Rum mixed with a boat load of fruit juice seems to be the drink of choice at any tropical place, real or themed. But I learned a long time ago, Captain Morgan is a crappy boat driver — he tends to crash me right into the porcelain God every time.

I know Redd's Apple Ale is the sponsor of the Sun of Beach Festival, and it will quench the thirst on a hot summer day, but if you're looking to venture into something different, ask your bartender for a Drunk Monkey.

I used to bartend at an upscale billiards bar on the Mississippi gulf coast. My typical customers drank beer or whiskey, but when they would brink in wives or girlfriends, I had a special "girly" drink just for them.

The Drunk Monkey is a tasty, not-too-sweet, not-too-strong, no-rum-included tropical concoction that is great for water-side sipping.

There are several different variations, but my recipe is one ounce each of triple sec, melon liqueur and banana liqueur. Add with equal amounts of pineapple and cranberry juice with a splash of grapefruit juice. The bigger the glass, the less potent the drink.

Kristi Martin is an award-winning journalist, professional blogger and 80s music nerd. Like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter @writtennred.

 

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