Key West

I never thought I would enjoy going on a cruise as an adult. When I was young(er) I loved going on cruises with my family – buffets with what seemed like endless food options, a casino I felt I could pray my way to winning (I was in Catholic school then) and various opportunities to meet with other kids and dance at the ship’s discothèque. After puberty, I became a more sophisticated traveler. I explored European cities, alone or with friends. I was more intentional in my exploration: I tried different foods; I engaged with the locals; I walked until my feet hurt; I structured chance encounters and I felt free. Why would I ever go on a cruise again as an adult where I would be stuck in a space forced to talk to people stuffing their faces with hideous food, surrounded by screaming children marking their territories in the pool, while stopping at ports for a half hour to “discover the local culture”? I admit, I went on one cruise as an adult last year. While I enjoyed being with my husband and in-laws, making stops at many of my favorite Italian cities, it was the first time I ever spit out food. My sweet tooth quickly subsided when I expelled the sugar crystals they called ‘frosting’ embedded within a dry cake onto my plate. So, when I got the opportunity to go on Virgin’s Scarlet Lady cruise ship, my reaction was tepid at best, even when I heard the stops would be in Key West and the Bahamas. Of course, I was excited by the mere fact that I was going away, but a cruise was not my first choice.

Imagine a place that captures your heart time and time again, a tropical paradise that beckons you to relax and unwind. Key West is that place for me. With its friendly atmosphere, laid-back vibes and an abundance of amazing food and nightlife. The walkable streets and the welcoming locals make it a safe and inviting destination to slow down and immerse yourself in its charm. If you're looking for the perfect escape, Key West is where you need to be.

Nestled off the southern coast of Florida, the idyllic Florida Keys offer a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This chain of tropical islands is an underrated choice for travelers seeking relaxation, delicious cuisine and aquatic adventures. With its laid-back island vibes, stunning natural beauty and abundance of fresh seafood, the Florida Keys are a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered by those looking for a peaceful retreat by the water.

Key West is the southernmost part of the United States, marked by a buoy that makes a great photo op. If you haven’t been or are looking to book a vacation to this beautiful island, then hopefully my guide will help you decide that it is time for you to book. I have visited Key West multiple times over the years and each time it never disappoints me. I do recommend at least four days on the island to have time to see things and get the island vibe. I would go more often if there were more direct flights from Houston, but I tend to find myself in Fort Lauderdale because of the ease of getting there and to the beach within hours of leaving my home.

I have a deep and abiding love for the Florida Keys, a sentiment that blossomed during my many childhood visits as a Florida native. The Keys have always felt like a magical escape, where the turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and swaying palm trees create a paradise unlike any other. The laid-back lifestyle and rich, colorful history captivated my young imagination, and the countless hours spent snorkeling, fishing, and exploring the unique island chain left an indelible mark on my heart. Each trip was a new adventure, filled with the warmth of the sun and the salty sea breeze, fostering a connection that continues to draw me back to this day.

Key West has been immortalized in literature and music by the genius of Hemingway and Buffet and it doesn’t take long to understand why. The stunning natural beauty, pristine white sand beaches and turquoise clear water captivates you from the moment you begin the journey over the bridge entering the Keys. It exudes a relaxed, laid-back and “come as you are” vibe, encouraging you to leave your worries behind.

Ultimately, the relaxed vibe of Key West is not just a product of its stunning scenery or leisurely pace of life, but also a testament to the warm hospitality of its residents, known affectionately as "Conchs." There is a pervasive sense of acceptance and inclusivity. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Key West welcomes you with open arms and invites you to experience its unique brand of island paradise.

Ahhh, Florida. America’s #1 vacation destination. There’s a lot to love about mainland Florida, but the best of the Sunshine State lies south of the Florida peninsula at the end of Highway 1. Key West is the epitome of chill and oozes good vibes. There is a culture of open-mindedness that embraces all travelers just as they are, and that is what makes Key West special.

As a Florida native, Key West holds a special place in my heart. It's a destination I've cherished since my youth, and it remains one of my absolute favorites. Let me help you plan the perfect Key West getaway, tailored to your interests and preferences. Contact me today to start your adventure.

Key West is a destination I frequently visit because of the convenience, exceptional weather year-round, and the thriving atmosphere of the island. You get the sense of being somewhere unique and tropical without the need for a passport or hassle through customs. There is so much variety for the type of trip you can take in Key West, whether it’s Spring Break with friends, a family vacation, or a couple's getaway. I have had the joy of experiencing it all and highly recommend it for a last-minute winter escape or your next trip to the tropics. Here are the five best places to stay in Key West and beyond!

Rent a car in Miami or Fort Lauderdale, then drive just 90 minutes to Homestead to enter a different world. Everglades National Park offers a glimpse of the unique ecosystem that forms where land and water meet. You'll have opportunities to observe and learn about marine life as you drive all the way down the Florida Keys. Once you reach Key West, the focus is on culture and history—plus live music and fantastic food. Optional side trips to Dry Tortugas National Park and Havana, Cuba, contribute additional historical and cultural learning. Too many people visit Florida without ever experiencing the Keys, where you can get a taste of the Caribbean within the United States.