains and high desert terrain. From dramatic waterfalls to fertile farmland, Idaho offers more variety than many expect. The mug design brings these natural and cultural elements together in one cohesive scene.… Read more

Been There – Temuco

Due to its scarcity, it was not easy to obtain photos of the recently released Been There Temuco mug. Many thanks to a friend of this blog for kindly providing them.

Temuco is a city in southern Chile known as a gateway to the Araucania region, an area rich in Mapuche heritage and dramatic natural landscapes. Founded in 1881 during the expansion of the Chilean frontier, the city developed as a commercial and cultural center surrounded by forests, rivers, and volcanoes.… Read more

Discovery Series – Oahu

While in Waikiki, let’s review the design of the Discovery Series Oahu mug as well.

Oahu is often called the heart of Hawaii, blending historic sites, vibrant cities, and some of the island’s most diverse landscapes. From lush mountains to world-famous shorelines, the island plays a central role in Hawaiian history and modern culture. It is where everyday local life and visitor experiences naturally overlap. The mug design brings together these defining elements into a single island portrait.

Here are some of the symbols and landmarks of Oahu as seen in the design of the mug, capturing the island’s scenery, flavours, and outdoor lifestyle.… Read more

Discovery Series – Waikiki

Discovery Series Waikiki is a mug for one of Hawaii’s most iconic coastal neighbourhoods, known for its transformation from wetlands into a world-famous resort destination in the early 20th century. Located on the south shore of Oahu, it blends natural beauty, Native Hawaiian traditions, and modern leisure culture. With beaches framed by volcanic landmarks and ocean activities woven into daily life, Waikiki has become a global symbol of island living. The mug design brings these elements together in a bright, relaxed snapshot of the area.… Read more

Discovery Series – Antigua Guatemala

Big thanks to a blog reader for providing these exclusive pictures of the brand-new Discovery Series Antigua Guatemala mug. This release introduces the new collection to this Central American country, and I’m confident it’s just a matter of time before a country mug follows.

Antigua Guatemala is a historic city nestled in the central highlands of Guatemala, once serving as the capital of the Spanish colonial kingdom in Central America. Founded in the 16th century, the city is known for its preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and dramatic volcanic surroundings.… Read more

Discovery Series – Albuquerque

This city in New Mexico has never received a Starbucks mug before. To add more to that, the Discovery Series Albuquerque is the first city mug from this state.

Albuquerque was founded in 1706 as a Spanish colonial outpost along the Rio Grande. The railroad’s arrival in 1880 transformed it into a regional hub, while World War II brought Sandia National Laboratories and Kirtland Air Force Base. Today, Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city, balancing Spanish colonial heritage, Native American influences, and modern growth as a center for technology and tourism.… Read more

Discovery Series – Winnipeg

This is the second-to-last Canadian province mug released to date; there is only one left to add to the collection! Discovery Series Winnipeg has a unique colour scheme, and I don’t recall seeing anything similar in previous releases.

Winnipeg is the capital of Manitoba and a city shaped by rivers, railways, and prairie traditions. Sitting at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, it has long been a hub for trade, culture, and community life. The city balances historic institutions with modern landmarks, all while embracing its famously cold winters.… Read more

Been There – Phnom Penh

It was not particularly easy to find pictures of the Been There Phnom Penh mug, likely due to its scarcity. I am lucky to have the ornament in my collection, which I reviewed here.

Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s capital city and cultural heart, with a history shaped by royal heritage, river trade, and resilience through centuries of change. Located at the meeting point of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, the city has long been a center of political power and daily life.… Read more

Discovery Series – Phoenix

Discovery Series Phoenix is a mug for a city that rose from the heart of the Sonoran Desert, built atop ancient Hohokam canal systems that once carried water through the valley. The modern city took its name from the mythical phoenix, symbolizing rebirth and renewal after centuries of abandonment. Rapid growth in the 20th century transformed Phoenix into one of the largest cities in the American Southwest. Today, it blends deep desert history with sprawling urban energy and outdoor adventure.

Here are some of the symbols and landmarks of Phoenix as seen in the design of the mug, each representing a unique part of the city’s culture, environment, and identity.… Read more

Discovery Series – Sacramento

Discovery Series Sacramento is a release for California’s capital city, with a history rooted in the Gold Rush and the early development of the American West. Founded in the mid-19th century along the Sacramento River, it quickly became a center for trade, government, and transportation. The city grew at the crossroads of river routes and rail lines, shaping its long-standing importance in the state. Today, Sacramento blends historic landmarks with a modern urban landscape and abundant green space.

Some of the symbols and landmarks from the design of the mug

The California grizzly bear is a powerful historical symbol closely associated with California.… Read more

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