Tag: Been There

Been There Ornament – Songkhla

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Been There Ornament Songkhla is getting me one step closer to completing my mini mug collection from Thailand.

Songkhla province’s history as a vital trading port dates back centuries, with the city of Songkhla serving as a major entrepôt connecting the Malay Peninsula to Siam since the Ayutthaya period. The province was officially established in its modern form in 1901 during King Chulalongkorn’s administrative reforms. Strategic location along the Gulf of Thailand made Songkhla a melting pot of Thai, Chinese, and Malay cultures, with influences visible in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Pattaya

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Been There Ornament Pattaya showcases the landmarks of a city that emerged from humble beginnings as a small fishing village. It later transformed dramatically during the mid-20th century, particularly in the 1960s when visiting servicemen stationed in Thailand began frequenting its coast. This early tourism wave sparked rapid development, gradually turning Pattaya into one of Thailand’s most internationally recognized beach destinations. Today, the city blends local traditions, seaside culture, global visitors, and a constant rhythm of entertainment, forming a coastal hub that has grown far beyond its origins while still retaining elements of its maritime heritage.… Read more

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Been There – San Miguel

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Been There – San Miguel is a mug for one of El Salvador’s oldest and most influential cities, founded in 1530 during the early Spanish colonial period. Over the centuries, it grew into a commercial and cultural center of the eastern region, shaped by its fertile lands, volcanic surroundings and strong agricultural traditions. San Miguel later became known for its economic activity, festivals and its role in connecting eastern El Salvador with the rest of the country.

– One of the most recognizable natural features illustrated on the mug is the Chaparrastique Volcano, rising just southwest of San Miguel.… Read more

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Been There – Johor

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It seems that the design of the Been There Johor mug is almost identical to the ornament that I reviewed earlier. Most of the symbols and landmarks can be seen in both designs, but they are arranged in a slightly different way.

Johor state’s history stretches back to the powerful Johor Sultanate, founded in 1528 following Malacca’s collapse. Under Sultan Abu Bakar’s visionary leadership in the late 1800s, the state modernized its government and infrastructure while preserving royal authority. Positioned strategically along vital shipping lanes and adjacent to Singapore, Johor has become Malaysia’s manufacturing giant and farming center without abandoning its royal traditions and multicultural identity.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Phuket

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Been There Ornament Phuket is the first mini mug from Thailand in this series that I am adding to my collection. Interestingly enough, there doesn’t seem to be a country ornament yet.

Phuket has grown from a historic trading port into one of southern Thailand’s most culturally vibrant urban centers. Its history reflects centuries of exchange along busy maritime routes that brought Chinese, Malay, Indian, and European merchants seeking tin, spices, and safe anchorage. These influences blended with local Thai traditions and helped shape the character of Phuket’s old streets, its multicultural food, and its diverse communities.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Malaysia

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Strangely enough, Been There Ornament Malaysia was released later than ornaments for some of its cities.

Malaysia’s history is shaped by ancient Malay kingdoms, centuries of maritime trade, and waves of cultural influence from China, India, the Middle East, and Europe. Over time, these interactions formed a vibrant nation where diverse traditions coexist naturally. From the early sultanates to British rule and finally independence in 1957, Malaysia has grown into a country celebrated for harmony, cultural pride, and rapid modern development.… Read more

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Been There – Curitiba

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Been There – Curitiba is a mug for the capital of Paraná state in southern Brazil. It was founded in 1693, though it truly flourished in the 19th century with European immigration, particularly from Poland, Germany, Italy, and Ukraine. The city transformed dramatically under Mayor Jaime Lerner in the 1970s, who pioneered innovative urban planning solutions that made Curitiba internationally renowned as a model of sustainable development. From its pedestrianized downtown and pioneering Bus Rapid Transit system to its extensive green spaces and cultural programs, Curitiba represents Brazilian urbanism at its most creative and livable.… Read more

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Been There Ornament – Johor

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Another package from Malaysia arrived! Inside, there is a brand new Been There Ornament Johor.

Johor state’s history as the southernmost state of Peninsular Malaysia dates back centuries to the Johor Sultanate, established in 1528 after the fall of Malacca. The modern state took shape under Sultan Abu Bakar in the late 19th century, who modernized administration and infrastructure while maintaining the sultanate’s sovereignty. Strategically positioned at the crossroads of major shipping routes and sharing a border with Singapore, Johor has evolved into Malaysia’s industrial powerhouse and agricultural heartland while preserving its rich royal heritage and cultural traditions.… Read more

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Been There – Gramado

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Let’s review another mug from Brazil, this time it’s Been There Gramado. There are two more in the queue, stay tuned!

Gramado’s history begins in the mid-19th century when European immigrants, primarily from Germany and Italy, settled in the mountainous Serra Gaúcha region of Rio Grande do Sul. The city was officially founded in 1913, though its development accelerated in the 1940s when improved roads connected it to larger urban centers. What started as a small agricultural community transformed into one of Brazil’s most beloved tourist destinations, as visitors discovered its cool climate, stunning landscapes, and distinctive European-influenced architecture.… Read more

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Been There – Salvador

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Been There Salvador is a mug for the capital of the state of Bahia in northeastern Brazil. It is one of the oldest cities in the Americas and the birthplace of Afro-Brazilian culture. Founded in 1549 as the first capital of colonial Brazil, it became a major port in the Atlantic world. Its historic center, Pelourinho, is known for colourful buildings, lively squares, and deep cultural traditions shaped by African, Indigenous, and Portuguese influences that continue to define Salvador today.

– One of the figures on the mug represents a traditional drummer, highlighting Salvador’s strong musical heritage.… Read more

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