Tag: Been There

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 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 – 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 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 – 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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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 – Sabah

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Been There Sabah is a mug for the Malaysian state located in northern Borneo.

Sabah’s history as Malaysia’s easternmost state begins with the establishment of the British North Borneo Company in 1881, which administered the territory until World War II. The state endured Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945, which devastated much of its infrastructure and population. Sabah gained independence and joined the Federation of Malaysia on September 16, 1963, a date now celebrated as Malaysia Day. Known as “Land Below the Wind” for its position south of the typhoon belt, Sabah has evolved from a resource extraction economy into a biodiversity hotspot and adventure tourism destination while maintaining its rich indigenous cultures and natural heritage.… Read more

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