| Hop on board the Yankee Freedom II for a leisurely ride to the Dry Tortugas, just 70 miles west of Key West, for once-in-a-lifetime swimming, snorkeling, camping and exploring. Spend the day or spend a night or two (or three) and witness the living history, thriving underwater world and exotic tropical birds that make this stretch of seven tiny islands world famous. When you arrive back on Key West…get set; because the next phase of your adventure is about to begin…Welcome to Key West.  Key West, Florida is the southern most island in the Florida Keys and is considered the jewel in the chain of islands that run south west from the city of Miami, FL. The Florida Keys span some 110 miles and are connected by bridges and causeways. Considered the only “Caribbean” island in the continental United States, Key West is filled with quaint shops, restaurants & bars all surrounded by crystal blue waters. Key West’s tropical setting and relaxed atmosphere combine to create an exotic place, yet its language and culture are comfortably American.
Visually Key West is quaint and lush. It’s casual, yet surprisingly sophisticated. It’s quirky, unique, interesting, friendly and fun. It’s a walking town, made for exploring. It’s easy to get to know, and easy to feel at home. More than a century ago people from all corners of the globe traveled in search of fortune, fame and freedom. What they found was all that and so much more. Pirates battled Indians and natives gained riches by salvaging ship wreckage, selling hand-rolled cigars and sea-sponges. The Southernmost tip of the United States, Key West is simply put, paradise at the end of the earth. Once home to famed artists, writers and politicians, today Key West boasts much the same, some famous for their talents and others not-so-famous but equally as gifted. Everyday, a diverse assortment of folks come to live, work and visit…and to celebrate life and their freedom to live it however they please. From the upscale to the eccentric, and everything in between, everyone fits in in Key West. For a nostalgic view of days gone by, stroll through Old Town where the architecture dates back centuries and enchanting Victorian homes have been artfully and lovingly restored. Here, colorful pasts come alive as you ride the Conch Tour Train, visit Key West’ first attraction the Key West Aquarium the John Audubon house and other local treasures. Be sure to count the toes on any Hemingway cats you encounter, you might be in for a surprise. Take a walk along the many quaint streets and see the original Key West tin-roofs. You'll be enthralled by the magnificent homes and enjoy a fantastic journey back to another time. Key West houses are surrounded by lush colorful foliage. Their yards often conceal intricate tropical gardens.  Key West’s character, speech, food and color come from the deeply rooted local Conchs (pronounced konk), for whom it has been home for generations. Many trace their heritage to Cuba, just 90 miles away, through forefathers who arrived in the late 1800s to work in the cigar industry; others to the Bahamas, where families, both black and white, crisscrossed the Gulf Stream to trade and work in the wrecking industry.
Hit Duval Street to eat, party and see the sights. Indulge in a delectable array of international cuisine. Succulent seafood, luscious steaks, Italian fare, Cuban food, burgers, sandwiches and every other palatable pleaser imaginable is available in casual cafes, world-famous bars and fine dining establishments along the route. The heartbeat of Key West, clubs and bars on Duval rock into the early morning hours while museums, galleries, an opera house and offbeat shops offer visitors an uncommon experience. Get to Mallory Square in time to witness the sun as it makes its dramatic departure into the horizon. Each evening locals and tourists gather together to participate in this incredible sunset celebration; street performers, artists, musicians and tons of food and drink add to the revelry, it’s a one-of-a-kind moment you’re likely never to forget. Sun worshipers, thrill seekers and those in search of the ultimate good time can find what they’re looking for in the Conch Republic. Exhilarating watersports, excellent fishing, moonlit evenings and astoundingly ideal weather are all a part of Key West’s alluring charm. People-watch, play, lose your inhibitions and while you’re at it; gain a new perspective. |
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