Discovery Series – Vancouver

Discovery Series Vancouver is a mug for a city that started as a small settlement called Granville, which then grew into one of Canada’s most vibrant cities. Its location between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains made it a key port and trading center. The city’s growth accelerated with the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway, linking it to the rest of the country. Over the years, Vancouver became known for its multicultural population, outdoor lifestyle, and environmental focus. Today, it stands as a gateway to the Pacific and one of the most livable cities in the world.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – San Diego

The design of the Discovery Series Ornament San Diego represents “America’s Finest City,” known for its sunny weather, laid-back atmosphere, and stunning coastal scenery. Founded in 1769 as the first mission and presidio in California, San Diego has grown from a small Spanish settlement into one of the most vibrant cities on the Pacific coast. With its deep historical roots and multicultural influences, the city beautifully balances heritage and modern coastal living.

– The roller skater on the ornament captures San Diego’s fun and active lifestyle.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Perlis

The Been There Ornament Perlis is a mini version of the mug we reviewed earlier. I’m lucky to have this in my collection, thanks to a friend who travels frequently across Asia.

Perlis, the smallest state in Malaysia, may be compact in size, but it is rich in history and natural beauty. Located in the far north of Peninsular Malaysia, it shares a border with Thailand and has long served as a vital trading route between the two nations. Historically known as part of the ancient Kingdom of Kedah, Perlis became a separate state in the early 19th century and developed its own distinct cultural identity.… Read more

Discovery Series – Baltimore

Discovery Series Baltimore is a mug for one of the oldest and most character-filled cities in the United States. Founded in 1729 as a port town, Baltimore grew into a major hub for shipping, trade, and industry. Its harbour played a key role during the War of 1812, inspiring Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Over time, the city became known for its working-class roots, vibrant arts scene, and resilient community spirit. Today, Baltimore blends historic grit with creative energy, proudly reflecting both its past and future on every street.… Read more

Been There – Antigua Guatemala

Been There Antigua Guatemala is the second mug from this Central American country known for its rich Mayan heritage, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant colonial cities like Antigua.

Antigua Guatemala, once the capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala, is a city filled with colonial charm and volcanic beauty. Founded in the early 16th century, it was originally named Santiago de los Caballeros and served as a major political and religious center for Spanish colonial rule. In 1773, a devastating earthquake destroyed much of the city, leading to the relocation of the capital to what is now Guatemala City.… Read more

Discovery Series – Cambridge

Here are some photos of the Discovery Series Cambridge mug that I made while visiting Boston this summer. We’ve reviewed the ornament earlier, so let’s see how the design of the larger mug differs.

Cambridge, Massachusetts, has a history deeply tied to learning and innovation. Founded in 1630 and named after the English university town, it quickly became a center of education and intellect. Home to world-renowned institutions like Harvard University and MIT, Cambridge has long stood at the crossroads of history, science, and culture.… Read more

Been There Ornament – Melbourne

Similar to other Australian ornaments, the Been There Ornament Melbourne comes in a set of two, together with the country ornament. See the photo of the box below.

Melbourne began as a small settlement on the Yarra River in 1835, built by ambitious settlers looking for opportunity. The discovery of gold in the 1850s transformed it into one of the richest cities in the world. Victorian architecture, grand boulevards, and public gardens soon gave it a European charm that still defines its streets.… Read more

Been There – Luang Prabang

Been There – Luang Prabang is a mug for a city that was once the royal capital of Laos and that remains the spiritual heart of the nation. Founded over a thousand years ago, it grew where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers meet, becoming a crossroads of trade and culture. The city’s golden temples, French colonial villas, and slow river life earned it a UNESCO World Heritage title in 1995. Every dawn, saffron-robed monks walk the streets collecting alms, a ritual that keeps ancient traditions alive.… Read more

Discovery Series – Seattle

Discovery Series – Seattle is a mug for a city that began as a logging town in the 1850s, built on the strength of its forests and its access to Puget Sound. By the late 19th century, it had grown into a shipping hub and a gateway to the Alaskan Gold Rush. The Great Fire of 1889 nearly wiped it out, but the city rebuilt fast, stronger and smarter. In the 20th century, Seattle became known for airplanes, coffee, and music – symbols that still define it today.… Read more

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

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