Been There Ornament – Phnom Penh

Been There Ornament Phnom Penh comes in a custom box, together with the Cambodia ornament (see the photo below).

Phnom Penh was founded in the 15th century when King Ponhea Yat made it the capital of Cambodia. Resting at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, the city has always thrived on trade and culture. It later became a key center during the French colonial era, which left a lasting mark on its architecture. The city went through dark years in the 1970s but has since risen with remarkable strength.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Luang Prabang

I would like to share with you the pictures of the Been There Ornament Luang Prabang, which I received from a friend.

Luang Prabang sits where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet, a city known for its timeless calm and golden light. Once the royal capital of Laos, it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves a rare mix of Buddhist temples and French colonial charm. Mornings begin with the quiet rhythm of monks collecting alms, and evenings glow with lanterns by the river.… Read more

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

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