Cruising Spring Break Key West

     I find it interesting all that happens down here during the Spring Break time.     Yesterday I hopped on my scooter with camera in hand and started driving and walking around Key West to see what this is all about.     I find all the energy that the kid have very refreshing and fun to watch.     Many saw so many things at once that they didn't seem to know which one they really want to do first.
 Many rent scooters and this mobility carries them all over the island, horns blowing at every other scooter they meet and just having a lot of fun.     The one thing that all of them have in common is the huge smiles on their faces and a look of relief just being down here in the sun.

     Many of the others are busy meeting new friends and shopping on Duval Street.     You literally see thousands of kids introducing themselves to each other and going in and out of shops everywhere you look all over old town.
I find it amazing how much fun and how little strife there is as these kids intermingle while getting to know each other.    Even though there are a lot of rival schools present, it really doesn't seem to matter unlike it does back home.     Sure they are all proud of their school, but it isn't the pressing issue down here in the sunshine.

     The other thing I'm impressed with so far is the manners and the respect they are showing each other and the locals around Key West.     Unlike years past when things were being trashed by the revelers.     As a bartender, I really appreciate the polite manner in which they are conducting themselves in my place.     Yes the streets are jammed with people traffic is snarled, but people are having fun and not stepping on other peoples toes to badly as they party through the streets and beaches.    Keep up the good work and have yourselves a blast.       ;o)

Spring Break: Key West 2011



"Where the Boys Are" 1961

      It has descended upon us, Spring Break 2011.     This is a fun time of year for most of us down here in Key West, with in influx if thousands of college kids here to escape the chilly north and the pressures of school for a week or so.     This is a tradition of college students that was really kicked into high gear in 1961 with the movie "Where the Boys Are" that told the story of 4 Midwest college co-eds going to Fort Lauderdale for their spring vacation.      The adventures these gals have as they seek out romance and fun on their vacation.     This was a bit of a provocative movie for the day, but very tame by today's standards.     

      Anyway this is kind of the start of a tradition that still takes place today as thousands upon thousands of college kids head to the tropics and Key West for their spring breaks.     Key West provides a special attraction for the college kids these days because of the safety, close proximity, and it is in America.     This means no passports, border crossings of foreign police.     Key West with it's "live and let live" attitude allows these spring breakers to be themselves and not have to be worried about what people think about them.    

Key West offers large beaches with relative freedom to party and dance to loud music all day long and the Duval Street night life is hard to beat at any other venue.     Day time is a constant parade of bicycle, scooters, and pedestrians moving to and from the beaches, restaurants, and bars as these kids frolic in the tropical sunshine.     One of the gr e at phenomenon that takes place here in Key West is how the locals and the tourists seem to be able to blend and both enjoy the same spaces as the "normal" year-round party's just ramp up a bit for spring break.     2011 looks to be one of the bigger turn outs for Key West, because of the cold weather up North and even in northern Florida, and the additional safety issues in Mexico and other places, Key West seems to be the destination of choice this year.  

     Over the next few weeks I'll be covering "Spring Break 2011" as it is just getting underway and will continue til Easter.     Come along and join me as we get to see what this traditional migration is all about.   ;o)

Rumstylin to the Oldies



Callwood Still in Operation.

      The oldest continuously operated pot still in the world, having been in operation for more that 200 years.     Their rum is brewed from sugar cane juice rather than molasses.     This method according to Michael Callwood, current proprietor, is the best to produce a pure authentic rum.     Many claims of the medicinal properties of this style of rum, but there is not a shred of scientific proof that these clams are true.      The exact age of the distillery is not known, but based upon the architecture of the buildings it is thought to be from the mid 1700's.     The Callwood's have owned the distillery since the late 1800's and today it is still being operated by the Callwood's.



Oak barrels and Old Still

      The distillery is an operating museum of rum distillation with the demijohns, large glass bottles used to store white rum, the oak barrels used to age the amber rums, and the old burned out still in the store.     You can buy a bottle of Arundel Rum at the distillery, of which I do have one in my collection, or just taste it there in the distillery .     The collection of relics and the rum making operation seem to be one of the same.     Have seen some of the most modern of the rum distilleries, it is refreshing to go back in rum history and see the art of rum making being done in the old traditional way.

     Richard Callwood, a buccaneer from the 1800's, and owner of Little Thatch Island, bought the Arundel Estate on Cane Garden Bay for his son Richard, Jr.     The Estate is where the distillery is today.     Michael Callwood is a fourth generation Callwood to operate the distillery.     The next time you visit Cane Garden Bay, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, this is a must see for the true rumstyler.        Be sure and taste the rums especially the oer proof that is straight off of the stills.     ;o)

The American Tiki Hut

     As I boat around the canals and waterways here in Key West I occasionally come upon a Tiki Hut or two.     This picture that a friend of mine sent me recently reminds me, with daylight savings time starting next Saturday that it is time to clean up the back patio or tiki hut bar and get it ready for spring and summer rumstylin'.     Some of our Florida friends have already started having backyard parties already, but as the warm weather slowly pushed it's way back up north it is time to begin preparation.     

     I just love the stuff people find to put under the roof of their tiki huts.     I have a friend that has his decorated with a Landshark Surfboard, like the one in the picture, oars from a "Cuban Chug" ( refugee boat), fishing nets and floats, beer signs, and any other bits of nautical debris that has floated ashore and collected.     These tiki huts seem to be the location of some of the craziest and funest parties that I've ever attended.     There is something about a tiki hut, a warm afternoon or evening, and a bottle or two of your favorite rum that says PARTY loud and clear.    No matter where the tiki hut is, it takes you and your mind to a beautiful tropical location and hanging out on the beach.    Folks it don't get any better than that.     If you don't have one, just build yourself one, you won't regret it.     ;o) 

Rumstylin' with Plantation 20th Anniversary Barbados Rum

     Alexandre Gabriel the master blender at Cognac Ferrnad has released one of the finest yet from the Plantation collection.       This elegant rosewood colored rum has a viscosity and flavor that really stays with you long after the rum should have finished.     Gabriel's methodology of starting the aging process in Bourbon barrels the finishing it in the fine cognac barrels used in the production of the Cognac Ferrnad spirits has produced a very unique and high quality spirit.    

    20th Anniversary Plantation Extra Old Barbados Rum has an incredible bouquet that is carried straight to the pallet where the fruity spicy flavors come to life.    There is a distinctive finish that seems to last and last, making it easy to sit in the evening and sip this fine rum.    

     This is the flagship of the Plantation line of multi-matured rums that are brought to the French chateau from, Barbados, St. Lucia, Jamaica, Guyana, Panama, Grenada, Trinidad, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.     The process of aging in unique manners by Alexandre Gabriel and his people has produced a line of really outstanding rums that bring out each countries rum strengths and flavors.     If you haven't taken the opportunity to try this fine Plantation rum, then you need to add this one to the collection.     ;o)

Searching for a Story



Hurricane Hole Marina

      Last night, and this morning I've been searching for some thing to happen that would have a story in it.     It was one of those evenings that just sort of happened while the clients of the Hurricane Hole sat at the bar, sipped their cocktails, and watched the basketball game on the television.     Most of us were either tired from the week's work or just in a quiet mood.     Our friend the Captain had to load up his sailboat on the trailer and head back to Colorado on Friday morning, and spring break hasn't quite happened yet.    

     The bartenders are busy between the service bar and the rest of us sitting there finishing our drinks and requesting new ones in a endless manor.      The Texas Hold 'em game is in full swing up stairs, and the evening continues along without anything sparking  my interest for a story.     Even the dogs that are usually running around looking for bits of food dropped by the patrons are lying around content to have someone pet them on the head or scratch their backs as they walk by.      I guess I'll just finish up my rum and mosey down the dock and see who's at the other end and go up stairs to see if there is anything happening there.    

     It's still uneventful here, but the more I think about that, the more I'm enjoying it.     Actually it is becoming the story today.    Sometimes quiet and slow moving nights are the best ones.     They just bring you to a place where all is right with the world and we don't really need to have the place on fire and people going at a hundred miles an hour to have a really nice rumstylin' evening.    The funny part of today was there is really a story in the fact that there is no story, and I sometimes forget to enjoy the nothing and the quiet.     ;o)

    

Rumstylin in Old San Juan



Arriving at the Castillo San Felipe del Morro

      Puerto Rico is another of the Caribbean islands that has very unique attributes, relatively old historic sites, party sites and just plain sites.     I think about Old San Juan ( the walled city) and remember wandering through El Morro (Castillo San Felipe del  Morro), the largest Spanish built fort in the world.     This magnificent structure was named to honor King Phillip II of Spain, the fort also known as El Morro, or promontory, construction of the fort began in 1539 after King Charles the V saw the need to protect the entrance to San Juan Bay and San Juan.     He authorized it's construction including the surrounding walls and construction began.         50 later years in 1589 it was "completed".     The original fortress is only a small percentage of what you will see today when you visit El Morro.     Spanish control of the Island ended in 1898 when the United States Navy bombarded El Morro in the last battle during the Spanish-American War.     The United States fired it s first shots of World War I from one of the fort's batteries in 1915.     El Morro was turned over to the National Park Service after the U.S. Army moved out of the fort in 1961.     President Regan declaired the site a "World Heritage Site" in 1983, and in 1992 El Morro's resturation to it's 18th century  appearance was completed.

     The walled city, Old San Juan, today is a wonderful place to wander with it's narrow streets and curious little shops, restaurants, and bars.   The strong Spanish architecture influence is easily apparent as you wander these cobble stone streets.     The restaurants serve everything from traditional Puerto Rican dishes to some exotic dishes from around the world.     Places like Dragonfly, The Parrot, or La Bombonera to name a few  provide you with the festive Spanish influence dining experience you expect in Old San Juan. .     Food is of excellent quality throughout Old San Juan and there are many choices for fun and colorful experiences.      There area wide variety of antique, curio, and souvenir shops dotting Old San Juan's streets, as well as some more modern stores.     The night life is abundant and the bars and night clubs to while away you evening hours and enjoy many of the Puerto Rican rums.

     While in Puerto Rico, there are many distilleries that have tours that can be a real treat as well.     Bacardi, Don Q, or Ron de Barralito to name a few.     A week is hardly enough time to explore all of the historical, and fun thing to do in Old San Juan and Puerto Rico.     ;o)   

Sitting on the Docks with a Manatee

     Yesterday, a manatee stopped by the boat and spent a little time, just what I needed after a hectic past few days.     These huge lovable creatures are the symbol of serenity to me.       It always becomes a great day when one of these magnificent creatures is in the neighborhood.      This one had a scar on it's back looks like it got to close to a whirling prop or something.     If you move slowly, you can pet them and give them some lettuce to munch on.     The love fresh water out of a hose and will stay put for quite a while if you offer it to them.     The scar is a symbol of the peril of many of these wonderful manatee's fate in the waters around South Florida and the Keys.     These big docile mammals are ofter killed by boats striking them.     They are finally emerging from the endangered species list and becoming more plentiful these days here in the Keys.

     One of the really great things is when you get to see a mother and her calf as they swim and graze on the sea grasses here in the smaller lagoons.        This always make me smile because it means that there is another on added to the count and I'll probably get to see them again before long.      I'm just sitting in front of the computer today with a big smile on my face thinking about how these simple creatures can make me so at ease and happy when they are around.       This is why conservation and the caring about your surroundings is so important.     Throwing trash and other junk in the waters is one of the biggest problem to many species and a simple thing if we take a few extra minutes to dispose of it properly.

     Enough of the soap box routine and back to the enjoyment of the evening.     I think today calls for a nice snifter of rum and enjoy this moment.     ;o)   

Prichard's American Rums







Pot Stills

      Prichard's Distillery of Kelso, Tennessee is a true American rum producer.      In addition they produce some of the finest award winning  bourbon anywhere, "Benjamin Prichard's Double Barrel Bourbon".     This distillery's linage can be traced back five generations when "Grand Daddy" Benjamin Prichard of Davidson County, Tennessee was making a sugar and white corn spirit.    The still, tubs and the utensils were passed on to his son Enoch in his will of 1822.     This is the documentation of the last known "legal" distiller in the Prichard family.     The Prichard's Distillery today is a collaboration of many people that wanted to become a part of the first legal still in Tennessee in nearly 50 years.      Operations began in 2000, when the company finally received sufficient capitalization.     

     The art of making small batch rums is one that is not easy to learn.     Phil Prichard's passion for making spirits show through in the fine product that the distillery produces.     He has chosen the finest of ingredients including molasses from Louisiana and  his own private stock yeast and the pure Tennessee spring water.     When fermentation is complete it is distilled in a copper pot still and aged, and bottled all at the Kelso, Tennessee operation.       Even with the availability of bourbon barrels in the Tennessee area, Phil chooses to use new 15 gallon barrels for his rum.     This gives the rum a maximum favor and it is what gives the rum it's very unique flavor.

     This true American rum is in name only, because once you have tasted this fine rum you will have to believe that it was born in the Caribbean and not int he hills of Tennessee.       Phil has recreated the almost lost traditions of a Tennessee spirits producers from the earlier generations.     The attention to detail and the rigid standards that are adhered to in the production and aging of the rum is apparent in the wonderful flavors.      We have had this "Prichard's Fine Rum" along with two if the sister rums, "Prichard's Key Lime Rum" and Prichard's Peach Mango Rum" at the Rum Bar here in Key West for about a year now and it truly exhibits the superior skills of Phil Prichard and his people at the Prichard's Distillery.    ;o)

The Rumstyler's Day Off

     Though it is only a day off in name only it has me in a really relaxed state of mind.      I'm working on a couple of projects here in my office, when the outside keeps tugging on  me to go visit.     So I give in and wander along the second floor decks that surround the building and I'm drawn to stop and stare out over the water and begin to daydream a bit.     I've got to get my work done today I keep telling myself, but right now I'm feeling a little deaf to the voices call me back to work.     I guess it is a bit like taking a test in school when your mind is down at the beach and surfing is where you'd really like to be.     I think to myself, the project will still be there tomorrow, but I'm back at the bar tomorrow, then I think well I can put it off for another week, but season is already upon us and I really need to get it finished.

     As I start to mosey back to the office, my eyes are caught by the water's blue green color and begin to think of getting out on the water today as I stare at one of the neighbor's boats sitting on the hard behind the office.      This is getting harder and harder I keep telling myself, and if I don't get back in front of the computer, this day will be a total waste.     Wasted because I didn't get my project completed, and because I spent so much time procrastinating, that I didn't get to go out on the water either.     Now I'm back at the computer in my office and trying hard to get this blog completed so that I don't disappoint the readers that are in their offices after fording the cold weather and snow to get there.     I guess that I can't complain very much, and as a matter of fact I guess that I've really nothing to complain about at all.     To quote Buddy Holly "you don't always get what you want", but most of the time if you work at it hard enough you can get the important stuff.    

     I'm glad that you hung out with me today and were such a help in getting me through the morning and helping me get all of my work done.      It just about time for me to go and finish up the other little things that I've got to do and get out on the water for a couple hours before heading to the Hurricane Hole and happy hours.     ;o)

A Guide for the "Neophyte Rumstyler" to Key West

     The Neophyte Rumstyler can really get lost in Key West 250 plus bars and countless restaurants.     Upon reaching Key West you have some very hard decisions to make.     If you are driving on to the island, you need to decide whether you are turning left or right.     If you fly in, do I rent a car or take a taxi, or if you boat in, do I tie up in the mooring field and dinghy in or do I get a slip and  live the "marina life"?     All of these before I have to decide on where to eat or where to party.     This can be a pretty difficult time, but after all the tough decisions are made, it is time for the "neophyte" to meet Key West head on.     When you leave your now established "digs" the first place you just have to find is "Duval Street", just like if you go the New Orleans, you have to find Bourbon Street here it is Duval Street.     This Street has two distinct ends, the south end, known as the "quiet end", and the north end where all the raucous action takes place.     If you are into the latter, you go to the 100 to 600 blocks and Duval Street is alive with music, booze and food.



The Bull, Whistle Bar, and Garden of Eden

      Sloppy Joe's, Hog's Breath, Captain Tony's, Rick's, Irish Kevin's, Margaritaville, Cowboy Bill's, etc, etc, etc, are the ones that every "neophyte has heard about and has to hit as soon as they arrive.    There are however several  other fine watering holes on and around Duval Street that you need to search out and explore before you get sucked into a "Duval Crawl Stupor" and forget who and where you are.     Just off Duval is the "Green Parrot", oldest bar in Key West, and probably the one with the best music on a regular basis.     Kelly's Caribbean, on the corner of  Whitehead and Caroline Streets offers great food and one of the best "Happy Hour's".     You've got to try the wings and the micro brew ales.    As you head back down Caroline street to Duval Street you find a curious combination of bars stacked on top of each other.    "The Bull", the street-level bar that features good local music, dancing, and cocktails.     Up you go to the next level where you have the "Whistle Bar", this level has pool tables and verandas that let you watch the craziness of Duval Street from above as you sip your cocktails.     As we climb the stairway to the top we are met head on with the "Garden of Eden",  Key West's famous "Clothing Optional" bar.     This is an open air and really wide open bar that you can dance, be body painted, and in general have  really wild and naked time.

     Old town Key West is very different, but very much the same from the Prohibition Days, or even the crazy 60's, but Key West is still the wide open fun loving town that it always was.    If you are looking for what you really don't know what your looking for, then Key West has it.    The "Sunset Festival" at Malory Square happens 365 days a year at sunset and draws huge crowds daily.    This is the launching pad for the party that runs til 4:00 am. every night.     If you had not guessed by now Key West is a town for the energetic and not for the unmotivated.     You can start your party at 6:30am and the it doesn't have to finish til 4:00 am the next day.      This is a venue for the"professional rumstyler", but the "neophytes" are always welcome.     Key West has so many things to offer that you can live here for years and still are amazed by all the things you discover that you didn't know about.     Come on down and have a little but of fun with us.     ;o)

Quick Stop at Dunn's River Falls



Bob and Marta "fording the falls"

      The trip to Jamaica would not be complete without a visit to the Dunn's River Falls just outside of Ocho Rios.     This set of falls are described by geologists as "a living phenomenon" in that they are continuously being reconstructed by the depositing of calcium carbonate and sodium by the river waters.    The falls appear to be giant stair steps that the river is cascading over to produce this world famous natural phenomenon.      Climbing these falls from the beach upward is a thrilling endeavor and a very popular tourist activity .     With the help of your guide, the falls can be negotiated without much trouble, this is an exhilarating activity though and not for the faint of heart.      This is usually done in a "human chain" as the guild leads you up the falls.     There are several lagoons along the way as you climb up nearly a 1000 feet up the falls.

     These beautiful falls are not just known to the tourists for their beauty, but to Hollywood as well.     The original 1962 James Bond  film "Dr. No" was partially filmed at this location as James Bond (Sean Connery ) and Honey Rider ( Ursula Andress) met as she walked along the Dunn's River Beach.  That is also were they were shot at as they swam in the river and went searching for the "fire-breathing" dragon.    

     The 1988 classic film "Cocktail" starring Tom Cruise and Elizabeth Shue was filmed in the Ocho Rios area around Dunn's River Falls as well.     This love story had a "steamier scene" in the falls as Tom and Elizabeth kissed.    

     It is the beauty of these falls that makes a natural backdrop for all of the movies that used the falls as a location for filming.


     Should the opportunity arise you would be remiss if you don't visit the falls.     In addition to the falls there is a "straw market" on the property that has many fine artisans and souvenir peddlers that really have some good things to sell.    There is lush vegetation and shaded areas in the park that provide a cooling effect as the people climb the falls.     The cafeteria provides a good place to sit and have a meal as you enjoy the park.     Don't forget to visit the historic town of Ocho Rios just outside of the park.     ;o)

Rumstylin with a Daiquiri

     This classic rum cocktail was named for a beach in the vicinity of Santiago, Cuba.     This is made from the simplest of ingredients and the most bastardized cocktail ever in these modern times of mixes and smoothie machines.     This is a simple drink that is made from lime juice, sugar (or cane syrup), and rum, all the ingredients are  shaken with ice and strained into a cocktail glass and garnished with a piece of lime.     It is the freshness of these cocktails attained through the use of fresh squeezed ingredients that make them the popular cocktail they really are.     This is a cocktail that made it's first appearances in the beginning of the 1900's and in 2011 it is still a very popular cocktail.   



Mary and Earnest Hemingway
and Spencer Tracy at El Floridita



El Floridita today

       It was Hemingway that really brought a lot of attention to the cocktail in his Cuban years when hanging out at the El Floridita at the corner of Calle Obispo and Monserrate Street La Habana Vieja, Cuba.   " My Mojito in La Bodeguita, my Daiquiri in El Floridita", this is the place that to this day is the mecca for the finest daiquiri's anywhere.     The El Floridita first opened in 1817 at it's present location.     In 1914 Constantino Ribalaigua Vert began working as the bartender at El Floridita and in 1918 he became the owner.     Much of the original atmosphere and contains a large collection of memorabilia from many of it's famous clientele, Earnest Hemingway, Ezra Pound, John Dos Passos, Graham Greene, to name a few.     El Floridita is famous for its fine seafood restaurant as well as it's cocktail lounge, and a must visit when in Havana.

     If you haven't had the opportunity to experience one of these really exquisite cocktails, you must find a traditional bar that has the abilities to reproduce them in the traditional manner.     This will be a cocktail to remember.     There are several of these classic daiquiri's like the Hemingway, El Floridita (Frozen), or just go with the classic Daiquiri, all or any of these will light up your taste buds and put a smile on your face.     Some of the variation include the use of any one of several liqueurs like Maraschino Liqueur, Blue Curacao. Gallliano, Falernum, or any of several others to ad a different dimension to the cocktail.     No matter how you make this wonderful cocktail, do it with fresh ingredients that do NOT include "Daiquiri Mix", keep it fresh and simple you'll really enjoy it that way.

Spending the Afternoon with My Friends

     Sometimes I just need ti sit on the forward deck of the boat and relax.     I find myself just needing some peace and quiet.     Recently I found myself in that state and laid out on the deck and just pondered nothing.     I guess it was a lucky day for me because I was joined by one of my local friends, Eddie the Egret.       Eddie is an old friend that returns to Sunset Marina every winter.     He hangs out along the docks collecting all the fish he can eat and occasionally drops by a few of the boats for a little conversation.      On this day he was some really enjoyable company.     I was just sitting alone on the deck having a taste of one of my special rums when he lit on the rail.     He and I were able to carry on a conversation for about 15 or so minutes and he went off to visit another friend.

     It is times like these when I realize how fortunate that I am to be living here in paradise and being able to enjoy so much unspoiled natural beauty.     In all of my previous lives I have been one of those "over-achievers" that could never slow down and just relax, not even for a minute.     These days when I get the urge to relax it is very easy here in the keys.    

     On another occasion another of my friends stopped by, Ozzie the Osprey, he is a year round local that has his aerie in top of the communication tower for the Sheriff's department next door.     This venerable fisherman will usually stop in to brag between fishing trips.     I really think that the kids up in the aerie are driving him nuts so he stops by to chat while I'm enjoying my rum.     Ozzie can get real talkative once in a while and he'll hang out for an hour or more.      Ozzie sometimes will try to share hes "catch of the day" with me, but sushi has never really been for me.     I usually just pass it on to a waiting  snapper or barracuda hanging out below the boat.     I really don't Ozzie really appreciates me giving his hard earned dinner away like that, especially when he had just given it to me as a special gesture.       Ozzie gets over his frustration quickly and settles back to his meal and only grumbles quietly  while he finishes.     I am always awestruck when I watch these beautiful birds hunt over the open water.     The eye of an eagle is a true to life fact.     As they sit high above the water watching, they spot a fish and away the go swooping down and literally grab the fish from the water like we grab one from the shelf of the fish market.  

     I really feel that the birds around here are just like the people, in that they need to visit with some friends and get things off their chests just like we people do.      Otherwise why would they stay and hang out with me for the periods that they do.     It is sort of like me getting off work and heading to my favorite watering hole and chatting with some old and new friends to clear my mind, or what is left of it, after a day behind the bar "working".     You know I really don't consider the time behind the bar as really working.     Do you ever wonder what really goes on in the minds of the birds when they come by to say hey at your house?     It is a curious question and has real possibilities as to who is the smarter.     They are great listeners and provide a very serene atmosphere in which to relax.    Sometime when you don't think you can stand anymore of the stress just go outside and beckon some of your friends and learn to relax and chat with them, it really works.     ;o) 

Rumstylin St.Croix

     St. Croix is a real jewel in the Virgin Islands.     Christainsted isa very beautiful city that will take you back to the days when it was the capital of the Danish West Indies.     The architecture, the beautiful harbor, and the quaintness of the city makes it a must see on your visit to St. Croix.   There are a number of historic sites that you really need to visit while in Christainsted, including Fort Christainsted, the Steeple Museum, the Restored Government House and other government buildisgs.  Just walk down the old cobblestone sidewalks and feel the old-world atmosphere of this one square mile town.     The harbour with all it's restaurants and shops is a great place to dine and shop as well.     The 27 acre historic district is maintained by the United States National Park Service, along with the restoration of these precious buildings and walkways the Danish heritage of the City is going to be here for those who come in the future.

     When we leave Christiansted, the next most important site on St. Croix for a rumstyler is the historic Cruzan Distillery located in Fredricksted.        With the remnants of the old windmill once used to crush the sugar cane along with the surrounding historic Danish architecture you have one of the more modern rum distilleries anywhere.     The distillery produces and bottles the line of Cruzan Rums and ships rum for finishing to many other companies through out the world.     From it's Fredricksted location it has a very good harbour from which it can bring in the molasses from the Dominican Republic and ship out the finished rum.

     St. Croix has some very dense Mahogany rain forests in it's central inland areas as well as some of the most beautiful beaches anywhere.     I can just picture me now lying on the hammock and sipping a Cruzan Single-Barrel and just letting the world go away.     Should you get the opportunity, St. Croix is a jewel that you really do not want to miss when in the Virgin Islands.    The resorts are luxurious, the views are spectacular, and the rum is local.     What more can you ask for??   ;o)

Cocktail Time in Panama

     Today let's look at some of the more popular cocktails that I was able to try while in Panama.     The variety is quite large, but the spirit of choice for the most part was either Seco Herrerano, Rum, or Scotch.      With Valera Hermanos being the largest producer of cane spirits in Panama most are utilizing their products.     Lord Panama is one of the most popular, which is a curious combination of anejo rum, sweetened iced tea and lime.     This is a very refreshing afternoon by the beach cocktail that is popular especially on the pacific side of  Panama.      With all of the tropical influence, I keep picturing Panama as an island rather than an isthmus.     

     Seco Herrerano is by far the most popular spirit in Panama.     The "populous" consumes the largest amount of it, in a variety of ways,     You can drink it on the the rocks with lime, with tonic and lime and one of the most popular among the people in cantinas and in the countryside is with milk.     Seco Sour is a very good drink that is a combination of Seco, sour mix and a dash of angostura bitters.    The western side of Panama seems to favor the "Chichita Panama", a combination of Pineapple juice, grapefruit juice and Seco Herrera.     I guess what makes this cane spirit work so well is the fact that it has many of the characteristics of vodka, while still being a cane spirit.      This very neutral spirit can be mixed as you would with vodka, and still be rumstylin'.     It has been my experience that the happiest drinkers are the ones consuming cane spirits and this is a happy alternative to the expensive and mundane lines of vodkas.    

     I guess that I have to say that my tasting of cocktails in Panama was one of discovery of new spirits and new ways of experiencing them.    Seco Herrerano is available here in the United States and is a real find for those that have had enough of the vodkas.     By the way you can stop by the Rum Bar in Key West and share a Seco Herrerano cocktail with me when you are there.     ;o)

The 2011 Miami Rum Renaisance Festival

     Beginning on Monday April 25, and culminating on Sunday May 1, 2011, this is the largest single rum Event in the United States.     This event brings together at one location many of the quality rum producers of the world.     This is an opportunity for you to visit Miami really become a part of the rumstylin' life.     There are booths, parties, exhibits, and seminars that deal with many aspects of the world of rum.

     If you have any interest in the world of rum and cane spirits, you just can't allow yourself to miss this annual event.     The wealth of knowledge that Robert and Robin Burr have brought together for this event is absolutely astonishing.     Brands like Abuelo, Plantation, Bacardi, Captain Morgan, Cockspur, Mount Gay, Foursquare Distillery, Don Q, Diplomatico, St Nicolas Abbey, and many many more will all be represented at the event.     There will be special run themed VIP Parties hosted by the best of the rum companies and all at Miami Beach venues.   These parties will feature the fine rums, great food, music and island culture.

     The event this year has moved to the world famous Deauville Beach Resort on Miami Beach.    This is a spacious and modern  resort ideal for such a gathering of rum experts and enthusiasts.    This magical setting amongst the golden Miami beaches, palm trees and gentle ocean breezes couldn't be more fitting for such an event of tropical rumstylin'.     This fine resort was the playground of celebrities such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and of course the John, Paul, George, and Ringo of the Beatles.     As you can see this is the place to come and romp in the shadows of one of the celebrities at one of the great venues  and enjoy the fabulous festival.

     There are going to be two days of tasting events, Saturday and Sunday, that will allow sampling of some of the finest rums from the Caribbean and elsewhere around the world.     Celebrity Seminars and lectures by a who's who of experts in various parts of the rum world.     Cocktail competitions, that have classes for local, international, Amateur and professional mixologists, all competing for awards, prizes, and bragging rights.     There are Island lifestyle booths that feature fashions, travel opportunities, and more in the Island Lifestyle showcase.    

     The grand finale of the event is the Rum XP Competition, this world famous competition will determine the best rums from around the world.    The Rum XP's a a collection of All-star mixologists, distillers,and spirit journalists that have gathered in Miami Beach just for this event.    This is going to be my first time at the event and I'd like to invite all of you to get tickets and join me for some fun in Miami for the Rum Renaissance Festival in 2011.      Hope to see all of you there.     ;o) 

The Blender Party in Kissimmee

     I'm sorry that I had to work and couldn't get up to Kissimmee on Saturday night for the annual Blender Party at the Figarts.     This is one of the rumstylin' great parties, you bring your unique blender recipe and go!     The drinks are shared by all and the winner is chosen by those still cognizant at the end of the night.   It all begins in the kitchen where all the necessities are gathered for the "blend-off" and let the party begin.    

Pina Bliss!!!

     It all got underway with some fresh pineapple Pina Coladas, made with home-made creme de coconut ( condensed milk, coconut grated in heavy syrup, and coconut milk) cane rum, and fresh pineapple, it was labeled as "Pina Bliss".     This was definitely in the running to be a winner.     This is just the beginning of the craziness, next we had " Skinny Bitch Margaritas, "tasted like toxic waste".    We then moved on to Cucumber Mojitos", by the second batch, they began to taste better, and I guess that if you kept on drinking them they would become a winner, but that didn't happen , they didn't win either.     " Jason's Own  Root Juice" was inaugurated the same night and was drunk to rave reviews.   Way to go Jason!!!    Several of the invitees were caught in other unfortunate commitments that didn't allow their appearance at the event, but that usually means that they were just "sceered".    

     The party moved on through the night and into the morning and the blender really didn't stop for very long, cranking out the latest concoction for the waiting palates of the judges.    By the way if you drew a late turn at the blender, your drink would probably have a better chance of winning because the judges were getting less able to be critical as they finished tasting another entry.     When it was all said and done the "Honey-Bunny" (a secret recipe) was the winner!    Yeah!!!!!!!!!     

     There should have been trophies for all involved because there were few standing when the judging and blending was completed.     The picture of the party tells of how everything sort of got blended together and nothing was very clear.     I'd have to call this a very successful rumstylin' party in anyone's eyes.    Way to go Figarts!!!!    Don't forget to give me some notice so I can be there for the next one.     ;o)

It's like the Party Never Ended

     I'm back behind the bar again and yesterday was just like it was last weekend before I left for a week in Panama.     The place was filled with some really fun people that were enjoying stories and having some of the new cocktails that we found in Panama.     This is really fun for me and why I keep searching the bars and countryside for new cocktails that are really fun.     I kind of goes wit rum a lot.     It seems that people who drink rum are really having fun, well the rest of them it is mostly just trying to understand the craziness that us rummy's already know about.     Several of my old friends are in town this weekend, which stir memories of several other fun afternoons here at the Rum Bar.     It was like that party from several months ago never ended and it was going again, or still if you know what I mean.    

     Today I received an e-mail from another of my rumstylin' buddies that are having a "Blender Party" tonight and asked for a recipe for a "Hurricane Bob", so I'll be expecting pictures soon from that one.    It is this type of fun "Tiki" partys that make the rumstylin' life the fun world that it is.     If you have one of our favorite events writ and tell me about it .     Just click on my facebook badge and send me a Personal Message about your party and send pictures that I can put on line.     The sharing of ideas to make our rumstylin' partys more fun is what this is all about and the party is the culmination of this celebration.     

     It's just like me, when the day is done, I jump into my dinghy and cruise over to the Hurricane Hole and my rum and tonic is on the bar by the time I tie-up and climb on to the dock.     These are the good times and we all need to chill a bit  to enjoy them and life can be a whole lot better for you and those around you.     That is enough of my Sunday morning preaching, so I'll just head down to the Rum Bar and have a little fun.    ;o)