Been There – Cambodia

Been There – Cambodia is a mug for a country with a rich history that stretches back over a millennium, with the mighty Khmer Empire reaching its zenith between the 9th and 15th centuries. The kingdom’s golden age saw the construction of magnificent temple complexes and the development of sophisticated irrigation systems that supported thriving cities. Ancient Khmer rulers established a powerful civilization that controlled much of Southeast Asia, leaving behind architectural marvels that still inspire awe today. The empire’s influence extended far beyond its borders, spreading Khmer culture, art, and Hindu-Buddhist traditions throughout the region.… Read more

Been There – Honduras

Been There – Honduras is a mug for a country located in the heart of Central America, that has a rich history shaped by ancient civilizations, colonial influence, and cultural diversity. The land was once home to the great Maya civilization, whose impressive ruins still stand today as a testament to their achievements. In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived, bringing new traditions, architecture, and governance to the region. Over the centuries, Honduras evolved into a nation known for its cultural fusion and breathtaking natural landscapes.… Read more

Been There – Laos

Interestingly, the Been There – Laos country mug was released after the Vientiane city mug. Starbucks often takes this approach, so I was not too surprised.

Laos, a landlocked nation in Southeast Asia, has a history that stretches back thousands of years. Once part of the ancient kingdom of Lan Xang, known as the “Land of a Million Elephants,” it flourished as a major regional power from the 14th to the 18th century. Its strategic location along the Mekong River made it an important trade hub and cultural crossroads.… Read more

Discovery Series – Korea

We now have our first look at real-life photos of the Starbucks Discovery Series – Korea mug. At first glance, the box design appears nearly identical to those from the U.S. and Canada. However, there are a few subtle differences: the absence of French text indicating the country of origin, and the prominently displayed volume – 2 fl. oz / 59 mL for the ornament and 16 fl. oz / 414 mL for the mug (see the photo of the covers at the end of the article).… Read more

Discovery Series Ornament – Korea

As promised yesterday, I’m eager to review the design of the Discovery Series Ornament – Korea with you. Much like the other mini mugs in this new collection, it features a notably more minimalist design approach. I do, however, wish the circular element had been rendered in a color other than green – something in line with the variation Starbucks applied to its Disney ornaments.

Here are the symbols from the design of the Discovery Series Ornament Korea that I was able to spot.… Read more

Been There – Bolivia

Been There – Bolivia was released quite a while ago, and I am finally able to add this to my collection. I would like to remind you that this is not the first mug from this country. Interestingly enough, a city mug for Santa Cruz de la Sierra was released two years prior for the largest city in Bolivia.

Bolivia has a rich and complex history that stretches back thousands of years, beginning with ancient civilizations such as the Tiwanaku, who built a powerful culture near Lake Titicaca long before the rise of the Inca Empire.… Read more

You Are Here – Iceland

Starbucks has opened its first store in Iceland, located inside the Alda Hotel on Reykjavík’s main shopping street, Laugavegur. This marks the brand’s official entry into the Icelandic market, bringing its signature coffee experience to both locals and tourists. There is also the exclusive mug released alongside the store launch, You Are Here — Iceland. I can’t wait to add this beauty to my collection!

The unique design of the new mug captures the spirit of Iceland:

Iceland is famously home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the world.… Read more

You Are Here Ornament – Italia

Along with an updated mug for the capital city, Starbucks has also released a new version of the country ornament! A brand-new design was spotted in stores, and it appears to be replacing the previous one. You Are Here Ornament – Italia uses the name Italians actually use for their country. Interestingly, I haven’t seen the larger mug yet, but I’m sure it’s coming soon.

The name “Italia” has ancient roots, tracing back to the Greeks, who referred to a portion of Southern Italy as “Italói,” possibly derived from a word meaning “calf” or “young bull.” This symbol, often associated with fertility and strength, may reflect the region’s pastoral richness.… Read more

You Are Here – Kazakhstan

Interestingly, Kazakhstan was the only country for which Starbucks released an ornament but not a full-size mug. This situation was recently fixed by this brand-new release: the You Are Here – Kazakhstan mug.

Here is what we see in the design of this mug:

Tea drinking is a central part of Kazakhstani culture, often serving as a symbol of hospitality and community. It’s common for Kazakhs to share a pot of tea, typically green or black, with friends and visitors, accompanied by traditional sweets and snacks.… Read more

Been There – Japan Winter

Been There – Japan Winter is the fourth special edition Japan mug. As you remember, it’s the only country that gets a mug per season on top of the regular one.

Japan transforms into a magical winter landscape during the cold months, offering a unique blend of traditional customs and exciting seasonal activities that captivate both locals and visitors. From snow festivals to hot springs and winter cuisine, the season brings out some of the most enchanting aspects of Japanese culture.… Read more

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