Description
We headed down for Chris and Kelly's wedding in Key West. The laid-back
style of the Keys and island lifestyle had us disbelieving you are still
in the United States. The pace was easy going but filled with entertainment,
life and history. If you're a party person, expect a good time!
Highlights
(i.e. best things to do, memorable moments,
etc.)
The ultimate Key West experience has to do with getting in the water and
seeing some fish. We took two snorkel trips from our resort. Our first
snorkel was to the reef on the Atlantic side. We also went out on a boat
and found dolphins in their natural habitat then snorkeled near an island
at low tide.
Key Westers love their island so much they even celebrate the sunset every single night of the year. This
takes place at Mallory Square at the Sunset Celebration where you watch witness various street performers,
shop from local in the carnival atmosphere with a backdrop of the setting sun.
Trying local food is always a highlight. Definitely drink some Rum Runners (on the rocks if available),
order up some deep-fried conch fritters, and endulge in a slice of classic Key Lime Pie. The pie is yellow,
not green as served up north. You can even find Key Lime Pie on a stick which is a slice of pie dipped in
chocolate and frozen.
Quick
tips/suggestions
Do: Eat from the sea. Key West is in
between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean so you will get a variety
of fish to choose from.
Do: Be prepared to buy lots of water.
It can be very sunny and humid and you will dehydrate easily. In the stores,
small bottles of water are about $1.50 each.
Don't: Forget to read the signs. My
friend wandered up to the third floor Garden of Eden on top of the Bull
and Whistle and found all naked people because it is clothing optional!
Do: Know you options. Many different
companies offer snorkeling, diving, jet-ski rental, sunset cruises, etc.
When choosing a company you should find out the type of boat you will
be going on and how many people will be with you. Also, know that there
are cheaper options with other companies in town than what your hotel
has to offer.
Do: Look for coupon online before you
get to town. You can find discounts of several activities, sight-seeing
and offers for free drinks or desserts.
Best Way to get around
Getting There: Flying directly into
Key West is expensive so most people fly into Miami and them drive down
Highway 1 to Key West. It is a very nice drive which takes you through
all the keys in about three and a half hours.
Getting Around: You walk the southernmost
point to the northern most point of Key West up Duval street in about
forty minutes. All around the island you will find little scooters for
rent which are a great way to get around quickly. You can also rent bikes.
Parking on Duval street is limited, but you can usually find spots a block
west on Simonton St.
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