You Are Here – Venezia

Starbucks You Are Here Venezia is a mug for a well-known city in northeastern Italy that emerged from a unique historical melting pot. Founded in the 5th century by mainland residents fleeing barbarian invasions, Venice began as a series of lagoon settlements that gradually developed into a powerful maritime republic. By the Middle Ages, the city had transformed into a dominant naval and commercial power, controlling extensive trade routes between Europe and the Byzantine Empire. The Venetian Republic, which lasted for over a thousand years until 1797, was renowned for its sophisticated political system, intricate diplomatic networks, and extraordinary wealth generated through maritime commerce.… Read more

Been There – Yokohama

Starbucks Been There Yokohama mug features the symbols and landmarks of a Japanese city that transformed from a modest fishing village into the country’s premier international port after Commodore Matthew Perry forced its opening in 1859. The city rapidly became a gateway for foreign trade and cultural exchange during the Meiji period, introducing Japan to Western influences that would help shape its modernization. Despite suffering massive destruction during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and World War II bombing raids, Yokohama rebuilt itself each time, emerging as Japan’s second-largest city and a major commercial hub.… Read more

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

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

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

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

Discovery Series Ornament – Boston

Discovery Series Ornament – Boston is making a comeback as there was no mini mug for this city in the previous collection. There was one for YAH though.

Boston, founded in 1630, is one of America’s oldest cities and played a pivotal role in the American Revolution. Key events like the Boston Tea Party and Paul Revere’s ride occurred here. The city became a center of abolitionism in the 19th century and later developed into a hub for education and innovation, home to renowned institutions like Harvard University and MIT.… Read more

You Are Here – Katowice

Starbucks You Are Here Katowice is a brand new release for a city in southern Poland that has a rich industrial history dating back to the 19th century. Originally a small village, it rapidly grew into an important coal mining and steel production center during the Industrial Revolution. The city gained municipal rights in 1865 and became part of Poland after World War I. During the interwar period and under communist rule, Katowice continued to be a major industrial hub. Since the fall of communism in 1989, the city has undergone significant economic restructuring, transitioning from heavy industry towards a more diverse economy focused on services, technology, and culture.… Read more

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