Discovery Series – Ottawa

As promised, here are the pictures of the Discovery Series – Ottawa. In addition to the symbols found in the design of the ornament, here is what the big mug has to offer:

The skyline of Ottawa, as seen from Gatineau across the Ottawa River, presents a striking view of the city’s blend of modern architecture and historic landmarks. The silhouette of Parliament Hill stands tall, framed by the green space of Major’s Hill Park, creating a beautiful contrast to the bustling downtown area.… Read more

Been There – Tianjin

Been There – Tianjin is a mug for a city filled to the brim with history, trade, and resilience. Once a crucial port along the Grand Canal, it became a gateway for foreign powers in the 19th century, shaping its blend of Eastern and Western architecture. From the Opium Wars to the Boxer Rebellion, Tianjin has witnessed the turbulence of modern Chinese history, yet it endures as a vibrant metropolis, where colonial-era concessions stand beside soaring skyscrapers, whispering stories of a past that refuses to be forgotten.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Ottawa

My trip to Canada’s capital was a success! I was able to grab a brand-new Discovery Series Ornament – Ottawa and also a big mug that has many more landmarks of the city.

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1826 as Bytown, a settlement built around the construction of the Rideau Canal. It was later renamed Ottawa in 1855 and chosen as the capital of Canada by Queen Victoria in 1857 due to its strategic location between English and French-speaking regions.… Read more

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You Are Here – Baku

Starbucks You Are Here – Baku comes from Azerbaijan, also known as the “Land of Fire.” This country in the South Caucasus region is blending ancient history, rich culture, and modern development.

Baku, the capital of the country, is a vibrant city where ancient history meets modern innovation. The iconic Flame Towers light up the skyline, while the medieval Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases landmarks like the Maiden Tower and the Palace of the Shirvanshahs. Along the Caspian Sea, the city’s waterfront promenade, Baku Boulevard, offers a lively atmosphere with parks, cafes, and stunning views.… Read more

Been There – Nara

Been There – Nara is a mug for a city located in the Kansai region of Japan. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance as the first permanent capital of Japan. The city is home to iconic landmarks like Todai-ji Temple, housing a giant Buddha statue, and Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely. With its blend of ancient temples, shrines, and natural beauty, Nara offers a serene glimpse into Japan’s past.

Here are some landmarks of Nara:

Nara Park is one of the most famous attractions in the city, known for its free-roaming, friendly deer.… Read more

Been There – Hefei

Been There – Hefei is the mug for the capital of Anhui Province, which has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It was a strategic military and administrative center during the Three Kingdoms period, notably linked to the famous general Zhang Liao’s victory at the Battle of Hefei. Over the centuries, the city evolved under various dynasties, serving as a hub of commerce and culture. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Hefei became known for its scholars and officials, contributing to China’s intellectual and political landscape.… Read more

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You Are Here – Al Madinah

After a short break, I am back to exploring unique Starbucks mugs from around the world! This time we’re looking at the design of the recently released You Are Here – Al Madinah. Also known as Medina, it is one of Islam’s holiest cities that holds deep historical significance as the place where Prophet Muhammad and his followers migrated in 622 CE, an event known as the Hijra, marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar. It became the first Islamic state and the site where many key revelations of the Quran were received, shaping the foundations of Islamic governance and community life.… Read more

Been There – Qingdao

Been There – Qingdao is a mug for a city with a history of international influences and cultural transformations. Originally a small fishing village, the city was dramatically changed in 1897 when German colonial forces seized the territory, establishing a concession and significantly developing the area’s infrastructure. The Germans built many distinctive buildings and introduced modern urban planning, including the famous brewery that would become Tsingtao Beer. In 1914, Japan took control of the city during World War I, further altering its landscape and governance.… Read more

You Are Here – Belfort

A friend sent the photos of the You Are Here – Belfort mug to me, and I am excited to share them with you! With this new release, France has more YAH mugs than any other European country now.

Founded in the 13th century, Belfort has a legacy deeply intertwined with its strategic location in the Franche-Comté region. The city was originally established as a defensive stronghold, strategically positioned at the intersection of important trade routes between Germany and France. During the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871, Belfort gained particular fame under the leadership of Colonel Pierre Denfert-Rochereau, who heroically defended the city against a prolonged Prussian siege, earning it the nickname “the unconquered city”.… Read more

Discovery Series – Las Vegas

We reviewed the ornament earlier this year; here’s the bigger version of the mug: Discovery Series – Las Vegas.

Las Vegas began as a small railroad town in 1905, founded on land auctioned by the San Pedro, Los Angeles, and Salt Lake Railroad. Initially a modest settlement in the Mojave Desert, the city experienced a dramatic transformation with the construction of the Hoover Dam in the 1930s, which brought thousands of workers to the area. The pivotal moment came in 1941 when mobster Bugsy Siegel opened the Flamingo Hotel, effectively launching the modern Las Vegas Strip and establishing the city’s reputation as a gambling and entertainment destination.… Read more

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