Key West Homes : Dressing LineKey West Homes : Dressing Line

January 13th, 2012

Tours in Key West, Florida for Florida Vacations

Tours in Key West, Florida are a great way to keep organized during a trip in which you can easily lose yourself, and you will. After all, The Key is all about unbridled fun! Florida tours and attractions are the most convenient way to complete Florida Vacations. One must enjoy the easygoing lifestyle for which the key is famous. However, there are so many tremendous adventures to partake in during those annoying daylight hours. There is the Key West Dolphin Tour, the Key West party boat, and the Dry Tortugas, Key West day trip representing only a small portion of local activities that represent excitement and fun.

The Key West Dolphin Tour will give you the opportunity to swim with wild dolphins. You race out on a custom-built 28-foot super fast twin-engine boat to the home of the local pod of wild bottlenose dolphins. You will don the mask and snorkel to swim where they swim.

If you are lucky, they will come and join you. Swimming with the dolphins is something you will never forget. Florida tours and attractions should include dolphins and you are going to be astonished at how big a dolphin can be as you look into his or her eyes.

You might be a little bit of a party animal. Although, I cannot imagine why somebody like that would be in the keys; but if you are then there is the awesome Key West party boat experience. While on this boat you are mesmerized by the sea-life along the reef; however, you might decide you want to snorkel or ride the wave runner. A kayak might be more your speed and you can always just lounge in the sun on a raft. Is that not what Florida vacations are all about? On the six-hour party boat tour, you are going to enjoy 11 activities for one price.

What a deal!

A day trip to the Dry Tortugas National Monument is another unique choice for a day trip. The Tortugas are home to Fort Jefferson, the largest brick structure in the western hemisphere. You will race out onboard a very fast, state of the art catamaran. The tour operators feed you breakfast and lunch. They give you complimentary access to snorkeling equipment with which to explore the reef. The Dry Tortugas is home to legends of pirate treasure as part of its storied history and it is a thrill to explore. Pristine waters 70 miles west; this is an outstanding day trip.

Now you know, tours in Key West, Florida are varied and exciting. The options are more than one can enjoy within one weeks time. Once you are there, you may decide to stay for two weeks anyway! That will give you plenty of time to partake on a Key West party boat, dolphin tour and Dry Tortugas, Key day trip. Then you can say you did it all! So, remember that Florida tours and attractions are the best way to complete Florida Vacations. Enjoy the Key Life!

Ron is webmaster of Book Travel, Flights, Hotels, Top City Tours, and vacation homes at ticketstoairlines.com.
A new and growing travel shopping experience with comprehensive vacation options. Hotels, tours and vacation homes listed with logical and simple navigation.
Fast search pages to book flights, hotels and rent cars.
Much, much more so please, visit us for your travel needs!

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December 28th, 2011

Key West, Florida: Bed and Breakfast Inns That Reinvigorate

Is your time being spent just working and no playing? Unfortunately, the turbulence and pressures of everyday life can take a toll. Dealing with difficult or complex tasks, or trying to master business matters, can generate stress. Stress tends to divert our attention from important quality of life choices like: spending time with family, friends; and enjoying health and exercise.

If you feel that a brief getaway may reinvigorate your mind and body, you are probably right. Taking a break is a very healthy coping strategy. Select a destination that provides plenty of opportunities for exercise, attractions, art viewing, and unique culinary choices. It’s a good prescription for optimal wellness. There are dozens of delectable destinations that provide visitors with enormous amounts of flexibility.

Without a doubt, Key West, Florida is a welcome and very engaging town.

It is a must visit place for anyone that wishes to recharge their batteries. It is a three hour drive from Miami. Along the drive, travelers cross over 60 bridges, one of which is seven miles long. Key West succeeds in waking us up and reminds us just how important relaxation is. It is a destination for those who have fallen into stressful states because of attitudes or behavior. The locale presents dozens of opportunities to recharge, refresh and rejuvenate.

It doesn’t take a great deal of stamina or zeal to enjoy the pleasures of Key West especially if you don’t like driving around in cars. Most activities are within a leisurely walk. Moreover, for those that need a thrill in their lives, this area will give tourists the opportunity to experience rewarding, challenging and stimulating activities.

A lot of high profile people like to visit Key West, Florida. It is a place that feels enormously freeing. Traveling miles from home where no one pays attention to who they are, and no one is interested in their identity is wonderful for celebrities. Actors, actresses, sports stars, authors and musicians can simply walk down Duval Street and feel normal. People passing by have no curiosity about who the wanderer is. In Key West, high profile people don’t have to worry about their appearance. They can let down their guard and this feels like a true getaway retreat.

Jody Carlson, innkeeper of the Key West Bed and Breakfast shares,  ”Key West is laid back. You don’t have to dress up. You can wear shorts and a T-shirt to the finest restaurants.” Jody continues,  “It is a place to get away from the hustle and bustle. Days here are longer, we linger as if there are no troubles in the world. We don’t supply newspapers except local news. We have no TV, and no phone. There is a resident dog. Parking on the street is non-metered. People don’t need a car once they get here.”

Former U.S. Presidents, fashion designers, novelists, musicians, comedians and baseball players like to take daily walks, perhaps along a street or park, and feel especially inconspicuous, beneath a hat and dark sunglasses. They can leave their old self behind and step into a new personality with a new identity. It is a very empowering feeling. Being ordinary, doing ordinary things feels just terrific.

Key West is a tiny paradise built upon coral rock and limestone. It is a feast for the senses that is easy to navigate. Area attractions such as Pirate Soul Museum and Hemingway Museum are convenient. There are great places to eat, shop, play, and stay.  Arts and cultural activities are plentiful. Friends and college buddies come back year after year at the same time for reunions. People come from all over the world to stay.

Several U.S. presidents such as Harry Truman, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy and Jimmy Carter have visited Key West. The history and architecture of Key West can be explored on bicycle; although walking tours are also a possibility. The Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square is a marvel for visitors and residents. Boat excursions and water tours provide a picturesque way to view the town from the ocean. Duval Street offers different entertainment options such as bars and restaurants -  all within walking distance of each other.

Musicians, writers, poets and artists have been inspired by Key West. It is a fun locale with interesting history. After you have played around there for a while, you will wonder why it took you so long to get there. From the beginning to the end of your visit, Key West will weave a compelling spell, and you might never wish to leave.

How often do we wind up at a place and don’t have the foggiest idea where to go and what to do? When we stay at a bed and breakfast inn, the experience and knowledge of the innkeeper resolves this conundrum in moments.

Most significantly, one of Key West’s strengths is its ability to present travelers with a multitude of interesting activities, and restaurants. The local people are friendly and band together to produce memorable experiences and intricate adventures that will never leave you. When visitors reach the conclusion of their vacation, they will invariably understand just how important every detail of the trip was. In addition, innkeepers, with their great knowledge and unique capabilities, can transform a traditional getaway into a real retreat that addresses a variety of delightful options. Rejuvenating spa treatments, which strike at the heart of our stress and anxiety, allow our tensions to slowly disappear.

When visiting Key West, there can be a great deal of activities on one’s plate. Fortunately, the innkeepers can help us organize our days in an easily digestible way. They can help weave together a multifaceted and varied itinerary of fun activities. For those who want to delve into the nitty gritty of Key West’s history, the innkeeper can be an indispensable resource who brilliantly fills the void.

With their breezy and casual lifestyle, the people of Key West have a great deal of sensitivity and insight. They refuse to permit discrepancies in age, occupation, culture or status to get in the way of their love for the place. As visitors, we get a good view of island life and it’s impact on locals.

FEATURED PROPERTY: It goes without saying that the grounds and facilities of the Key West Bed and Breakfast in Key West, Florida are peaceful and soothing to the eyes. A welcoming atmosphere is evident throughout the inn. The location is on a tropical island, with some of the best sunsets and sunrises imaginable. This gives visitors a sense of privacy and romance. The beautiful setting along with great service makes this a destination of unsurpassed charm.

Upon arrival, a staff member will check in guests at the front desk and escort visitors to their quiet and cozy rooms. The staff will familiarize newly arrived guests with the property, give them a tour of the inn and explain the history. The staff explains the breakfast particulars, and shares other details, including activities available in Key West. The innkeeper is known for her smiles, hospitality and attention to detail.

The Key West B & B is recommended to anyone who wants a good dose of serenity, privacy and relaxation. Relax on one of the four porches and just gaze at the beautiful gardens. It is a place where you can spend easy times in good conversation with friends.

SUMMARY: The Key West B & B is a lovely blend of warm service, sumptuous breakfasts, and home-style charm. The accommodating staff, comfortable rooms, abundant amenities, exceptional location, and excellent value make for a pleasant B & B experience.

ROOMS: Rooms are comfortable, airy and inviting. Relaxing beds are provided along with hairdryers. Toiletries are not included. The back garden has a Jacuzzi. There is free WiFi. Remnants of historic relics of the past, heirlooms, and antiques are evident throughout the property, and provide a glimpse into Key West’s history. The innkeeper has been collecting local art for 35 years and many pieces are displayed in the rooms and common areas. In addition to the comfort, rooms are immaculately clean with tasteful design and furniture. The property has a deck, four porches and a lovely garden.

SERVICE: Expect to receive gracious service with a warm smile. The owner/innkeeper and her staff are well known for their genuine hospitality, efficient service and willingness to help plan activities or excursions. The innkeeper and her staff are knowledgeable about the area and provide helpful suggestions to all of their guests.

AMENITIES: The inn is known for providing an exceptional, and hearty breakfast that is artfully presented. There is no dining room, but guests can eat in the common areas. Jamaican bread pudding, and seasonal fresh fruit are some of the items served for breakfast. All of the covered porches are ideal reading areas for visitors. The large common area living room is a peaceful space with a small library of different books, board games, and magazines.

LOCATION: The location is ideal for those who want to feel they are in a quiet getaway, yet still within the heart of the historic district.  It is only a few minutes from the shopping district. There are some well-established galleries where you can purchase jewelry, ceramics, textiles and paintings, or antiques just to name a few. Performing arts centers, spas, dining, parks, attractions, and cultural activities are just a short distance from the inn. Its proximity to fishing, walking, biking and water activities provides incomparable value.

CLEANLINESS: The B & B is known to be spotless, especially the guestrooms. The grounds and gardens are meticulously maintained. Overall everything, including the town, is quite eclectic.

VALUE: Compared to a standard hotel room, this property provides an excellent alternative. The niceties, friendly conversation and attentiveness of staff make the difference. The guests appreciate being asked if they are comfortable. The staff is helpful without being intrusive.

www.sustainablecontentment.com

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: C.J. Good is a freelance writer, keynote guest speaker, and author of two books about finding and cultivating contentment. “Little Gifts of Sustainable Contentment” (Reviews 4.5 Stars, Look Inside) is available on Amazon. C.J. Good speaks and consults on subjects ranging from sales and marketing, to building long term relationships. C.J. Good also gives keynotes on travel topics, health issues, and the generation x/y marketplace. Her purpose is to write quality books that will make a difference in reader’s lives. C.J. Good was a sales and marketing executive in the travel industry for 17 years. ~ www.sustainablecontentment.com

 

CONTACT:  Jody Carlson, innkeeper, Key West Bed and Breakfast, keywestbedandbreakfast.com, 800-438-6155, rates: -5 depending on room and season.

 

More Key West Travel Articles

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December 22nd, 2011

Key West, Florida (The Conch Republic)

Originally settled by the Calussa Indians, the Spanish conquistadors tried to take over this prime real estate in the Southwestern Keys. The beaches became the burial grounds for many of the natives, thus giving the Island the name of Bone Island; Cayo Hueso in Spanish. The English Anglicized this name to Key West.

John Simonton, and American businessman, purchased the island from Juan Pablo Salas and developed the island with the help of Greene, Whitehead, and Fleming. They encouraged the Navy to open a base to combat piracy in the area.

The island prospered because the coral reefs brought many ships to Davy Jones Locker. Many became millionaires from salvaging the numerous shipwrecks. At one point the people of Key West became the richest city per capita in the United States.

Henry Morrison Flager, against all odds and better judgement, built a railroad from Homestead to Key West.

The first train arrived on January 22, 1912. This connected the mainland with Key West. From Key West, Havana Cuba was only ninety miles away. Considered the Eighth Wonder of the Modern world, the Overseas Railroad spanned 42 stretches of sea with causeways and bridges, the longest being seven miles. From 1912 to 1935 Key West exploded as a tourist and business center. A major Class five hurricane destroyed much of the tracks in 1935. Once again Key West had been cut off from the mainland.

The State of Florida purchased the Overseas Railroad right-of way and turned it into the Overseas Highway in 1938, using the roadbed and bridges Henry Flager built.

World War II brought new prosperity to the island with the Naval Base. Ernest Hemmingway and Tennessee Williams resided and visited the island.

Cuban tobacco became hand rolled cigars.

In 1981 the Us Government set up road blocks near Key Largo, cutting off the tourist trade to Key West. Not too sure why this happened. The citizens of Key West decided to secede. They formed the Conch (Pronounced conk) Republic. Many still fly the flag today. They demanded billions in reparation and foreign aide. The US Government ignored their wishes; but they did remove the roadblocks.

Today Key West thrives primarily on tourism. Arrive by driving the 128 miles along the Overseas Highway on the old railroad bed, or fly into Key West Airport, or take the Key West Express ferry from Marco Island or Ft. Myers Beach. To acquaint yourself to the island take the 1½ to 2 hour Conch Tour Train. Tickets can be purchased at the booth at the Flager Train station or at The Old Town ticket booth near Mallory Square. The guided tour travels just about every street in Key West: a great orientation to the island. Other forms of transportation on the island are electric cars, bicycles, mopeds, taxicabs, and bicycle carriages for two. Walking the streets, perhaps, is the best way of seeing the island, which is four miles long and one mile wide. Traffic can be a real challenge, especially along US 1, which has its terminus at mile marker 0.

Looking for action? Duval Street is your goal. Stop and have a beer at Hemingway’s watering hole, Sloppy Joe’s bar and restaurant (the original bar is ½ block away at Capt. Tony’s Saloon). If your interests lean toward Jimmy Buffet, go to Margaritaville, only four short blocks down the street. Up and down Duval restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and people watching beckon everyone to the narrow sidewalks. You might even come across one of Key West famous chickens strolling the street.

Other highlights include Hemingway’s home, with guided tours running $ 12.00 at this time. Views from the exterior are free. Across Whitehead Street stands the old lighthouse and keepers quarters. The lighthouse was moved inland to protect it from hurricanes. A couple more blocks down the street is the Truman White House. President Truman used this resident and the many outbuildings during his time in office. Other dignitaries also followed his lead: John F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Colin Powell. Talking about President Truman, not to be missed is the Margaret Truman Laundromat. Rumor has it that it was named for Margaret Truman, the president’s daughter. Its location is at the corner of Margaret and Truman Streets. Thus its named.

Along Truman Street sits the convent of Our Lady of the Sea. Many survivors of the hurricane of 1935 were treated there. The nuns erected a grotto next to the church in honor of Our Lady of Lourdes. When hurricane season approaches many candles light the grotto as a prayer to keep Key West free and safe. A marker designates the Southernmost spot in the Continental USA. Tourists love to have their picture taken by it.

We ate lunch at Pepe’s Restaurant on Caroline Street, near Flager Station. This eatery, established in 1909, features American food in abundance. I had a hard time finishing my open faced meatloaf sandwich.

A trip to Key West is taking in the numerous water sports: parasailing, jet skis, snorkeling, riding glass bottom boats, deep sea fishing, or just relaxing on the beaches on the Atlantic Ocean side. A day trip to The Dry Tortugas National Park (Fort Jefferson) leaves daily from Key West.

Above all people-watching, the climate, and the laid back atmosphere draws people, young and old, to the Conch Republic. It beckons you too.

John and Maggie Pelley are Geriatric Gypsies. During our travels we have found many different and exciting places. Each town has a story to tell. Both of us enjoy good listening music as we go. Johnhas a CD he has recorded.

The secret to a great 36 hours on this small island off the tip of Florida is to make friends with the gregarious and outgoing locals. Related Article: nyti.ms Watch more videos at nytimes.com
Video Rating: 5 / 5

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May 29th, 2011

Raw Vegan Travel in Key West, Florida! Robert is Here Fruit Stand

Here in South Florida, Brian shares some photo and video from day one of his travels, featuring the famous “Robert is Here” Fruit Stand in Homestead, FL — the premiere location for tropical fruit (and therefore for low-fat raw/80-10-10 vegans). Also a quick look into raw vegan airplane snacks and food prep tools for the hotel room.

Check out this vid at the BrianonHealth blog:

Duration : 0:6:45

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February 17th, 2011

Key West Florida – Destination Video

Florida Keys, FL – Travel Guide.

Key West, Florida is the central point of all of the continental United States. Its Caribbean culture mixes with a blend of art, history, and relaxation.

Duration : 0:3:46

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February 13th, 2011

HOLLY SMOKE Ferrari Red 135 mph Power Boat

Made in New York, used in Florida, bought over the Internet and now in Kelowna, Holly Smoke is the amazing boat we have seen throughout the summer running up and down Okanagan Lake.
The boat is beautiful and is pulled by a truck with a matching paint job. 135 mph…wow. Ready for the next Poker Run.

Duration : 0:2:32

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February 11th, 2011

Hawks Cay Resort Duck Key Traveler Photos – TripAdvisor TripWow

http://tripwow.tripadvisor.com/tripwow/ta-009f-5e4a-9b10?ytv1=1 – Created at TripWow by TravelPod Hotels

Traveler Photos Of Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key

★ Check Rates at: http://www.travelpod.com/resort/Hawks_Cay_Resort-Duck_Key.html

Reviews for Hawks Cay Resort:

- “A week of paradise” from A TripAdvisor Member
“Just returned from a glorious week at Hawk’s Cay Resort. A few years ago we took a cruise and now our kids say that this resort was better than the cruise. There were five pools to choose from. There was a main pool right off the hotel, then there was the lagoon right behind it, with salt water that kept your afloat and tiki boats the …”

- “A GREAT RESORT” from RocketTom
“I am a travel agent and I have done lots of traveling and this place was paradise! They have a nice little beach/lagoon area with tiki huts to sit under, a dolphin encounter, live music, wedding gazebo (which was set up for a sunset wedding), charter boats, a kids pirate ship water park, gift shops, and much, much more. After reading all of the …”

- “Great family resort” from A TripAdvisor Member
“Hawk’s Cay is one of the most relaxing resorts north of Key West. Everything you need is right there on property, and the staff is extremely nice and accomodating. Familywise, it’s excellent, especially with the dolphin program…”

- “For Boaters or Families” from theresama40
“2BR/3 Bath Cottage with 2 lovely balconies right on the canal was very pleasant. We rented a boat one day and were able to dock in front of our unit. Lots of kids at the pools, which made them very popular with the kids in our family. Kids “pirate” pool and adjoining family pool very attractive — though construction noise and less than …”

- “First Class!” from A TripAdvisor Member
“Ignore the bad reviews, the resort is truly wonderful. Very clean, very warm and friendly people. The Kids’ Club is great, all 3 of my children enjoyed it. The pools are clean and never crowded since there are so many of them. The villas are impeccably clean. The restaurants have top quality food and service, and the family packages are …”

- “Grossest Resort (???) Ever” from ab5ster
“This place was advertised as a Resort. A resort from 1960 maybe. The hallway smelled like Mildew. There were kids everywhere and the rooms looked like college dorm rooms.. The adult pool was nice and the dolphin’s were cool to watch. Everything was overpriced and from the first moment we checked in to the moment we left we heard people …”

- “Huge resort” from A TripAdvisor Member
“Just returned from Hawk’s Cay. It’s a huge resort with very good facilities. Nice rooms, great pools, decent gym (small), tennis courts. We were there on a school vacation week so it was packed with kids. This is what we wanted. All in all we had a great trip. My complaints would be that it is so big and loud with steel drums and bad singers …”

- “You can do better” from A TripAdvisor Member
“This place is overrated. The entire place needs to be updated and it is not clean. The main thing it has going for it is the location. However, the pools are not particularly nice with the exception of the kids pool. You can do better in the Keys…”

- “Great for kids” from KidsinCalifornia
“We just returned from Hawk’s Cay after spending 7 days at the resort. The Indies “kid’s club” was under construction during our stay with some days being louder than others. The pirate ship water feature and the playset is excellent for the kids. Our only complaint was when we first checked in they did not have our reservation that we booked …”

More at: http://www.travelpod.com/resort/Hawks_Cay_Resort-Duck_Key.html

Photos in this video:
- “Hawks Cay Resort Lobby” by Bylandersea from a blog titled “Hawks Cay: Sensual Scrub, Delectable Dining and Pl”
- “The Dolphin Connection” by Bylandersea from a blog titled “Hawks Cay: Sensual Scrub, Delectable Dining and Pl”
- “Calm Waters Spa Lobby” by Bylandersea from a blog titled “Hawks Cay: Sensual Scrub, Delectable Dining and Pl”
- “Hawks Cay Resort pool” by Bylandersea from a blog titled “Hawks Cay: Sensual Scrub, Delectable Dining and Pl”
- “Hawks Cay Waterpark” by Bylandersea from a blog titled “Hawks Cay: Sensual Scrub, Delectable Dining and Pl”
- “A Dolphin Flips” by Bylandersea from a blog titled “Hawks Cay: Sensual Scrub, Delectable Dining and Pl”
- “Hawks Cay Beach” by Bylandersea from a blog titled “Hawks Cay: Sensual Scrub, Delectable Dining and Pl”

Duration : 0:1:28

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February 11th, 2011

Road Trip to Florida in HD, Part 29-6: Key West Harbor and the Beach

Key West

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February 11th, 2011

SaveOnFloridaTravel – Florida Keys

Key Largo to Key West, diving, driving, dining or just…well anything else we have great deals on all of it and more, SaveOnFloridaTravel.com/breakfast // created at http://animoto.com

Duration : 0:0:35

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February 9th, 2011

Season – For A Perfect Beach Wedding

A Perfect Key West Beach Wedding Make Your Memories Unforgotten http://www.perfectkeywestwedding.com/KeywestWedding/
A beach wedding fits every style or budget, from the simple elopement to an elaborate wedding complete with bridal party and reception. Whatever your plans are for your special day, a Key West wedding is the ultimate getaway wedding with the sun, sand and breeze creating a vacation for the guests.
The location has grown in popularity for a beach wedding not only for the natural beauty, but couples can pair the wedding with a honeymoon for their Key West wedding. After you say I do, then going out for the natural attractions, world famous diving, sports fishing, and simply basking on the beach. You can also choose from golf, kayaking, or sailing. There is also a wide range of good restaurants in Key West.
Key West has professionals available to handle all the details of your beach wedding as well. Key West wedding planners and professionals are available to find the location either a beach, chapel or garden providing music, catering, photography, and even catering. All you will have to do is bring your dress, yourselves, and relax.

Duration : 0:0:48

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