| 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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