erial view of Duval St. with a view toward the Gulf of Mexico, taken from atop the La Concha Hotel during the day of Fantasy Fest parade 2004. Photo by Marc Averette.
Key West, a living coral island, lies at the southernmost point in the US and is nicknamed the Conch Republic. Residents brag of the laid back attitude and 'anything goes' atmosphere and are always ready to party. Mallory Square offers a free nightly Sunset Celebration with street performers and vendors. Roosters and cats roam the streets and pets are welcome in most restaurants. Old Town charm oozes from Victorian gingerbread homes, many turned into B & B's, lush tropical foliage and colorful shops. See Ernest Hemmingway's home, the Robert Frost Cottage, Harry Truman's Little White House, and hear plenty of Jimmy Buffet tunes. Take the Old Town Trolley or Conch Train and learn the history of pirates, wreckers and cigar rolling, visit museums, sunbathe at the beach, fish, rent a bike or hop aboard a sunset cruise. Lots of shopping, restaurants, bars and nightlife keep visitors entertained. There's no need for a car in Old Town. Flights from Miami take 40 minutes, driving about 4-5 hours. Visitors need a few days to really see the highlights of Key West.