Been There – Kunming

Been There – Kunming is a mug for the capital of Yunnan Province in China, which has long been a vital hub for cultural exchange and trade. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its mild climate, it played a key role in the ancient Southern Silk Road, connecting China to Southeast Asia and beyond. The city’s architectural heritage, from traditional pagodas to historic temples, reflects the diverse influences that have shaped its development over time.

From the design of the mug:

Stone Forest (Shilin National Park) is renowned for its towering limestone formations that resemble a vast, petrified forest.… Read more

Been There – Gifu

Been There – Gifu is a mug for a city located in central Japan. It boasts a rich history that dates back over 1,000 years. Known as a strategic hub during the Sengoku period, Gifu was famously ruled by the powerful warlord Oda Nobunaga, who renamed the city from Inokuchi to Gifu, symbolizing his ambition to unify Japan. The city flourished as a center of politics and commerce, with Gifu Castle serving as a key stronghold. Additionally, Gifu is renowned for its traditional cormorant fishing on the Nagara River, a practice that has been preserved for over 1,300 years, reflecting the city’s deep cultural heritage.… Read more

Been There – Norwegian Pearl

Been There – Norwegian Pearl is a mug for a Jewel-class cruise ship operated by Norwegian Cruise Line. Launched in 2006 and known for its vibrant, colorful hull artwork and lively atmosphere, the ship offers a unique cruising experience with a wide range of dining options, entertainment venues, and luxurious accommodations. With a capacity of over 2,300 passengers, the Norwegian Pearl boasts features like the world-renowned Bliss Ultra Lounge and a bowling alley at sea. Having sailed to destinations from the Caribbean to Alaska, the ship has gained a reputation for delivering unforgettable adventures and top-notch service.… Read more

Been There – Tianjin

Been There – Tianjin is a mug for a city filled to the brim with history, trade, and resilience. Once a crucial port along the Grand Canal, it became a gateway for foreign powers in the 19th century, shaping its blend of Eastern and Western architecture. From the Opium Wars to the Boxer Rebellion, Tianjin has witnessed the turbulence of modern Chinese history, yet it endures as a vibrant metropolis, where colonial-era concessions stand beside soaring skyscrapers, whispering stories of a past that refuses to be forgotten.… Read more

Been There – Harmony of the Seas

Been There – Harmony of the Seas is a mug for one of the largest cruise ships ever built. This massive vessel, part of the Oasis-class, stretches 1,188 feet (362 meters) in length and boasts a gross tonnage of approximately 226,963 GT. Launched in 2016, it can accommodate over 6,600 passengers across 16 passenger decks. The ship is a marvel of modern technology, featuring advanced stabilizers, energy-efficient engines, and a state-of-the-art water treatment system.

Things to do on the ship:

The Ultimate Abyss is the tallest slide at sea, plunging thrill-seekers down 10 decks from the Sports Zone to the Boardwalk at lightning speed.… Read more

Been There – Nara

Been There – Nara is a mug for a city located in the Kansai region of Japan. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance as the first permanent capital of Japan. The city is home to iconic landmarks like Todai-ji Temple, housing a giant Buddha statue, and Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely. With its blend of ancient temples, shrines, and natural beauty, Nara offers a serene glimpse into Japan’s past.

Here are some landmarks of Nara:

Nara Park is one of the most famous attractions in the city, known for its free-roaming, friendly deer.… Read more

Been There – Norwegian Epic

Been There – Norwegian Epic is a mug for one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s most ambitious ships. Built at the STX Europe shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, Norwegian Epic was originally envisioned as the first of a new F3-class, but cost overruns and design changes led to it being the only one of its kind. Launched in 2010, this massive vessel boasts a gross tonnage of approximately 155,873 GT and a length of 1,081 feet, making it one of the largest ships in NCL’s fleet.… Read more

Been There – Hefei

Been There – Hefei is the mug for the capital of Anhui Province, which has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It was a strategic military and administrative center during the Three Kingdoms period, notably linked to the famous general Zhang Liao’s victory at the Battle of Hefei. Over the centuries, the city evolved under various dynasties, serving as a hub of commerce and culture. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Hefei became known for its scholars and officials, contributing to China’s intellectual and political landscape.… Read more

Been There – Norwegian Viva

Been There – Norwegian Viva is a mug for the second ship in Norwegian Cruise Line’s groundbreaking Prima Class, which made its debut in 2023 as a luxurious and innovative addition to the fleet. Measuring approximately 965 feet in length and weighing an impressive 142,500 gross tons, Viva can accommodate up to 3,100 guests at double occupancy. With a sleek, modern design and a focus on wide-open spaces, the Norwegian Viva has been crafted to provide a more intimate and upscale cruising experience compared to traditional mega-ships.… Read more

Been There – Qingdao

Been There – Qingdao is a mug for a city with a history of international influences and cultural transformations. Originally a small fishing village, the city was dramatically changed in 1897 when German colonial forces seized the territory, establishing a concession and significantly developing the area’s infrastructure. The Germans built many distinctive buildings and introduced modern urban planning, including the famous brewery that would become Tsingtao Beer. In 1914, Japan took control of the city during World War I, further altering its landscape and governance.… Read more

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