I’ve been extremely excited that these past several days have been sunny and warm outside! After over a week of constant rain and grossness (yuck!), I’m ecstatic to finally catch some rays. On that note, today I decided to go to the Florida Keys, a vacation I took two summers ago.
Although the Keys are a couple of hours away from Miami, the archipelago of a whopping 4,500 islands is most definitely worth the trip. U.S. Route 1 goes all the way down to Key West from the east coast of Maine, and the part of the highway going across the keys is called the “Overseas Highway.” There are five main keys: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and Key West. All five of these keys have something unique to bring to the table. Key Largo is the best key to go diving and snorkeling, while Islamorada is known for sport fishing. Marathon is the heart of the keys and offers the best vacation resorts. Big Pine Key is best for maximum relaxation and is awesome for boating and bird watching. Last but certainly not least, Key West is the most famously known key as the “Last Resort.”
Key West is certainly a unique place that is known for its heavenly sightseeing. There you will find the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in the heart of Old Key West. Hemingway lived and wrote for over ten years in this house before his death. The house is currently home to about 60 polydactyl cats (meaning that they have extra toes) and these cats are taken care of by the museum employees. Just across town, you can also check out Kermit's Key West Lime Shoppe where they make the original Key Lime Pie! I happened to buy this pie (it's my absolute favorite dessert) and it was the most amazing and delicious experience.
Key West is also the southernmost point of continental United States and is 90 miles away from Cuba. While it was common for Cubans to escape the country after its revolution to Key West, this practice has died down with inspections of illegal immigrants and naval patrol. You can also check out Duval Street which is full of history of old settlements and museums.
The most captivating part of the Florida Keys is the tropical beaches. The clear turquoise waters will mesmerize you and bring you some amazing relaxation and enjoyment. Also while you are there, you should most certainly try snorkeling or scuba diving. While I was there, I went snorkeling in Marathon then had a nice Florida Keys barbecue dinner at a restaurant nearby called Porky’s Bayside. This was honestly one of the most interesting vacations I have ever been on and would love to go back someday!
