Been There Collection

Been There – Bangkok

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Been There Bangkok is a mug for a city where ancient temples, bustling waterways, vibrant street life, and modern energy come together at the heart of Thailand. You might also like this article about the Bangkok ornament.

Bangkok has grown from a riverside trading settlement into Thailand’s capital over more than two centuries. Founded as the capital in 1782 under King Rama I, the city became the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country. Its history is closely tied to the Chao Phraya River, which supported commerce, royal ceremonies, and daily life, shaping the city’s layout and identity, which continues today.… Read more

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Been There – Pune

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A blog reader shared pictures of yet another release from India. Been There Pune has a minimalistic design and, as usual, features the symbols and landmarks of the city.

Pune’s history dates back over a millennium, although it gained prominence in the 17th century when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established it as a key Maratha stronghold. The city became the seat of the Peshwa rulers in 1714, transforming into the de facto capital of the Maratha Empire. British colonial rule brought military cantonments and educational institutions that earned Pune the title “Oxford of the East.” The city played a significant role in India’s independence movement, producing freedom fighters and social reformers.… Read more

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Been There – Kolkata

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Been There Kolkata is a mug for a major cultural and historical city in eastern India, known for its colonial heritage, art, and literature.

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, served as the capital of British India from 1773 to 1911, growing from a small trading post into a major imperial city. The British East India Company established its presence in the late 1600s, transforming the area into a commercial hub. Kolkata became the center of the Bengal Renaissance in the 19th century, producing literary giants, reformers, and artists who shaped modern Indian culture.… Read more

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Been There – Antofagasta

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Been There Antofagasta is the latest release from Chile.

The Antofagasta Region in northern Chile takes its name from the port city of Antofagasta, with the word likely derived from indigenous languages meaning “hidden town” or referring to copper deposits. Spanish colonial presence remained limited in this harsh desert until the 19th century, when mining operations discovered vast nitrate and copper deposits. The region was originally part of Bolivia until the War of the Pacific (1879-1884) resulted in Chile annexing the territory, gaining access to valuable mineral resources.… Read more

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Been There – Coquimbo

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Been There Coquimbo is mug for a vibrant Chilean port city known for its colorful hills, rich maritime heritage, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. I would like to thank the follower of our blog for the photos of this beautiful mug.

The Coquimbo Region in north-central Chile takes its name from the Coquimbo Bay and the city of Coquimbo, with “Coquimbo” likely derived from indigenous Diaguita words meaning “place of calm waters.” Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 1540s, establishing La Serena in 1544 as Chile’s second-oldest city and a strategic point along the route to Peru.… Read more

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Been There – Songkhla

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Been There Songkhla is a mug for a city in Thailand.

Songkhla province emerged as a crucial maritime trading center centuries ago, with Songkhla city functioning as a key port linking the Malay Peninsula to Siam during the Ayutthaya era. King Chulalongkorn’s administrative reforms in 1901 established the province in its current configuration. Natural gas discoveries in the Gulf during the 1970s sparked economic growth, while Hat Yai developed into a major commercial hub, establishing Songkhla as one of southern Thailand’s most economically significant provinces.… Read more

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Been There – Sarawak

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The Been There Sarawak is a mug for the largest state in Malaysia, located on the island of Borneo and known for its deep rainforests, rich indigenous heritage, and dramatic natural landscapes. Historically ruled by the Brooke dynasty, the so-called White Rajahs, Sarawak developed a unique cultural identity shaped by trade, migration, and strong indigenous traditions. The mug design reflects this heritage by blending iconic landmarks, traditional arts, wildlife, and local cuisine into a single visual story.

– The Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building stands out as one of the state’s most recognizable landmarks.… Read more

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Been There – Penang

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The design of the Been There Penang mug celebrates the broader history and identity of the state of Penang, long known as one of Malaysia’s most important trading hubs and cultural crossroads. Established in the late 18th century, Penang played a key role in regional commerce, migration, and cultural exchange between East and West. The design thoughtfully incorporates a depiction of Penang Island, anchoring the artwork in the place where much of the state’s historic and modern life has flourished.… Read more

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Been There – Phuket

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Been There Phuket is a mug for Thailand’s largest island, famous for its tropical beaches, clear waters, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Phuket’s story unfolds over centuries, from its strategic position on ancient maritime trade routes connecting India and China to its prosperity through tin mining beginning in the 16th century. Chinese, Malay, and European traders left lasting influences on the island’s diverse culture, while the legendary defense against Burmese invaders in 1785 by heroines Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon remains a source of pride commemorated by a prominent monument.… Read more

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Been There – Pattaya

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Been There Pattaya is a mug for a famous beach resort.

Pattaya’s history begins as a small fishing village that transformed dramatically during the Vietnam War when American servicemen discovered its beaches as an R&R destination in the 1960s. After the war, Pattaya evolved into Thailand’s premier beach resort, attracting package tourists, expatriates, and weekend visitors from Bangkok, just 100 miles away. From sleepy coastal village to bustling resort city, Pattaya has become synonymous with nightlife, water sports, and beach holidays, while continuing to develop upscale resorts, golf courses, and family attractions alongside its more notorious entertainment districts.… Read more

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