Been There Ornaments Collection

Been There Ornament – Sarawak

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The Been There Ornament Sarawak is the last known Malaysian mini mug from this collection. I am lucky I was able to collect them all thanks to my friend!

The design of the Been There Ornament Sarawak reflects the rich cultural history and natural heritage of Malaysia’s largest state, shaped by centuries of indigenous traditions, trade along river routes, and colonial influence. Sarawak’s past is closely tied to the Brooke era, when it was ruled by the White Rajahs in the 19th century, leaving behind distinctive architecture and institutions that still define the region today.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Bangkok

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Another gift from a friend has joined my collection. The Been There Ornament Bangkok comes in a separate box, which seems to be in line with other releases from Thailand.

Bangkok’s story begins in the late 18th century, when King Rama I established it as the capital of Siam in 1782 after the fall of Ayutthaya. What started as a riverside settlement along the Chao Phraya River quickly grew into the political, cultural, and spiritual heart of the country. Over time, canals, royal compounds, and temples shaped the city’s layout, earning Bangkok a reputation as a place where tradition and daily life are deeply intertwined.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Perth

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Been There Ornament Perth is the last confirmed ornament from Australia for now. I’m keeping an eye out for another one, but until I get photos, I won’t be able to post it here.

Perth’s history as the capital of Western Australia begins with its founding in 1829 as the Swan River Colony, making it one of the most isolated cities established by the British Empire. Unlike Australia’s eastern colonies, Perth began as a free settlement rather than a penal colony, though convict labour was later imported in the 1850s to address labour shortages.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Brisbane

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The Been There Ornament Brisbane is almost a complete copy of the mug I added recently.

Brisbane’s history as Queensland’s capital dates back to its founding in 1825 as a penal colony for repeat offenders from Sydney, making it one of Australia’s harshest convict settlements. The settlement opened to free settlers in 1842 and was named after Sir Thomas Brisbane, the governor of New South Wales. Brisbane became the capital when Queensland separated from New South Wales in 1859, evolving from a colonial outpost into a thriving river city.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Songkhla

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Been There Ornament Songkhla is getting me one step closer to completing my mini mug collection from Thailand.

Songkhla province’s history as a vital trading port dates back centuries, with the city of Songkhla serving as a major entrepôt connecting the Malay Peninsula to Siam since the Ayutthaya period. The province was officially established in its modern form in 1901 during King Chulalongkorn’s administrative reforms. Strategic location along the Gulf of Thailand made Songkhla a melting pot of Thai, Chinese, and Malay cultures, with influences visible in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Pattaya

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Been There Ornament Pattaya showcases the landmarks of a city that emerged from humble beginnings as a small fishing village. It later transformed dramatically during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s when visiting servicemen stationed in Thailand began frequenting its coast. This early tourism wave sparked rapid development, gradually turning Pattaya into one of Thailand’s most internationally recognized beach destinations. Today, the city blends local traditions, seaside culture, global visitors, and a constant rhythm of entertainment, forming a coastal hub that has grown far beyond its origins while still retaining elements of its maritime heritage.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Phuket

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Been There Ornament Phuket is the first mini mug from Thailand in this series that I am adding to my collection. Interestingly enough, there doesn’t seem to be a country ornament yet.

Phuket has grown from a historic trading port into one of southern Thailand’s most culturally vibrant urban centers. Its history reflects centuries of exchange along busy maritime routes that brought Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European merchants seeking tin, spices, and safe anchorage. These influences blended with local Thai traditions and helped shape the character of Phuket’s old streets, its multicultural food, and its diverse communities.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Malaysia

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Strangely enough, Been There Ornament Malaysia was released later than ornaments for some of its cities.

Malaysia’s history is shaped by ancient Malay kingdoms, centuries of maritime trade, and waves of cultural influence from China, India, the Middle East, and Europe. Over time, these interactions formed a vibrant nation where diverse traditions coexist naturally. From the early sultanates to British rule and finally independence in 1957, Malaysia has grown into a country celebrated for harmony, cultural pride, and rapid modern development.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Johor

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Another package from Malaysia arrived! Inside, there is a brand new Been There Ornament Johor.

Johor state’s history as the southernmost state of Peninsular Malaysia dates back centuries to the Johor Sultanate, established in 1528 after the fall of Malacca. The modern state took shape under Sultan Abu Bakar in the late 19th century, who modernized administration and infrastructure while maintaining the sultanate’s sovereignty. Strategically positioned at the crossroads of major shipping routes and sharing a border with Singapore, Johor has evolved into Malaysia’s industrial powerhouse and agricultural heartland while preserving its rich royal heritage and cultural traditions.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Hong Kong

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Been There Ornament Hong Kong joins other mini mugs in my collection.

Hong Kong began as a small fishing and farming community before becoming a British colony in 1842 after the First Opium War. Over the next century, it transformed into a major trading port and one of the most important gateways between East and West. In 1997 sovereignty returned to China under the “one country, two systems” framework, which allowed Hong Kong to keep its own legal and economic structures.… Read more

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