Key
West is like the last stop on the subway -- the farthest you
can go south in the continental United States. It’s
closer to Cuba than it is to Miami. Some societal observers
think that its geographical nature as the last place in the
US without actually leaving the country has helped foster
a sort of split personality.
Lush with tropical foliage such as blazing
orange royal poincianas, the city used to be known for its
laidback atmosphere. It was generally regarded as a small,
seedy town. But in recent years, it has acquired a more frenetic
pace. Think of a tiny New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Every
day’s a party.
Quick References
Key West Hotels Online hotel reservations and reviews
Shopping Find out where to go shopping
Restaurants Where to go for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or drinks
Attractions Info about the top tourist attractions
Key West Tours Tours for individuals and groups
Developers and locals or conchs
(pronounced conks) have long fought the battle of the next
Starbucks. Low-key locals complain that glitz has ruined the
place. Tourists and thousands of cruise ship passengers have
certainly commercialized Key West. And same-sex couples walking
hand-in-hand have become common. Whatever your persuasion,
if you want to party, you will have a good time here. There’s
all the ingredients: good restaurants, live music and a good-time
attitude. At night, there’s always a carnival atmosphere
on Mallory square over a simple event: the sunset. Performers
swallow swords and eat fire.
But if you avoid the noise of Duval, the Bourbon Street of
South Florida, you can still find quiet beaches and living
coral reefs off the beaten track. Take a walk or ride your
bicycle on the side streets where you’ll find small
art galleries, secret gardens and breathtaking bougainvillea
plants.
When visiting, you should always keep this in mind: in Key
West, you can always march to the beat of your own drum.
