Been There – Chengdu

Been There – Chengdu is the mug for the capital of Sichuan Province in southwestern China, boasts a rich historical legacy dating back over 4,000 years. As one of the cradles of Chinese civilization, it was a significant cultural and political center during the ancient Shu Kingdom, long before the Qin dynasty unified China. Archaeological discoveries, such as the Jinsha Site, have unearthed artifacts that testify to Chengdu’s ancient prosperity and cultural richness. During the Han dynasty, Chengdu was known as a major hub of commerce and industry, particularly noted for its production of brocade, which earned it the nickname “Brocade City.” Throughout the Tang and Song dynasties, Chengdu continued to flourish as a cultural and literary center, contributing significantly to Chinese poetry and art.… Read more

Discovery Series – Ohio

The Buckeye State gets Discovery Series – Ohio mug, featuring a design filled with landmarks and symbols. Here are some of them:

– The Red Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) was adopted as Ohio’s state flower in 1904 to honor President William McKinley, an Ohioan who often wore a scarlet carnation on his lapel. The flower symbolizes love, admiration, and affection, fitting for a state known for its hospitality. Carnations are also popular in gardens and floral arrangements due to their vibrant color and pleasant fragrance.… Read more

Been There – Xiamen

Starbucks Been There – Xiamen is a mug for a coastal city in southeastern China. Historically known as Amoy, it emerged as a vital port during the Song Dynasty, flourishing through maritime trade. The city played a significant role during the Ming Dynasty as a defense base against pirates and later as a key site during the First Opium War. Its colonial legacy is evident in the Gulangyu Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, reflecting a blend of Western and Eastern architectural styles.… Read more

Discovery Series – Austin

Starbucks Discovery Series – Austin is the latest addition from Texas, which was expected, since all the collections from the past had it.

Austin stands as the proud capital of Texas, embodying the spirit of the Lone Star State. Founded in 1839, the city was named after Stephen F. Austin, the “Father of Texas.” Its origins trace back to the Republic of Texas era, when it served as the capital of the fledgling nation. Over the years, Austin evolved from a humble frontier settlement into a bustling hub of commerce, education, and government.… Read more

You Are Here – Lillehammer

This news and photos just came in from our blog reader: Starbucks has released the You Are Here – Lillehammer mug, making it the fifth city in Norway to have its own mug from this series. You can see them all here.

Lillehammer is a picturesque town located in the southern part of the country, known for its scenic beauty. Nestled along the northern shore of Lake Mjøsa, it gained international fame for hosting the 1994 Winter Olympics. The town is also renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century wooden houses, lively cultural scene, and outdoor recreational activities, making it a popular destination for both tourists and winter sports enthusiasts.… Read more

You Are Here – Albi

Starbucks You Are Here – Albi is a mug for a city located in the Occitanie region of southern France. Dating back to the Roman times, Albi has witnessed the rise and fall of several civilizations, leaving behind a rich tapestry of history. However, it was during the Middle Ages that Albi truly flourished. In the 13th century, the city became a major center of the Cathar movement, a religious sect that challenged the authority of the Catholic Church. This led to the Albigensian Crusade, a brutal conflict that ravaged the region.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Hawaii

Discovery Series Ornament – Hawaii follows the release of the bigger mug. I encourage you to read the full review here.

As for the ornament, similar to other mini mugs from the Discovery series, the design has very few elements. We can see the rainbow, the whale, and a tiny island with palms and waves.

Unlike the bigger mug, the diver is on the back of the ornament and holds the coconut with the straw, instead of Hawaiian Shave Ice. … Read more

Been There – Shenzhen

Starbucks Been There – Shenzhen is a mug for a city, located in southern China, that has transformed itself from a small fishing village into a global technological hub. Known as the “Silicon Valley of China,” Shenzhen is home to numerous tech giants and startups, attracting innovators and entrepreneurs from around the world. With its stunning skyline, modern architecture, and bustling streets, the city offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Shenzhen is also renowned for its shopping destinations, cultural attractions, and diverse culinary scene.… Read more

Discovery Series – Alaska

Discovery Series – Alaska is a fresh release from the Last Frontier State. Alaska, the largest state in the United States, has a rich history. The land has been home to indigenous peoples for millennia, with vibrant cultures and diverse tribes such as the Aleut, Inupiat, Yup’ik, and Tlingit. In the 18th century, Russian explorers established settlements, paving the way for Russian colonization and the lucrative fur trade. However, in 1867, Alaska was purchased by the United States from Russia, marking a significant turning point in its history.… Read more

Been There – Kobe

Starbucks Been There – Kobe is a mug for a prominent port city located on Osaka Bay in Japan, that has a rich history dating back to its establishment in the Nara period (710-794). During the 12th century, Kobe became a significant center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location. It was officially founded in 1868, the same year Japan opened its ports to foreign trade, marking the beginning of the Meiji era. Kobe’s port rapidly grew into one of Japan’s most important, facilitating international trade and cultural exchange.… Read more

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