MORE and more Aussies and Kiwis are finding that there’s a whole lot more to the USA east of
the Californian border, especially on their 2nd and 3rd escapade to this great land. Cruisers are
also flying those extra few hours from the West Coast to sunny Florida to experience a Caribbean
cruise. The choice of cruise and ship options is mind-boggling when cruising the Caribbean. What
you may not realise is that on some itineraries, there’s a great stop before you head further south
towards those idyllic islands. Key West is a great place to visit and you’re still in Florida.
Key West offers a bucket load of reasons why it’s so appealing. (1) Your ship usually docks just a few
steps from downtown. (2) The weather is hot and sunny…. most of the time. (3) It’s super easy to
get around. (4) The atmosphere is always set on ‘fun’ mode. (5) There’s excellent water activities,
including deep sea fishing and snorkelling. (6) The Old Town Trolley tour…so good because it’s
delightful and only 90 mins long. (7) Great dining and interesting shopping.
The moment you step off your ship’s gangway, you’re in central Key West. In-fact, your ship often
docks just a few steps from Duval Street, the main shopping street, with many streets leading
from it packed with things to do and see. Just strolling about Key West is pure joy. Make sure you
escape the main street and take in the incredible colour of the Key West architecture. The blending
of architectural styles is distinctively colloquial Key West, so make sure you look up and around
and not just into shop windows.
About town I would recommend the Old Town Trolley Tour. It’s short and shows you all the major
sights. Among them is Ernest Hemingway’s Home and Museum (and all his cat’s descendants);
the Harry S Truman Little Whitehouse, which was used as the White House during the Truman
administration; Key West Aquarium and Key West Shipwreck Museum; and the gorgeous Audubon
House & Tropical Gardens. If you’re here around dusk, Key West is renowned for stunning sunsets.
For the culinary aficionados, one of my favourite restaurants is Louie’s Backyard.
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: Jan – May
Don’t Miss: Strolling Key West streets, sunset
Tour or Not: A mix of both or strolling is easy
Sightseeing: Old Town Trolley Tour, Duval Street
Food: Key Lime Pie… Incredible! Seafood
Language: English
Shopping: T-shirts, colourful souvenirs, local & Caribbean art
Cash or Card: Credit Card and/or USD cash
