Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest
Key West is the southernmost point of the contiguous United States. The island is actually closer to Cuban than it is to the United States mainland, and some would say it retains a similar rebellious attitude. Founded by pirates, Key West has always clung to a unique historyone which has embraced people of all elks, and one that attempted succession from its native state, Florida. Key West is known for its active nightlife, its variety of water sports, its colorful inhabitants, and its intriguing history. It is one of the most popular places in America to vacation; it is both a family destination and a college spring break destination. This diverse island has something for everyone.
When you think of Key West you cannot help but think of the many bars and restaurants that cover the streets. Duval Street, the main drag might as well be one long bar. Some of the popular destinations on this street are Sloppy Joes, Dirty Harrys, Irish Kevins, and Fat Tuesday. In these bars you will not only find your favorite draft beer, but a healthy serving of native Key West food. The food in Key West is legendary for being good. The restaurants serve a variety of items, including Conch, the most popular sea creature on this island island. Conch can be served fried, baked, sauted, or grilled.
The Conch is not only a tasty appetizer, but it is the emblem of Key West. In 1973, when Key West became indignant about being part of Florida the island decided to succeed from the Union. Claiming themselves the Conch Republic, the citizens had the plan to seize the bridge leading into the island and to break away from the United States. Although the plan never actually materialized, some residents still cling to the Conch as the icon of their island.
Key West is home to the Hemingway House, an overgrown mansion in the center of island. When he wasnt in Sloppy Joes bar, Ernest Hemingway used to spend hours writing and tending to his fifty cats in this great estate. While the writing and the man behind the scrolls are long gone, the cats remain in the house. A half-mile away at Whitehead and South Street, a colorful buoy marks the Southernmost Point in the USA. From this point you can see Cuba, only ninety miles away.
At the other end of Duval Street, beyond the bars and restaurants, is Mallory Square. Here you will experience the Sunset Festival. Late in the afternoon vendors of crafts and tacky souvenirs gather in the square to sell their goods to tourists. Street acts, including stilt walkers, and animal tamers perform their tricks with the sun setting gorgeously in the background.
Some of the other sites not to miss is the Truman Complex, where Harry S. Truman spent much of his post President life, Mel Fishers Treasure Exhibit, where you can see millions of dollars worth of jewels, silver, and gold recovered from a pair of 17th-century Spanish shipwrecks, and the Key West aquarium, where there are animals ranging from minnows to sharks.
Getting to Key West can be done by boat, air, or by car. There are plenty of marinas that offer berths to transient boats, and the Key West airport runs flights often. Many visitors prefer taking the three-hour drive from Miami over the many bridges that extend to meet Key West. Once in the unique island you will find a plethora of hotels, motels, and guesthouses. It is best to book early, especially if you go during peak times such as the summer or school vacations. Some of the most popular, and expensive hotels are those in the center of island, however, you can find cheaper motels along the outskirts and on the highway. To best experience the vibe of Key West you may want to consider looking into a Bed and Breakfast or one of the many unique guesthouse located in the thick of the island.
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