Been wanting to upgrade my kegarator at Pete’s Place to a 2 Tap beer system.

Been looking all around and I think I finally found what I was looking for yesterday on Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro Brazil.

I just have to convince my wife, also not sure if I would have problems with Immigration.

Blowing Rocks Preserve, Florida  is a unique habitat preserve that is owned by the Nature Conservancy. It is located along Hobe Sound on Jupiter Island in Martin County, Florida. Visitors can see what natural Florida looks like. The combination of ocean waves and natural limestone outcroppings results in magnificent sea spray that shoots up into the air at regular intervals. The preserve is easily reached via the I-95 Florida corridor or A1A/US 1. The Preserve is located about 100 miles from Miami and about 235 from Jacksonville. Hobe Sound is one of a long chain of barrier islands along the so-called Treasure Coast of Florida. There are state parks with beaches on some of these islands as well as resorts and individual hotels.

To the north, the closest beach is Vero Beach. Its public beaches include South Beach and Humiston Park. Between Jupiter Island and Vero Beach, there are beach communities including Hutchinson Island South, Ocean Beach, North Beach, Pepper Park and Queens Cove. Treasure Coast beaches are warm and sunny most of the year, making them perfect for visitors who want to escape a cold winter. These Atlantic beaches are more isolated from big crowds and commercialism, even if they are part of a resort area. There are many natural beaches and nature parks to attract those who enjoy bird-watching or hiking. Sea-shell hunting is also more rewarding. The inland waterway offers more opportunities for water sports, skiing, boating, and fishing. From Vero Beach, visitors are within an hour of the Cape Canaveral Space Center.

To the south, the best known beaches are within the boundaries of the West Palm Beach area. Before reaching West Palm Beach, there are beaches near Tequestra and Jupiter, Florida. There is also the Sea Colony community with its resorts. Further south, Juno Beach offers its own beach accommodations and beach access. West Palm Beach includes the beach towns of Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Riviera Beach, Royal Palm Beach, North Palm Beach and Palm Beach. These beaches offers many hotels and resorts that are part of a bustling metropolitan area with attractions, shopping and dining. There are many upscale boutiques, trendy clubs and a more exclusive atmosphere. Spas and salons are plentiful. Palm Beach International Airport brings in about 5.5 million passengers to the area yearly.

Hobe Sound, Florida, has a most unusual beach named Blowing Rocks Preserve, which is a small 73 acre area with rocks instead of the usual Florida sand. When the Atlantic Ocean wind drives the water through the holes in the limestone, the spray sometimes flies as high as 50 feet. This is a beachcombers dream because there are thousands of gorgeous seashells that can be gathered to take home and treasure. There is a quarter mile that is not rocky, and here approximately 500 turtle nests are dug every year by leatherback, green and loggerhead turtles.

Residents from nearby Jupiter Island gave this parcel to the Nature Conservancy back in 1969, and since then volunteers have restored 42 acres by weeding out invasive trees and planting sabal palms, palmettos, mangroves and other native ones instead. The preserve’s nursery’s seeds were responsible for many of these trees.

The Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge is halfway between Port St. Lucie and West Palm Beach on Florida’s Treasure Coast . It is situated on a barrier island down the dead-end North Beach Road, so it is a surprise when you find over five miles of unspoiled shore lined with seashells and vegetation, a wooden observation platform on top of a dune, and a beach filled with turtle nests. If you go by bicycle, entrance is free; there is a charge of $5.00 per person if you are in a vehicle. You can walk to St. Lucie River Inlet.

The Hobe Sound Nature Center is located at the National Wildlife Refuge right on the Intercoastal. It is a non-profit private organization that cooperates with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and is dedicated to the education and awareness of the environment. There are 43 steps down to its lovely beach. There are trails to walk on and warm waters for the kids to play in while the parents can sit on the beach, enjoy the sun and watch the boats go by. A popular annual event is the “sea turtle walk” from the end of May to mid-July.

The Coral Cove Park is a must for surfers and for those who like to view spectacular rock formations. You must watch out for sharks, however, because there are many in the nearby Jupiter Inlet.

The official name of the Barcelona Cathedral is the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. This Gothic style house of worship is the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona, Spain. Construction began during the 13th century and was completed in the 15th century. The building replaced another basilica that was destroyed during a Moorish Invasion. Architects adorned the original Catalan exterior with a neo-Gothic façade in the 19th century and a church spire in 1913. The roof has gargoyles in the shapes of indigenous animals and mythical creatures.

Within the edifice is the crypt of the Visigoth chapel that previously occupied the site. A raised altar provides an unobstructed view of the ancient tomb. One of the largest religious buildings in Barcelona, the church has a small museum and central nave with more than 20 side chapels. Each chapel is dedicated to a different saint or significant event in the history of the Catholic Church. One of the most famous chapels is the Capella del Sant Crist de Lepant, which has a statue of the crucifixion that was onboard a ship at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. According to oral tradition, the figure on the cross moved during the battle to avoid being struck by a cannonball. The crypt contains an ornate sarcophagus with the remains of Eulalia, one of the city’s patron saints. The Romans martyred the 13-year-old girl when she refused to renounce her beliefs. Choir stalls are adorned with the coats-of-arms of knights associated with the Order of the Golden Fleece.

A 14th century cloister is located adjacent to the cathedral. In addition to a lovely garden, it contains an equestrian statue of Saint George who is regarded as the city’s other patron saint. The garden pond is known as the Well of the Geese for the flock of birds that the church keeps in the courtyard. The gaggle consists of 13 white geese, which represents Eulalia’s age upon her death in 303 AD. During the feast of Corpus Christi, the church is the site of the tradition of the dancing egg. A clergy member removes the contents of an egg, replaces it with wax and decorates the shell. The egg is placed in the water jet of the cloister fountain, and it appears to dance in the stream of water.

An elevator located inside the cathedral takes visitors to the roof where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Guest Post By: Maria Papadopoulou

One of the most beautiful islands in Cyclades located between Serifos and Milos, about 130 km from Athens’ Port, Piraeus, is Sifnos, Greece. Sifnosis considered to be the island of God Apollo, as an ancient temple of Apollo is in the church of Virgin Mary Ouranofora. The main town of Sifnos, Apollonia, is also named after Apollo.

I visited Sifnos with friends last summer, for the first time. We took the ferry which run on the Piraeus-Kythnos-Serifos-Sifnos-Milos-Kimolos line and we arrived at Sifnos in about 4 hours. From the moment we landed on the island, we knew we had fallen in love with it.

White, cube-shaped houses, paved alleys with limy hinges, courts with traditional white stone benches , churches with white or blue domes and impressive bell towers,  valleys with many olive trees and clean, crystal clear beaches compose the portrait of Sifnos.  Such a breathtaking beauty can impress practically everyone; we were watching  tourists taking countless photographs of the island.

There are so many things to see in Sifnos, that is why I recommend you stay for at least one week to be able to enjoy every little detail.

The Church of the Seven Martyrs is built on a rock, hanging over the sea, offering a spectacular, breathtaking view, especially during sunset and sunrise.

Located 5 km east of Apollonia, on the top of a cliff,  there is Kastro Village, offering a panoramic view of the sea. Kastro is built in the ruins of the ancient capital of Sifnos and is basically the only village in the island of Sifnoswith medieval character.

While in the village, tourists can view old mansions, 16th and 17^th century churches, segments of the Venetian fortress, as well as a small archaeological museum.

Plati Gialos Beach is probably the most famous beach in Sifnos, as it offers plenty of water sports and has crystal clear blue waters.  As this beach is crowded easily, it is important to arrive there early in the morning to have a seat.

Vathi Beach is another popular beach in Sifnos. Surrounded by tall rocks, this sandy beach with the amazing azure waters is a perfect destination for tourists who want to spend a more quiet time.

Established in 1650 and located on the top of a rocky peninsula is the beautiful Monastery of Chrissopigi. As it is considered to be the protector of the island, it is very special for the inhabitants of the island.

Sifnos is an island that all people should visit at least once in their lives.

Looking for a day trip while visiting Barcelona, Spain? La Sagrada Familia, unfinished yet after 100 years of construction attracts almost 3 million visitors a year. Close to many Barcelona Apartments and hotels, La Sagrada Familia makes for a great afternoon or just a stroll by to admire the architecture.

Avalon State Park in Florida is a wonderful destination for those wanting to enjoy an undeveloped beach, an increasingly rare find in Florida. Avalon State Park is located on Florida’s Treasure Coast on North Hutchinson Island, just 4 miles north of Fort Pierce Inlet State Park  and the Fort Pierce downtown area. Visitors will discover over a mile of sandy beach along crystal clear water offering great activities, relaxation, and a glimpse of native wildlife.

There are several ways to enjoy this area. Avalon State Park’s beach is ideal for sunbathing under the Florida sun. Swimmers will love the firm sandy floor and beautiful surroundings, while snorkeling is an extra special treat. The water is as clear as in the Bahamas, and it is home to a wonderful tropical world of sea life. Kayaking and canoeing is a very popular activity, as one can start off from the beach. Simply carry your craft out 30 to 40 feet, and enjoy a relaxing cruise atop the water.

All visitors enjoying water activities are asked to be careful around steel and concrete obstacles found under water. Left by the United States Navy’s training during World War II; it is an example of the beaches rich history.

Avalon State Park is one of Florida’s best places for fishing from the shore. Fish can actually be seen migrating past during certain seasons of the year. Catch one of the several native species such as Snook, Bluefish, Red or Black Drums, Permit, Pompano, or Whiting.

Many people come to experience the native Florida wildlife found in Avalon State Park. This area is the ideal habitat for several species. Sea turtles are the most popular animal found along the water’s edge. They can be found nesting along the beaches during the spring, including the endangered loggerhead, leatherback, and Atlantic Green. Although they are interesting and fun to see, do not disturb them. That way they will survive for future generations to observe.

One of the best things about this beach is all the features to make your visit convenient from start to finish. Located near the parking lot are four pavilions for picnicking. Along with the sheltered tables, grills are also provided. After a day of exploring the entire beach, there are two showers found near the restrooms where one can clean up before heading home. Facilities are all ADA accessible. A beach wheelchair is available for use at no charge.

Although the state of Veracruz in Mexico has one of the country’s leading economies, its economy isn’t as dependent on tourism as those of some of the other states in Mexico. Petroleum and agriculture are the two biggest industries in Veracruz. This is good news to travelers who prefer to avoid areas in which mass tourism prevails. Visitors to Veracruz find it easy to experience the authentic culture of the region without feeling crowded by large numbers of other tourists.

Veracruz is located in the eastern part of Mexico and has a long coastline featuring many miles of sand dunes. The waters of the Gulf of Mexico provide superb sports-fishing opportunities and there are many fishing guide services to accommodate the fishing enthusiast. Those who prefer snow-topped mountains will find plenty of them in Veracruz also.

The city of Veracruz is the oldest city in Mexico. Founded in 1519 by Hernán Cortés, it’s now a vibrant, modern port city. It’s the largest city in the state of Veracruz and offers many activities. From May to August, scuba diving is a popular pastime. The Plaza de las Armas in the center of the city of Veracruz is always filled with musicians, dancers, and other attractions such as vendors selling craft items and food. For those interested in marine life, the Veracruz Aquarium is the largest aquarium in Latin America.

Xalapa is the state capital of Veracruz and is noted for its many museums. More than 400 exhibitions are on display at the Museum of Science and Technology in Xalapa. An extensive collection of Mesoamerican artifacts can be found in the Museum of Anthropology. Xalapa Is also located in a mountainous region of Veracruz, making it a good choice for those wishing to escape the heat.

Veracruz has much to offer the person who desires to experience authentic cultures. Those who have an interest in handmade arts-and-crafts will appreciate the quality of the furniture made in the town of Castillo de Teayo, the musical instruments created in the town of Los Tuxtlas, and the beautifully embroidered women’s blouses created in the communities of Tlalixcoyan and El Higo. There are many more rural communities that specialize in different types of handicrafts. Those with an interest in indigenous arts-and-crafts will find much to explore in Veracruz.

Veracruz is the perfect travel destination for those who want to avoid tourist-filled commercialized areas and to experience authentic, vibrant culture.