Discovery Series Ornament – Vail

Starbucks skipped Vail in the previous collection, but it returns gloriously in the form of both a mug and the Discovery Series Ornament Vail.

Vail is a mountain town in central Colorado known for its alpine setting and carefully planned resort design. Founded in 1962, the town grew alongside the development of Vail Ski Resort, which was inspired by European alpine villages and built with outdoor recreation at its core. Over time, Vail evolved from a small ski destination into one of the most recognized mountain resorts in North America, balancing luxury, nature, and year-round adventure.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Banff

Discovery Series Ornament Banff is the mini mug for a mountain town set within Canada’s first national park and surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in the Canadian Rockies. Established in 1885 following the discovery of natural hot springs, Banff quickly became a destination for travellers drawn to alpine landscapes and fresh mountain air. The arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway helped shape Banff into an international tourism icon, blending wilderness preservation with early resort culture.

Moraine Lake is one of the most recognizable natural landmarks associated with Banff.… Read more

Been There – Malacca

Since I could find good pictures of the Been There Malacca mug, I suggest you check out this post about the ornament for this Malaysian city that I have in my collection. In terms of the design, they are very similar.

Malacca, officially known as Melaka, is one of Malaysia’s most historically significant cities, shaped by centuries of maritime trade and cultural exchange. Founded in the early 15th century as a Malay sultanate, it rose quickly as a major port along the Strait of Malacca, drawing traders from China, India, the Middle East, and Europe.… Read more

Discovery Series – Twin Cities

The design of the Discovery Series Twin Cities has many more elements when compared to the ornament for the same city.

The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul form the cultural and economic heart of Minnesota, shaped by rivers, industry, and innovation. Both cities grew rapidly in the mid-19th century as milling, railroad, and river commerce centers along the Mississippi River. Today, the Twin Cities balance historic architecture, natural landmarks, and a strong tradition of creativity and outdoor life.… Read more

Discovery Series – San Miguel

Along with the country mug, El Salvador gets a mug for its third most populous city: Discovery Series San Miguel

San Miguel is one of El Salvador’s most vibrant eastern cities, shaped by Indigenous roots, Spanish colonial history, and its long role as a regional commercial and cultural center. Founded in 1530, the city grew around agriculture, trade, and religious traditions, later becoming known for its lively festivals and strong local identity. The illustrated design reflects this blend of history, celebration, and everyday life that defines San Miguel today.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Singapore

These are official images of the Discovery Series Ornament Singapore taken from the Starbucks website, and all credits go to them. According to the Starbucks blog, the mug and ornament are scheduled to be released tomorrow, January 28. This makes Singapore the second country in Asia, after Korea, to receive items from the Discovery collection. One thing to note is that the cover of the box is plain and simple, with just one variation of the collection name on it: Discovery Series.… Read more

Been There – Bangkok

Been There Bangkok is a mug for a city where ancient temples, bustling waterways, vibrant street life, and modern energy come together at the heart of Thailand. You might also like this article about the Bangkok ornament.

Bangkok has grown from a riverside trading settlement into Thailand’s capital over more than two centuries. Founded as the capital in 1782 under King Rama I, the city became the political, cultural, and economic heart of the country. Its history is closely tied to the Chao Phraya River, which supported commerce, royal ceremonies, and daily life, shaping the city’s layout and identity, which continues today.… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Aspen

Discovery Series Ornament Aspen is a mini mug for a mountain town where alpine scenery, outdoor adventure, and year-round culture come together at high elevation.

Aspen’s history began as a silver mining town in the late 19th century, when prospectors arrived during the Colorado Silver Boom of the 1870s and 1880s. After the collapse of the silver market, the town experienced a long, quiet period before being rediscovered in the mid-20th century as a ski destination. Visionaries transformed Aspen into an international resort while preserving its historic core and natural surroundings.… Read more

Been There – Pune

A blog reader shared pictures of yet another release from India. Been There Pune has a minimalistic design and, as usual, features the symbols and landmarks of the city.

Pune’s history dates back over a millennium, although it gained prominence in the 17th century when Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj established it as a key Maratha stronghold. The city became the seat of the Peshwa rulers in 1714, transforming into the de facto capital of the Maratha Empire. British colonial rule brought military cantonments and educational institutions that earned Pune the title “Oxford of the East.” The city played a significant role in India’s independence movement, producing freedom fighters and social reformers.… Read more

Been There – Kolkata

Been There Kolkata is a mug for a major cultural and historical city in eastern India, known for its colonial heritage, art, and literature.

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, served as the capital of British India from 1773 to 1911, growing from a small trading post into a major imperial city. The British East India Company established its presence in the late 1600s, transforming the area into a commercial hub. Kolkata became the center of the Bengal Renaissance in the 19th century, producing literary giants, reformers, and artists who shaped modern Indian culture.… Read more

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