Been There – Punta Del Este

Been There – Punta Del Este is a mug for a city located on Uruguay’s southeastern coast. It is one of South America’s most glamorous seaside destinations. Once a quiet fishing village, it began to gain fame in the mid-20th century as wealthy travelers from Argentina and beyond discovered its golden beaches and relaxed charm. The city grew into a luxurious resort town known for its stunning ocean views, modern skyline, and lively nightlife. Today, Punta del Este blends natural beauty with sophistication, attracting visitors year-round to enjoy its beaches, marinas, and cultural landmarks.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Brunei

I was lucky to receive the Been There Ornament – Brunei recently. It resembles the design of the full-size mug that we’ve reviewed recently.

Brunei, officially known as the Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace, has a history deeply rooted in Malay culture and Islamic traditions. The earliest records of Brunei date back to the 7th century, when it was part of the Srivijaya Empire and later came under the influence of the Majapahit Empire. By the 15th century, Brunei had become a powerful Islamic sultanate under Sultan Bolkiah, extending its influence over much of Borneo and the southern Philippines.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Cambodia

Let’s continue our journey through Southeast Asia by reviewing this beautiful Been There Ornament Cambodia. Similar to some other ornaments from this region, it comes in a set with another city mini mug. You can see the photo of the box below.

Here are a few of the symbols I spotted in the design of the ornament:

Angkor Wat stands as Cambodia’s greatest symbol and the world’s largest religious monument, representing the height of Khmer architectural mastery. Built in the early 12th century under King Suryavarman II, it was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu before becoming a revered Buddhist temple.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Laos

Been There Ornament – Laos is the release for the landlocked nation in Southeast Asia with a history that weaves together ancient kingdoms, colonial influences, and modern resilience. Once known as the Kingdom of Lan Xang, or the “Land of a Million Elephants,” Laos was founded in the 14th century and flourished as a center of trade and Buddhism. It later fell under French colonial rule in the late 19th century before gaining full independence in 1953. Today, Laos continues to embrace its cultural traditions while steadily growing as a peaceful and welcoming destination.… Read more

Been There – Perlis

Been There – Perlis is a mug for a city rich in history and cultural charm, located in the northernmost part of Malaysia. Once part of the ancient Kedah Kingdom, Perlis gained its own identity in the early 19th century when it became an independent state under Siamese rule. Later, it came under British protection through the 1909 Anglo-Siamese Treaty, shaping much of its modern administrative and architectural heritage. The state’s capital, Kangar, developed as a trading and agricultural center, known especially for rice cultivation.… Read more

Been There – Dunedin

It seems that Been There – Dunedin will be the last mug from this collection coming from New Zealand. I have to admit, it was hard to find good pictures of the mug. It seems to be quite rare, or maybe it just isn’t sold in stores anymore. Please note that it was released two years ago.

Dunedin, one of New Zealand’s most historically rich cities, was founded in 1848 by Scottish settlers under the auspices of the Free Church of Scotland.… Read more

Been There – Brisbane

Starbucks Been There Brisbane is a mug for the capital of Queensland, which traces its history back to its origins as a penal settlement in the early 19th century. Named after Sir Thomas Brisbane, the Governor of New South Wales, the city grew from a remote outpost into a thriving riverfront hub. It played an important role during World War II as a base for Allied forces in the Pacific. Today, Brisbane is a modern, cosmopolitan city that blends history with a relaxed, outdoor lifestyle.… Read more

Been There – Malaysia

Starbucks Been There Malaysia is a mug for a country whose history is shaped by the meeting of diverse cultures, kingdoms, and colonial influences. From the ancient Malacca Sultanate, which was a major trading hub, to periods of Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule, the region has long been a crossroads of commerce and culture. The country gained independence in 1957, forming the Federation of Malaya, which later expanded into modern-day Malaysia in 1963. This rich history continues to influence its identity, blending tradition with progress.… Read more

Been There – Brunei

Starbucks Been There – Brunei is a mug for a small yet wealthy nation on the island of Borneo, which has a history deeply tied to its monarchy and Islamic heritage. Known officially as the Nation of Brunei, the Abode of Peace, it has long been a hub for trade and Islamic culture in Southeast Asia. Today, Brunei is celebrated not only for its oil wealth but also for its cultural traditions, natural wonders, and grand architecture that highlight its unique identity.… Read more

Been There – Ecuador

Been There Ecuador is a mug released for the opening of the first Starbucks store in Ecuador, which opened at Scala Mall in Quito in August 2024. The historic launch marked Starbucks’ 1,700th store in Latin America and the Caribbean and represented the coffee giant’s entry into its 25th market in the region. The company partnered with Delonorte S.A. for the opening, with plans for four more stores across Ecuador’s capital city by the end of 2025.

Ecuador’s history spans from ancient indigenous civilizations to modern independence, with the Inca Empire expanding into the region before Spanish colonization began in 1534.… Read more

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