Been There – Tochigi

Been There Tochigi is a mug for a city located in Tochigi Prefecture, that evolved from a prosperous riverport town during the Edo period (1603-1867). The city flourished as a key trading point along the Uzuma River, where merchants transported goods between Edo (modern-day Tokyo) and the northern regions. The historic Kuranomachi district preserves many traditional storehouses (kura) built by wealthy merchants, featuring distinctive black-and-white striped walls that showcase the city’s architectural heritage. During the Meiji period (1868-1912), Tochigi adapted to modernization while maintaining its cultural significance, though its role as a trading hub diminished with the advent of railways.… Read more

Starbucks Wicked-inspired collection is set to be a hit

Starbucks is bringing the magic of Oz to coffee lovers everywhere with an exclusive collection of merchandise inspired by Universal Pictures’ highly anticipated musical event, “Wicked.” Starting November 7, participating stores in the U.S., Canada, and select international markets will offer an assortment of cold cups, tumblers, keychains, and of course Discovery Series mugs and ornaments. According to Starbucks, this enchanting collection won’t last forever – it will only be available while supplies last. That said, if you want these in your collection, don’t wait too long!… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Massachusetts

Here is the brand new release for the Bay State. Starbucks Discovery Series Ornament Massachusetts boasts a blue color on the inside and a yellow color title on the front of the mug.

Massachusetts holds a pivotal place in American history as the landing site of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock in 1620. The colony they established helped lay the foundation for early American democracy through the Mayflower Compact. The state later became a hotbed of revolutionary activity, with events like the Boston Tea Party and Paul Revere’s Ride igniting the American Revolution.… Read more

Been There – Shenyang

Starbucks Been There Shenyang is a mug for a city in Liaoning Province. Historically known as Mukden, it is one of China’s most significant industrial cities, with a rich history spanning over 2,300 years. The city served as the capital of the Later Jin and Qing dynasties before they conquered China proper, making it a crucial center of Manchu culture and power. During the early 20th century, Shenyang became a focal point of Russian and Japanese imperial ambitions, with Japan’s occupation of the city in 1931 serving as a prelude to their invasion of China.… Read more

Been There – Norwegian Gem

Starbucks Been There Norwegian Gem is a mug for one of Norwegian Cruise Line’s most successful Jewel-class vessels. Built by Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, at a cost of approximately $700 million and launched in 2007, she was the last ship of her class to be constructed. During her construction, an innovative hull design was implemented that improved fuel efficiency by 5% compared to her sister ships. An interesting fact about her construction is that she was too large to pass through the River Ems normally, so the ship had to be conveyed backward over a distance of about 20 miles to reach the North Sea.… Read more

You Are Here – Bydgoszcz

This fresh release from Starbucks is not the last Poland city mug that we know of. Stay tuned for more updates!

You Are Here Bydgoszcz is a mug for a city located in the northern part of the country. Bydgoszcz is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Founded in the 10th century, the city has been an important center of trade and commerce throughout its history. During the Middle Ages, Bydgoszcz was part of the Polish Kingdom and later came under Prussian and German rule.… Read more

Discovery Series – Orlando

Starbucks Discovery Series Orlando mug showcases the following symbols and landmarks of the city (I will skip those found on the ornament):

Golf in Orlando stands as a testament to the city’s year-round outdoor lifestyle, with over 150 courses gracing the landscape. The pristine fairways and challenging layouts have attracted both professional tournaments and casual players from around the world. The combination of warm weather and meticulously maintained courses, designed by legends like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, has earned Orlando its reputation as one of America’s premier golfing destinations.… Read more

Discovery Series – Boston

I’ve reviewed the Boston Ornament earlier, and it’s time for the full-sized Discovery Series Boston mug now. These are landmarks and symbols of the city that were added to the design of the mug:

– Located in the heart of Boston, Quincy Market stands as a historic marketplace that has been serving locals and tourists since 1826. This Greek Revival-style building houses dozens of food vendors, offering everything from local specialties to international cuisine. The market’s central colonnade is often filled with street performers and musicians, creating a lively atmosphere that perfectly captures Boston’s vibrant spirit.… Read more

Been There – Japan Autumn

Starbucks Been There Japan Autumn follows three other country mugs for Nippon, namely: regular, Spring, and Summer editions.

The design of the mug showcases fall colors in all their beauty. Interestingly enough, the Japanese have a special word for the tradition of autumn leaf viewing. Momiji-gari is the centuries-old practice of traveling to scenic areas to view the changing autumn leaves, particularly those of maple trees. The term literally translates to “maple hunting” or “maple viewing,” though it encompasses the appreciation of all autumn foliage.… Read more

Discovery – Niagara-on-the-Lake

Starbucks Discovery Niagara-on-the-Lake is a bigger version of the ornament that we saw earlier. On top of the symbols and landmarks from the mini mug, we have the following points of interest incorporated in the design:

Fort George stands as a remarkable testament to Canada’s military heritage, having played a crucial role in defending Upper Canada during the War of 1812. The fort’s well-preserved wooden buildings and earthen ramparts offer visitors an authentic glimpse into early 19th-century military life, complete with soldiers in period uniforms demonstrating musket firing and military drills.… Read more

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