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We're having some fun trying to find the right name for our next PBS pledge special. I'm really excited about giving people a sneak peek at our new shows, so we're fast-tracking the post-production of one of the six we shot this summer — Croatia. Here's the discussion so far between me and my marketing director, Rich Sorensen. Any name ideas from our friends in blog-land are plenty welcome.

Rick to staff:
I'm planning on doing a PBS pledge special featuring Mediterranean destinations called "Mediterranean Hopscotch." Rick

Hi Guys,
Is that name final? I'd like to help come up with a name. I don't think "Mediterranean Hopscotch" sounds very enticing. And further more, it makes people think of Scotland — which isn't very Mediterranean.
~Rich.

Rich,
If you have a better name, let me know...but I don't think scotch tape means Scotland. It needs to be four words: Rick Steves' Mediterranean xxx. Your turn, sir.
Rick

Rick Steves' European Dream Cruise Special
Join Rick Steves on this video voyage connecting southern Europe's most captivating ports of call, from bustling Barcelona to exotic Istanbul. Along the way we'll explore the Riviera, Greece's rugged Peloponnese coast — and get a fresh look along the Adriatic with Rick's all-new show on Croatia.
~Rich.

I don't like cruise. It's not a cruise. How about these:
Mediterranean Treasures
Mediterranean Niblets
Mediterranean Treats
The Iliad and the Wet Dream
Mediterranean Charms
Mediterranean Gems
Rick

How about these:
Mediterranean Mambo
Mediterranean Magic
Mediterranean Meanderings
Mediterranean Gems
Mediterranean Harbors
Mediterranean Favorites
Mediterranean Moments
Mediterranean Sun
Mediterranean Shores
Mediterranean Mix
Mediterranean Medley
Mediterranean Mosey
~Rich.

Or this:
Mediterranean Serendipity
~Rich.

Rich,
Rick Steves' Mediterranean Serendipity — that's the best so far.
Rick

About This Entry

You are reading "Mediterranean Hopscotch Won't Work", an entry posted on 02 October 2009 by Rick Steves.

59 replies to this entry. Add your comment below.


Comments  [ top ]

I like " Mediterranean Meanderings " personally.. But then I just like the word " Meanderings " Serendipity is well.. I mean I know PBS viewers are on average smarter than say.. Fox Viewers.. but how many are going to wonder .. now.. what does Serendipity mean..

Posted by: Annonymous - Oct 02, 2009 4:13 PM
Mediterranean Ramble? I also like Medley... Pam

Posted by: Pam - Oct 02, 2009 4:14 PM
How about Mediterranean Delights??

Posted by: christi - Oct 02, 2009 5:41 PM
Just out of curiosity "Annonymous" (which you spelled wrong), which study or survey are you citing regarding the "smarts" of Fox viewers and PBS viewers. Wondering, John XXX, Ph.D. Fox Viewer & PBS Viewer P.S. Rick - I like "Mediterranean Moments"

Posted by: John - Oct 02, 2009 5:42 PM
How about Mediterranean Dream?

Posted by: D+M - Oct 02, 2009 6:24 PM
Rick, I like Mediterranean Treasures! From my trips around that area, it is a treasure.

Posted by: Judy - Oct 02, 2009 6:47 PM
I like Mediterranean Magnificence or Mediterranean Meanderings Looking forward to the show on Croatia!

Posted by: Cote D'azur Dreamer - Oct 02, 2009 7:28 PM
Rick Steves Mediterranean Madness Rick Steves Marvelous Mediterranean Rick Steves Mare Nostrum (just kidding) Rick Steves Travelers of the Mediterranean (aarrrgh!) Rick Steves Mythic Mediterranean That's all I got.

Posted by: Thomas, Vienna - Oct 02, 2009 11:45 PM
I like "Rick Steves' Mediterranean Medley". I describes a harmonious mix and uses alliteration as well as having a two syllable end word and the words "Rick Steves'" serve as book ends for the longer word, Mediterranean. It has sort of an 'a-b-a' harmony in terms of music or poetry.

Posted by: Dick, Denver - Oct 03, 2009 12:20 AM
The Iliad and the Wet Dream, though clearly impossible for a PBS title (or family friendly special or, well, anything with good taste) made me laugh. In another world, I'd vote for that one. :)

Posted by: Jen - Oct 03, 2009 12:56 AM
I am sticking with "Mediterranean Meanderings" that I said in the last blog entry. Heres what Dictionary.com said about Meander me·an·der (m-ndr) intr.v. me·an·dered, me·an·der·ing, me·an·ders 1. To follow a winding and turning course: Streams tend to meander through level land. 2. To move aimlessly and idly without fixed direction: vagabonds meandering through life. See Synonyms at wander. n. 1. meanders Circuitous windings or sinuosities, as of a stream or path. 2. A circuitous journey or excursion; ramble. Often used in the plural. 3. An ornamental pattern of winding or intertwining lines, used in art and architecture. Doesn't that sum up the MED?

Posted by: Fred in Atlanta - Oct 03, 2009 4:25 AM
How about Mediterranean Mosaic?

Posted by: Karen - Oct 03, 2009 6:25 AM
Rick, knowing your love of alliteration, I came up with this: Rick Steves' Mediterranean Migration And a few more... Rick Steves' Mediterranean Menagerie Rick Steves' Mediterranean Marvels Rick Steves' Mediterranean Melody

Posted by: Jeff - Oct 03, 2009 6:58 AM
Rick.... how about "Rick Steves' Mediterranean Menagerie" referring to the 'varied mixture' the Med has to offer? Lots to choose from..... good luck!

Posted by: Mike - Oct 03, 2009 7:40 AM
I'm with Dick -- I like the alliteration of Mediterranean M** and a two-syllable M-word. I think "moments" would work because my best travel memories are not of itineraries or places but specific moments.... Or how about 'Mediterranean Magic'? The phrase 'Mediterranean Odyssey' also keeps running non-alliteratively through my mind, but I think the connotations of Odyssey are a little negative... all those travel disasters, to get home to find a house full of those who were wishing you dead....

Posted by: Liz - Oct 03, 2009 9:51 AM
I second Christi's suggestion of 'Rick Steves' Mediterranean Delights'. If you've had sweets in Turkey, they are often called 'Turkish Delights'. They are all different and are all delicious in their own way. It sorta' reminds me of the line in the movie 'Forest Gump' where Forest's mom suggests life is like a box of chocolates. Well to me, the Mediterranean is like a box of Mediterranean Delights. My family is from Southern Montenegro. Best, Sulejman

Posted by: Sulejman - Oct 03, 2009 10:40 AM
Lots of compromis'n on the way to your horizon as you add syllables to your title words for the show. As for me, I've always had a soft spot for: MEDITERRANEAN MARVELS or The Marvelous Mediterranean (I also know a muse from the mediterranean but that's another story.) It's easier to just recognize Deanna Woodruff and her team for the great job on the 2010 Rick Steves' Tour Catalogue - a superior brochure which should pay dividends. bill kester pendleton, sc

Posted by: bill kester - Oct 03, 2009 11:58 AM
med medly I know Rick likes his alliterations

Posted by: dan - Oct 03, 2009 4:26 PM
med medly I know Rick likes his alliterations

Posted by: dan - Oct 03, 2009 4:27 PM
I vote for Karen's idea..so far the most original and smartest suggestion so far. (Good work Karen!)

Posted by: Alfran (Ready For Istanbul) - Oct 03, 2009 8:03 PM
How about Mediterranean Spices?

Posted by: Jane - Oct 03, 2009 9:24 PM
I like Mediterranean Serendipity.....How about......Mediterranean Destiny.....

Posted by: Bill27 - Oct 04, 2009 11:15 AM
Thanks for all this help. So far, my favorites are: Mediterranean Mosaic, Delights, Medley, and Treasures. I appreciate your input. Of these, what's the best?

Posted by: Rick - Oct 04, 2009 12:07 PM
They are all worthy, but I'll go with Delights. It seems to fit with the idea of southern Europes's most "captivating ports of call".

Posted by: Catherine - Oct 04, 2009 12:58 PM
My vote goes to Mediterranean Mosaic, because the area is made up of many small, colorful, sometimes glittering, different pieces which, viewed together, form an enchantingly beautiful whole picture.

Posted by: louisa - Oct 04, 2009 1:48 PM
Mediterranean Mosiac is darn good. It truly is a mosiac and the sum of all those people, places, and history make up a very unique culture.

Posted by: Fred in Atlanta - Oct 04, 2009 2:23 PM
1. Medley 2. Mosaic

Posted by: Jeff - Oct 04, 2009 4:07 PM
finally a discussion that has nothing to do with politics! Put me down for Mosaic, medley seems too much like a mystery salad.

Posted by: the other Jeff - Oct 04, 2009 4:21 PM
"Mediterranean Mosaic" gets my vote.

Posted by: Karen D - Oct 04, 2009 5:52 PM
Another vote for "Mosaic".

Posted by: Dave P - Oct 04, 2009 6:01 PM
Mediterranean Moments or Mosaic for me

Posted by: A - Oct 04, 2009 7:59 PM
I like Mosaic of the choices stated by Rick.........but my FAVORITE is ......Mediterranean Delights.......this is fun....let us know Rick the winner soon....

Posted by: Bill27 - Oct 04, 2009 8:10 PM
Mediterranean Seashores (get it?). Or Mediterranean Mélange, for another M suggestion. Actually, I do like Mediterranean Odyssey, as it's a literary reference to the culture of the region, just like Mosaic references Mediterranean art. Serendipity doesn't make much sense to me in this context, though it's a word I enjoy in general. Fun conversation!

Posted by: Colleen - Oct 04, 2009 9:46 PM
I'd go with Mosaic.

Posted by: Mike - Oct 05, 2009 7:24 AM
How about Rick Steves' Mediterranean Charms?

Posted by: John J. Bannan - Oct 05, 2009 7:29 AM
Sorry, you already listed "Charms". How about Charm Bracelet?

Posted by: John J. Bannan - Oct 05, 2009 7:41 AM
I like Medley, Mosaic and Magic. Hmph, don't like my captcha "weakling." I am NOT a weakling! LOL!

Posted by: Nancy - Oct 05, 2009 7:50 AM
How about "Rick Steves Mediterranean Montage"? And no, PBS viewers are not smarter than Fox viewers. They just think they are.

Posted by: Stimpy - Oct 05, 2009 9:31 AM
One can't help noticing the difference between this blog and your travel as a political act blog. While you tackle important issues there, folks just don't respond. On this blog, over 35 people have responded to the challenge of the name for the new series, are having fun doing it, and are secretly (or not so secretly) glad that this is a non-political issue. Like it or not, travel tips and fun are what people look for on your blogs.

Posted by: louisa - Oct 05, 2009 10:12 AM
Mediterranean Mystique

Posted by: Andy - Oct 05, 2009 11:49 AM
1. Medley 2. Mosaic

Posted by: Kristie - Oct 05, 2009 3:56 PM
Did I mention I liked Mediterranean Mosiac?

Posted by: Alfran - Oct 05, 2009 6:52 PM
I like "Treasures"

Posted by: Diane from Kennewcik - Oct 05, 2009 7:55 PM
I like "Mediterranean Mosaics," but I can foresee confusion abounding with it. Some people might be misled upfront into thinking the show is about mosaics (of the artistic kind) and that may or may not have a desirable result. I'll vote for "Mediterranean Treasures" or "Simply Mediterranean" or "Mediterranean Charms."

Posted by: Catherine C. - Oct 06, 2009 10:37 AM
Sorry, it's supposed to be singular, "Mediterranean Mosaic." Still, it might be misleading to some.

Posted by: Catherine C. - Oct 06, 2009 10:39 AM
Time to close this thread out....

Posted by: Seriously - Oct 06, 2009 12:41 PM
Dear Seriously, Agreed.

Posted by: Trish - Oct 06, 2009 2:39 PM
Love Mosiac!!

Posted by: Barbara - Oct 06, 2009 4:49 PM
Just wanted to say I'm thrilled that you are doing shows on Croatia. I just moved home from a two year teaching experience there. It is gorgeous, not too expensive, and not flooded with American tourists. Also just happened to be flipping through your Dancing with Europa journal and saw you had been to Rovinj. Had a huge laugh that you couldn't put the untouristy bars in your guidebook!

Posted by: Allyson - Oct 06, 2009 5:21 PM
I haven't seen the suggestion in a quick scan but, could I suggest Mediterranean Odyssey?

Posted by: Mike - Oct 07, 2009 7:36 AM
Mediterranean "Through the Coastal Door"

Posted by: Pat - Oct 07, 2009 10:13 AM
I vote for "Mediterranean Odyssey". The point of Rick's advice and tools is to create a well planned trip without meanderings that allow one to be without stress. Odyssey best describes this type of trip. Definitions of Odyssey A Greek epic poem. Also: A long wandering and eventful journey An extended adventurous voyage or trip. An intellectual or spiritual quest: an odyssey of discovery

Posted by: Seattle Joe - Oct 07, 2009 11:33 AM
Mediterranean Mosaic is great! Mosaics can be found all over the Mediterranean... Gaudi's Park Guell, ancient mosaics uncovered at Pompeii, in Islamic art. I also like the metaphor, how small pieces (countries) are singular on their own, but together can make up a beautiful, cohesive image (the Mediterranean region). But I will watch it, whatever the title is!

Posted by: annie - Oct 07, 2009 12:52 PM
Mediterranean Connect-the-dots although Odyssey and Mosaic are really good

Posted by: elysia - Oct 07, 2009 2:34 PM
I love Mediterranean Mosaic! I can't wait to watch it and am so looking forward to the Croatia section.

Posted by: Another smart Fox & PBS viewer - Oct 07, 2009 5:14 PM
How about "Mediteranean Meditations" or did someone come up with that already?

Posted by: Jana - Oct 08, 2009 11:19 AM
I like "delights"--seems more lighthearted --and we certainly were delighted with our time spent in Croatia and the Riveria. Second choice would be mosaic--more serious and intellectual sounding.

Posted by: Pauline - Oct 08, 2009 5:08 PM
To Seriously and Trish, My post was meant to be read as playful sarcasm. Congrats. to Karen!

Posted by: Catherine C. - Oct 09, 2009 4:32 AM
Med Medley had the best ring and descriptor for me - hands down the best in the list!

Posted by: Pat in Iowa - Oct 10, 2009 10:02 AM

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