Embark on a 17-day Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona to Athens, sailing through Spain, France, Italy, Montenegro, and Greece—with two full days at sea for reflection. Along the way, I carried more than just luggage—I brought my Hopes dad cap and Carry Hopes tote bag, accompanying me as I collected the sunshine and stories of summer with Hopes, one stop at a time.
What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise: HOPES Essentials
- HOPES Dad Cap: For sun protection, effortless style, and meaningful brand identity.
- Carry Hopes Tote: Lightweight, foldable, and strong enough for daily adventures.
- Travel Journal: For capturing reflections and memories during sea days.
Barcelona, Spain: Gaudí, Gothic Quarter & Pre-Departure Calm
Before setting sail, we stayed two nights in Barcelona, taking in the relaxed pace of the city. Known for its world-renowned architecture, Barcelona felt like a living art exhibit. From Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Família to the mosaic-tiled Park Güell and the cobblestone alleys of the Gothic Quarter,
Before setting sail, we spent two nights in Barcelona, exploring the world-renowned architecture from the Sagrada Família to Park Güell and the alleys of the Gothic Quarter - each location was a perfect showcase of urban aesthetics.
Marseille, France｜Morning Light and Harbor Paths of Southern France
Our first port was Marseille, the second-largest city in France, known for its Mediterranean calm and charm. With my Hopes tote bag on my shoulder, I wandered from the Vieux-Port (Old Port) through the winding alleys of Le Panier, I wandered with my HOPES tote, feeling the breeze and freedom of travel. Later, we took a taxi to Notre-Dame de la Garde, a basilica perched high above the city. From there, the view of the endless blue Mediterranean felt like a promise—one of adventure and wonder still to come.
Italy Cruise Ports: Genoa, Rome, and Capri Highlights
Genoa｜A Warm-Up for Cinque Terre
Genoa’s harbor and colorful skyline were unexpectedly captivating. Walking through the narrow streets of Piazza delle Fontane Marose, the bright walls created the perfect backdrop for photos with my Hopes cap and tote. Not every memorable moment comes from a landmark—sometimes it’s a quiet wall or a scoop of gelato that leaves the biggest impression.
Strolling from the old town to Porto Antico (Old Port) and hopping on the tourist cable car, Genoa's history and culture unfolded before my eyes. This city was once an important stronghold of maritime power and still retains the elegant charm of the seafaring era.
Civitavecchia (Rome)｜History Beneath My Feet
From the port, we drove into Rome, beginning at the majestic St. Peter’s Basilica. With a local guide, we walked through Borgo, crossed Ponte, continued through Campo Marzio and Sant’Eustachio, past Piazza di Monte Citorio and Colonna, passed the Trevi Fountain, and reached the Colosseum, as if walking through millennia of historical corridors.
With my Carry Hopes tote packed with sunscreen, a water bottle, and my camera, I felt prepared for both the heat and the history. Every photo with ancient ruins was a fusion of past and present.
Naples (Capri)｜A Token of Hope
At Naples, we took a small boat to Capri Island. This place was filled with exotic island resort vibes that were utterly enchanting. The mystery of the Blue Grotto and the leisure of the island town—every spot was as beautiful as a postcard.
In a quiet moment, I slipped a Hopes sticker onto a red mailbox—a tiny token of gratitude, a silent wish. It was a way to say that my brand, too, had arrived. In this distant corner of the Mediterranean, Hopes left its mark.
What to Do on Sea Days During a Cruise
During our days at sea, I had time to breathe. Mornings on the deck with coffee, afternoons by the pool with my journal, and evenings indulging in the cruise’s fine dining—this was the rhythm I didn’t know I needed. Staring out at the endless horizon, I found myself asking: Why did I create Hopes? What does this journey have to do with the brand?
The answers came slowly. Hopes is about adding a spirit of adventure to everyday life. Like the cap that shielded me from the sun or the bag that carried my essentials, the brand isn’t just about the items, but in the inspiration that it can give people—where they take you, who it can help you become.
Montenegro & Greece｜From Mountain Towns to Whitewashed Streets
Bar, Montenegro｜A Hidden Gem
Montenegro was a country I'd never heard of, and Bar was a city completely unknown to me, yet I unexpectedly fell in love with its small but beautiful lake views and tranquil streets. No tourist crowds, only the leisurely rhythm of local life.
Here I couldn't help but take several more photos, especially with my Hopes tote bag in frame. This city's color palette perfectly complemented Hopes' minimalist lines, unexpectedly becoming my favorite styling backdrop.
Corfu, Greece｜The True Blue of the Mediterranean
Greece's first stop, Corfu Island, where the sunshine remained intense, and my Hopes hat continued to serve—for sun protection and to add a familiar touch to my photos. Corfu's old town preserved Venetian-era architectural styles and featured many specialty shops and cafés.
Boarding the HOHO Bus at Old Port and getting off at Garitsa station, just meters from Corfu's city center, I could walk to the Anemomylos windmill that once met local residents' grain needs but now serves as decoration. Standing before the windmill with sea breezes gently blowing, it felt like time had reversed to that simpler era.
Three Greek Islands｜A Gentle Closing Chapter
Crete｜Walking Through the Cradle of Civilization
Crete, the largest Greek island, is also one of the cradles of European civilization. The sunshine here was exceptionally warm, the seawater exceptionally clear—a perfect vacation destination. We enjoyed the water, sun and seafood.
Mykonos｜The Romance of Blue and White
Mykonos Island's blue-and-white architecture represents the most classic visual symbol of the Aegean Sea. Every door and wall in the small alleys seemed like carefully designed artwork. Here, my Hopes tote bag perfectly blended with the island's blue-and-white tones, creating the most romantic travel memories.
The famous windmill complex was particularly moving at sunset, and here I secretly placed another Hopes sticker, letting my brand's footprint spread across the Aegean Sea.
Athens｜A Hat with a View of Mythology
In Athens, wearing my Hopes dad cap and standing before the Parthenon, I wasn't just a tourist but a traveler dialoguing with this city. Every artifact in the Acropolis Museum told stories of ancient Greek glory, while I recorded present beauty in my own way—with perspective, with style, with hope. Wearing Hopes isn’t just about fashion—it’s about having the courage to begin.
Back to Reality, Final Reflection
Even after returning to California, I still habitually grab that hat and shoulder that bag when going out as they are my daily essentials.
This trip wasn’t just a vacation. It was a rediscovery of my love for exploration—and a realization that HOPES isn’t just a brand. It’s a way of seeing the world.
It represents curiosity about the unknown, longing for beauty, and the courage to step beyond the comfort zone. Every departure is a redefinition of life.
Where Will Your Hopes Go?
If you’ve taken a journey with Hopes too, I’d love to hear about it. Where should we go next? A new country or a corner of your hometown—everywhere becomes beautiful when you carry hope with you.
