☕️ Craving a Matcha Abroad? A True Traveler’s Guide to Starbucks, Rewards Points & Global Sips

Familiar comfort in far-flung places — how (and where) to make your Starbucks strategy work when you’re traveling.

After a few whirlwind days abroad—navigating local food stalls, deciphering public transit, adjusting to jet lag—there’s often a moment when all I want is a little taste of home. For me, that’s a Starbucks matcha latte made in the USA! Earthy, slightly sweet, and comforting. It’s a ritual. A little green hug in a cup.

But if you're a Starbucks Rewards member, here’s the kicker: not all Starbucks are created equal, and your loyalty points might not travel as far as your passport does. Let’s break down what every points-savvy True Traveler needs to know.

✈️ Does Starbucks Exist Everywhere?

Starbucks is in 80+ countries, with tens of thousands of stores. From Seoul to São Paulo, Cairo to Copenhagen—you’re likely to spot that familiar green siren. But not every store is operated the same way, and not every country participates in Rewards.

🌍 Where Can I Use My Starbucks Rewards Points?

Generally, you earn/redeem Stars in the market your account is registered in. Some regions have their own apps and separate programs. Examples of markets with Rewards programs include:

  • United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Mexico
  • Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan
  • Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore

Heads-up: Stars earned in one country usually can’t be redeemed in another. When you land, download the local Starbucks app to see if tourists can join and what perks exist.

🧠 Smart Tips to Get Your Matcha Fix Without Breaking the Bank

  1. Use local payment discounts. E-wallets (e.g., GrabPay/WeChat Pay) sometimes unlock promos.
  2. Bring a reusable cup. Small discounts add up on daily lattes.
  3. Hunt for local deals. Look for weekday BOGOs or stamp cards in regional apps.
  4. Join local Rewards temporarily. If you’ll be there a week or more, it’s often worth it.

📍 Bonus: Starbucks in Unexpected Places — as Postcards

Photos are “postcard-style” location shots of places where you’ll also find Starbucks nearby.

Istanbul skyline and Bosphorus
Istanbul, Türkiye — Bosphorus views + a green siren never far away.
Kyoto historic street near Yasaka pagoda
Kyoto, Japan — sip matcha near a restored machiya townhouse.
Petra, Jordan — Al-Khazneh (The Treasury)
Petra/Aqaba, Jordan — caffeine before or after ancient wonders.
Dubai skyline near Burj Khalifa
Dubai, UAE — from malls like Ibn Battuta to skyline views.
Zurich old town and Limmat river
Zurich, Switzerland — a cozy cup along the Limmat.

🧳 Final Sip: Comfort, With a Side of Strategy

There’s nothing wrong with wanting a familiar flavor while you’re far from home. Just remember: tech and rewards are still fragmented by region. Adapt locally, and keep an open mind — there’s joy in discovering new spins on your favorites.