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Ian Hollander asked:


Because Key West is such a beautiful and laid back island there are many celebrities past and present who have visited or made our island paradise their home.

Key West’s most famous celebrity would be Ernest Hemingway who lived on the island from 1928 to 1939. “For Whom the Bell Tolls” is his most popular work penned while living in his famous compound off of Duval Street. He also spent his free time fishing in the Dry Tortugas waters and drinking at the famous Sloppy Joe’s bar bar where he is still revered and remembered both for his wild streak and generous spirit.

Tennessee Williams, playwright of both well known works, “A Streetcar Named Desire” and “Cat On a Hot Tin Roof” was often seen at the Heritage House along with poet Robert Frost. Actually, The Heritage House is where Robert Frost wrote his famous “The Gift Outright” which is most known for being read at JFK’s inauguration ceremony. The Robert Frost Poetry Festival is now held here yearly.

President Harry S. Truman spent his winters in Key West during his presidency. In fact the winter home which was originally the first officer’s quarters on the naval station (and was once occupied by Thomas Edison during WW1 while serving in the navy) is now known as the Harry S. Truman Little White House because of the time he spent in the home during 11 visits to Key West. Also to pay respect to the President, Division Street was renamed Truman Avenue in 1948 after his reelection. Upon leaving office Truman made several return trips back to the home that was unofficially dubbed the ” Southernmost White House.”

Several other very respectable Presidents and politicians have stayed in the Truman “Little White House”:

In 1948 General General Dwight D. Eisenhower held meetings here that resulted in creating the Department of Defense. He returned almost 10 years later as President to recuperate from a heart attack.

President John Kennedy held a one day summit here in 1961 with British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan.

President Jimmy Carter held a family reunion in the home in 1996.

In 2001 Secretary of State Colin Powell opened a week of OSCE peace talks at the site.

On February 12, 1974 the home was added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. In 1991, the house became a state historic site & museum.

Jimmy Buffet, the laid back beach bum musician established this attitude after being introduced to Key West where he moved during the early 70′s. In 1985, the singer/songwriter/film producer/author also opened the first of his popular Margaritaville restaurants on Duval Street where it remains a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Other notable * famous * Key West celebrity locations include:

Heritage House Museum and Robert Frost Cottage 410 Caroline Street.

Harry S. Truman Little White House 111 Front Street

Margaritaville Cafe 500 Duval Street



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Mark Scriven asked:


The USA is one of the best destinations in the world for a driving or road touring holiday. The sheer diversity and stunning beauty of the country combined with high quality roads, which are often uncrowded away from major urban areas, produces a long list of classic drives. This classic drive takes place in the far south eastern corner of the country.

On the scenic 113-mile Overseas Highway, the southernmost leg of U.S. Highway 1, you cross 42 bridges on your journey from Miami to the southernmost point in Key West. With the Gulf of Mexico to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, much of the highway is built on the route of a former railway line started early in the twentieth century. An engineering marvel, the line was partially destroyed in the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935, and afterward converted to a roadway. It was rebuilt in the 1980s, including the well-known Seven Mile Bridge at Marathon.

The journey, mostly over water, can take less than four hours, however, if you take time to enjoy the ocean and mangrove vistas along the roadway, plus the glorious sunrises and sunsets, there is potential for the journey to take longer. And holiday traffic congestion can add to the drive time.

South of Miami, the highway skirts the southern edge of the Everglades and hops across the chain of isles, hummocks and reefs running off the tip of Florida. Passing through the tropical vegetation of Key Largo, with its fishing fleets and flashy tourist traps, you reach John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, an underwater state park, where you can take glass-bottomed boats to snorkel the nearby coral reefs.

The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, a multi-use bicycle and pedestrian facility running along old Flagler railroad bridges, allows you to cross between bayside and oceanside. The Trail has interpretive signage, maps, and benches. The Grassy Key Bikeway, part of the trail, offers areas for hiking, running, bicycling, in-line skating, sightseeing, fishing and kayaking.

Past Plantation Key, at Windley Key, the Theater of the Sea has performing sea lions, sharks, and dolphins. After Islamorada in the Middle Keys, the uninhabited 280-acre Lignumvitae Key State Botanical Site, with its rare virgin tropical hardwood forest, is accessible via boat tours from Robbieís Marina.

You can also take a boat tour from here to the Indian Key State Historic Site, and take a walk around the remains of an old village established to salvage ships that had run aground on the reefs. Past the heavily developed commercial center of the Middle Keys, you island hop to Marathon, then cross the spectacular Seven Mile Bridge, one of the world’s longest, with its sweeping views of the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. Across the bridge, Bahia Honda State Park has white-sand beaches.

The road travels southwest, past isolated and less-populated keys, over Big Pine Key, with its large slash pines and endangered Key deer, towards Key West. This southernmost of US cities, with its Caribbean atmosphere and distinctive ambience, is the perfect place to kick back and relax.



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Ian Hollander asked:


Ok – so you have decided to buy a piece of “Paradise” but aren’t sure where on the Island to call home?Well – I’ve got three words for you – Location, Location, Location!

Everyone knows the old Real Estate Axiom….

And the beautiful part of buying in Key West is regardless of where you buy – you are in a great spot!

For all intents and Purposes – Key West real estate can be broken down into three *distinct* areas:

1. Old Town

2. New Town

3. Casa Marina

Now you have to remember that the entire island is only 4 miles long and 2 miles wide – so really – there isn’t a big difference geographically between the three…;-)

But – there is a different feel and character to each area – and it is definitely worth exploring each before buying your piece of Key West real estate.

My favorite part of the island is Old Town for many different reasons, both pratical as well as simply personal preference. Lots of my friends prefer the peace and quiet of New Town, or the more water friendly and exclusivity of Casa Marina. And while getting around the island is easy no matter where you live, I just love the feeling of being in the middle of all the action while living in the heart of Old Town.

Key West has much more of an “East-West” layout rather than a “North – South” orientation – with White Street serving as an unofficial dividing line between what is considered Old Town to the West – and New Town to the East.

(The only way in from the Mainland is down U.S. Route 1 – which enters the Island on her Northeast Corner)

“Old Town” as the Historic District is Internationally known – is not only Key West’s major tourist destination – it is also home to many historically registered structures full of charm, grace and an incredible sense of history and purpose. You will find shotgun style homes – classic Bungalows, Mini – Mansions and all kinds of interesting structures bearing the beauty of Old Florida, and more specifically the unique and eclectic style of many of the original settlers here many years ago.

Old Town Key West Homes have zoning and modification restrictions in keeping the character and charm of the neighborhood and the streets – so obviously if looking to buy in Old Town, it would be best to “inquire” before planning any major renovations to your dream house…;-)

Old Town is home to Truman Annex – President Harry Truman’s “Home Away from Home” – Internationally famous Mallory Square known for it’s fantastic and Phenomenal Sunsets and equally as interesting nightly performance artists – it is home to Fort Zachary, Duval Street (the Key West version of Bourbon street in New Orleans) and too many other interesting tourist friendly and local points of interest to mention here!

The architecture in Old Town Key West date from approximately the latter part of the 19th Century to roughly 1910. Homes are distinguished through their predominately wood frame construction and are graced with beautiful porches and balconies and often are painted in ecclectic, pastel colors – highlighting the unique and unusual style of the neighborhood.

Old Town Key West is a wonderfully interesting and captivating place to call home – probably one of the most visually engaging and lively places to live anywhere in the entire United States..:-) You are living in “Paradise” – yet – still in an urban and active community of neighbors, business owners, wonderful restaurants, fantastic nightlife and the amazing scenery that only those who have been here can attest to experiencing on a daily basis.

The downside to all of this magnificence is -It is Expensive!

Generally speaking – Buying in Old Town is the most expensive area to purchase in Key West.

All of “Paradise” is pricey – but Old Town tends to be – as you would expect – the most expensive piece to purchase!

Homes generally begin in the high six figures – with many, if not most of the prime properties running over a Million Dollars – some even much more.

Good bargains can be found though – you have to look, but if you keep your eyes peeled you can always find special properties selling for far under market value. And remember – for those who really have a taste for the real “rich” rewards life has to offer will tell you – if you aren’t living in Key West,You ain’t living at all!



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Jen W. asked:


When searching for the perfect warm and sandy location to head to for your next vacation, consider Key West, Florida for your vacation needs. Key West is located at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys and offers quite a bang for its small size with its numerous beaches and abundant water activities. Whether you want to feel as if you have left the world behind or participate in all the adventure this diverse island has to offer, Key West can become your haven for a relaxing and exciting vacation.

Although the island of Key West only encompasses 4.2 square miles, visitors will certainly find plenty of space to throw down a towel for some fun in the sun. When searching for the beach that best meets your watersport needs, head over to the south side of the island to check out a few of the more popular beaches. Smathers Beach, the largest of the public beaches, is usually very busy since it provides access to the water for those who want to go jet skiing, kayaking, or wind surfing while also allowing for excitement on land with its volleyball courts.

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach is a quieter option than Smathers Beach and allows for an off the beaten path sand experience. This state park contains 67 acres of beautiful white sand and lush forests that are ripe for exploration. A favorite among the locals, Fort Zachary Taylor is a prime destination for swimming and snorkeling in the warm turquoise waters and venturing near the brim of the forests. If you decide to make your way to this beach for a glimpse of the breathtaking sunset, don’t forget your aqua shoes since there is crushed coral everywhere.

For those who head to Key West without stopping at the other islands of the Florida Keys, a journey out to the reef from Key West Harbor is an absolute must. Catch sight of the vibrant marine life and the only living coral reef in North America by journeying underneath these warm waters on a scuba diving or snorkeling excursion. If you prefer to stay dry but don’t want to miss out on this noteworthy sight, hitch a ride out to sea on one of the glass bottom boat tours.

Possibly the most popular activity with visitors to Key West, a deep sea fishing adventure is the best way to experience a surge of adrenaline and the thrill of reeling in a big one. With over 225 species of gamefish patrolling the clear waters off the Florida Keys, you are bound to come back with a lively story about the one you snagged, and hopefully not about the one that got away. There are numerous experienced guides available out of Key West to take you into the nearby Gulfstream, where you can try for marlin and sailfish, but make your reservation early to preserve your chance at a memorable angling adventure.

When you are ready to step back from the water and enjoy a low-key attraction, hop aboard the always popular Conch Tour Train for captivating tales about the history of the island. From the reign of the Indians to the golden age of settlement to the end of WWII, you will be taken back in time to learn about not only the island itself, but also the characters who played a key role in its growth, development, and place in history.

With so many activities in such a small, gorgeous area, the opportunities for entertainment may seem overwhelming at first. However, by staying on the island in one of the numerous Key West vacation rentals that are conveniently located near the shore, you can take advantage of the amazingly warm, crystal clear waters this island provides access to. Whether you want to catch some sun in the fine white sand or head further out for a snorkeling adventure, your vacation rental makes it easy to enjoy the best of Key West since everything you need for excitement is just a short walk away.



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Jessica Nielson asked:


There is always something to do in the Florida Keys, but when you take you holiday to Florida to visit the Key West, you will have an amazing time. Whether you take the kids or go by yourself, you will enjoy something the Key West. One recommendation in Key West is a stop at Hogs Breath Saloon. This is an open-air bar that has a restaurant and live entertainment. The place is huge and it is fascinating to visit. They do have a live web cam that can be viewed on the Internet. Do not let the name fool you, it is a great place and the people are very nice.

If you are looking for a adventure in swimming with the dolphins, you will enjoy Key West. There are eight different places that have services for scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming with the dolphins. Captain Sheri and Wild about Dolphins is just one place that has swim with dolphin adventures. These are wild dolphins you will be swimming with ad it is common for them to come up and give you a kiss. The dolphins are friendly, but keep your guard up because when they play, they might be a little rough.

The Key West tours are something you should partake in and enjoy. They are well structured and always a great time. There is the Jet Ski and island tour, water tours with drinks and snacks, Dream Charters for those who want a little romance and seaplane tours. You might even enjoy the catamaran tours that take you to different areas. The tours are always fun and you experience so many different things on the tours that you would not otherwise. Yu can also enjoy the beautiful beaches in Key West and soak up the sun.

Plan a kayaking tour of the Dry Tortugas National Park. The kayaking experience is for everyone. You can enjoy a nice leisurely ride down the river and see the beautiful scenery from the river. The Key West area is always nice, but you do have to watch the water for any unknown lurkers. Fishing is another popular pastime in the Keys. You can fish for some marlins, swordfish or even the speckled trout. Deep-sea fishing in the Keys is a favorite for everyone. There are people that do nothing more than fish for their cheap holidays to Florida. The fishing is the best and the charters are always coming in with a boatload of fish.

Besides the attractions and things to do, you can enjoy the restaurants and the nightlife. Once you experience Hogs Breath Saloon, it might be hard to find a place that compares. This however, should not be a problem since there are so many different clubs in the Keys. The West Keys are considered the best place to party and have fun. If you need more reasons to go to Florida, just ask someone who has been there and they will tell you the same thing. It is a great place to visit.



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David Reichman asked:


Key West is the key to an ultimate romantic weekend getaway. Located at the southernmost part of Florida, it is the perfect venue for couples who want to break free from their everyday lives.

Although you can fly straight to Key West International Airport, choose Miami as a landing destination instead and begin your weekend getaway with a romantic drive along the US1 (nicknamed The Overseas Highway) over the vast waters. The drive gives you impeccable views of the ocean, and the wide variety of hotels, seafood restaurants, dive shops and boats that serve as a preview of how much of an amazing trip you are about to have.

Couples often prefer a quiet getaway for a romantic weekend. Make the most of each other’s company by spending the whole day at the beach, lying on the sand or swinging on a hammock with good food and good drinks. You can also take the seventy-mile ferry or chartered plane ride to the island of Dry Tortugas for an extraordinary diving experience, or simply enjoy the cool breeze brushing up your hair on a cruise ship. Spend some quality time walking around Key West. Enjoy strolling the palm tree-infested streets holding each other’s hands and watch the very eventful sunset.

Spend your romantic weekend at the luxurious Marquesa Hotel right in the center of the historic district. Just in the same street, the Eden House offers the same historic atmosphere with a more affordable rate. One of the essentials of romantic weekend getaways is to linger over local cuisine. On Duval Street, you will find many of Key West’s top restaurants for your romantic dining. On this strip, restaurants have an area with porches where you can just watch the world go by over a sumptuous meal and a glass of wine. Being surrounded by water, these restaurants serve seafood as their specialty, served, of course, in many different ways. If you want your fish raw, the Japanese Origami is highly recommended. Other top picks include the Seven Fish and Bagatelle for those who prefer their fish cooked. Also, you should try Key West’s long time favorite, Sloppy Joe.

If you are the party type of couple, on the other hand, you can take your romantic weekend getaway to Key West during the spring break and in November where fun is spread throughout the island. During the spring break, resorts and bars throw parties and promise everyone in attendance a good time. November activities, on the other hand, include the Halloween costume parties and the Key West Power Boat Race. Water sport enthusiasts fly in to Key West every year to witness this event.

Key West is said to be the haven of writers. Authors get inspired by the beauty of the island. Since the mood for this particular weekend getaway is romantic, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and explore the very walls where Ernest Hemingway wrote his emotional novels. Those fascinated to the underwater can have a self- or guided-tour at the Key West Aquarium, which features diverse exhibits of sea life in the Florida waters. Check the Aquarium’s daily schedule for feeding if you wish to have a close encounter with the sharks.

Whether you want it quiet and private or loud and wild, Key West has something for you to break loose from the routine. It is the jaunt perfect for couples who wish to unwind and relish a romantic weekend getaway.



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Anada.Bara asked:


Planning the perfect vacation getaway can be quite tedious. It entails careful and meticulous planning so as to make it a vacation to remember for lifetime. There are many exciting sights to behold and adventures to try in and out the country. And with the unending list, you definitely be mind-boggled on where you are gonna spend your holiday vacation with the important persons in your life. Definitely, an out of the country getaway is quite expensive. And you can’t afford to bring your entire family to a foreign land. Also, going out of the country needs more time but you don’t want to compromise your work or your studies. With this, you just need to trim down your list to the many destinations in the country. There are many scenic spots that United States has to offer. But if you are into great adventure and is dying to feel the heat of the sun and fine and white sand, then Florida Keys should be your next stop.

Florida Keys is the home of many exciting scenic spots hence this is the dream destination of travel enthusiasts and those longing for an exciting getaway. The place has so many to offer and this is the reason why many fly to this place just to have a taste of an unforgettable holiday. Staying at Florida Keys allows you to greet the sun and have enjoy the cool and sparkling waters of its white sand beaches. No other state in America could top the beaches and picturesque scenery found in Florida Keys. Aside from nature and the beaches, Florida Keys is also famous for its State Park, National Park and the Nature Center. These parks are famous for children as they not only get to enjoy the different sights of the place but they also learn something new and valuable. These places feature the unique architecture, museums and other historic sites of Florida Keys. By visiting these places, you now experience what its like to be living in Florida Keys.

The aquariums found in Florida Keys allow you to observe the rich and numerous types of fishes. Mostly, many children enjoy this kind of adventure along with swimming with the dolphin and having the opportunity to feed them. The Key West is not only famous for its beautiful destinations but also to their rich history. Aside from the beautiful beaches which are suitable for swimming and other water sports, the place also takes pride of their preservation of the Civil War-era fort.

These activities can be enjoyed during the day. But if you still have the energy to party all night long, then you can grab your friends to the different bars and clubs of Florida Keys. You can have great fun as you listen to the bands that play live music while you sip some drinks with your friends and have little chitchats. On the evening, these places are popular in Florida Keys because of the fun and entertainment they offer.



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Gabriel Adams asked:


Key West is one of the most beautiful places in America, and a trip there can be a trip of a lifetime. Key West offers many different attractions that can make your stay there unforgettable.

The only bad thing that I can see about Key West is that there are so many different things to do; if you do not make a game plan before you go you might be overwhelmed. However once you get an idea of the different activities that you can do during your stay, you should have no problem having a great time. Key West offers many different attractions including fishing, snorkeling, museums, shopping, and many different tours of the area.

Fishing in Key West is out of this world. Key West boasts many professional fishing tournaments every year, because of the many different species that thrive in this area. You can catch blue marlin, sail fish, many different species of shark, as well as red snapper or grouper. If you would rather swim with the fish instead of catching them, then snorkeling might be right up your alley. The beautiful crystal blue waters of Key West allow you to swim with more than 200 species of fish.

If you would rather go back in history then the museums in Key West will take you where you want to go. From the Curry Museum, to the Ernest Hemingway museum, you will get an insight into the life that was enjoyed by the people that lived here many years ago. Of course Key West would not be a great place to visit without great shopping. This area offers many great places to shop from wineries, to island shops, to wonderful hand made furniture stores. Everyone can find what they need or want during their stay in Key West.

If you feel like you just do not know where to start then you can always take one of the many different tours that are available in Key West. The tour guides here are very friendly and very knowledgeable about the area, and are more than willing to help make your stay a memorable one.



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Jen W. asked:


For your next weeklong getaway, make your way to Key West, Florida so you can soak up the sun on some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the Keys. This island, located at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, offers more than most people imagine in the way of water and cultural activities, meaning there will never be a dull moment during your relaxing and enjoyable trip. Make Key West your home base for a Florida Keys excursion and experience the fun and excitement that simply oozes from this little piece of paradise.

Every Key West vacation is bound to be filled with a few essential ingredients such as plenty of shimmering sand, an abundance of watersports and sand activities, and numerous hours near the warm turquoise waters. Since most of the trip will certainly be spent in and around the waters surrounding this small island, then staying near the water is the best way to participate in every activity you have planned.

You can find Key West vacation rentals scattered throughout the island, but most individuals want to take advantage of the stunning water that appears almost too colorful and vibrant to be real. Ocean view vacation homes are not a rarity on Key West and are a great option for those who want to kick back and escape from the stresses of the world they left behind. Simply wander out to your balcony at your own leisure and soak in the calming sights and sounds of the waves rolling ashore as you take joy in the simple pleasures that surround you.

While having an unimpeded view of the water typically means you are fairly close to the sand and surf, staying directly on the beach makes it infinitely easier to enjoy the best of what Key West has to offer. Whether you want to spend the day out on the water on a jet ski or cozy up on a beach chair with your favorite book, everything you need to realize the perfect day is just a few steps away from your vacation home. Forget about packing every possible supply for the day before you leave and carrying it all a few blocks before hitting the sand. You can make frequent trips to your accommodations if need be since all your vacation supplies are just a few steps from your perch on the beach.

Staying near the water means you are going to come across numerous other beachcombers and tourists throughout the day as they walk past your vacation home. If you are looking for a more secluded option, then consider a rental that is ideally situated on the Key West Golf Course. The warm green hues surround you and invite you to relax on the comfortable back deck so you can listen to the gentle song of the birds flying around this tropical oasis. Leave the noise of the beach behind and retreat to this cozy home for an evening of peaceful serenity.

If you prefer the middle between these two extremes, then a private home that is located only one block from the beach can most likely meet your needs. While the ocean is only a short walk away, you can stroll out to the backyard for a private water experience as you dive into a large swimming pool complete with a trickling waterfall. Around the pool is a garden oasis complete with lush foliage, bright red bougainvillea vines, and towering palm trees that add to the tropical feel of the island.

Whether you are searching for a beachfront home, a secluded condo, or a tropical villa, there is an ideally located Key West vacation rental that has all the amenities you need for a memorable trip. Begin your search for a vacation home today and experience Key West in accommodations that allow you to realize the vacation of your dreams.



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Scott Thompson asked:


When people think of a vacation in Key West, Florida they rarely realize that there is so much to do other than drinking and playing on the water. In fact, Key West is an old historic town that will appeal to anyone interested in history or architecture. Of course, there are still plenty of fun things to do on the water, but in the Florida Keys many of those activities are as unique as the islands.

With history comes ghost so while visiting Key West make sure to go on a ghost tour. This author has experienced one ghost tour in Key West and it was a blast. Our guide made the tour worth every penny. The stories were not only scary, but entertaining and informative as well. Of course, there is much more to do and see in Key West from historic tours to enjoying the natural environment.

The Florida Keys are known for their beautiful location stuck between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. If you don’t spend some time enjoying the water you have missed one of the highlights of the Florida Keys. One way to enjoy the ocean is with a dolphin eco tour. Swimming with dolphins in the Florida Keys is a rare event, so make sure to book a dolphin eco tour through a good company that has been in business for several years. Avoid any company that uses artificial methods, like feeding, to draw in the dolphins. There are many eco tours you can take while in the Keys, from kayaking to bird watching.

While in the city of Key West one of the best things to see and do is to simply walk around and explore. The old conch houses and buildings in Key West have a unique architecture that is all there own. The town has a fun history and the structures are current records of times past. Many of the old buildings are now restaurants, stores, and bars. You can tour many of these old homes and businesses. Favorites are Truman’s Little White House and the Hemingway Home.

A Few Top Attractions in Key West

Hemingway House – If you are a fan of the great American author Ernest Hemingway, or you are interested in viewing a beautiful Key West home from another era, you must visit this place. The tour is worth it just to see the six toed cats. 907 Whitehead St. This tour is worth the modest admission price.

Fort Taylor – This fort was started in 1845 and was adapted over the years before eventually being abandoned. It was restored in the 1960s and is now a state park. From this park you can watch the sunset or swim from the beach. When Florida decded from the Union on January 13, 1861 Federal troops immediately occupied this fort and held Key West for the Union making it the only city in the Confederacy to be held by the Federals.

Conch Train – If you can’t make the walk around Key West, or if you just want to get off of your feet for a while, the Conch Train is the best way to see the city. The tour guides are entertaining and informative.

Audubon House – The Audubon House has 28 original works from the artist John James Audubon. View the artwork and then tour the one acre garden.

To learn more about visiting Key West, Florida go to www.key-west-usa.com. Key West is a magical place that captures the hearts of thousands of people each year. Let your soul be wild and let your imagination go free in Key West.



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