The Florida Keys are a 106 mile long chain of islands that begin at the very bottom of Florida’s mainland. They are often referred to as America’s Caribbean.
These islands are surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. The Keys offer some of the finest fishing and diving in the world and are the home of the only living Coral Reef in the Continental United States. The Keys are also the home of some of Florida’s finest parks and sanctuaries.
Key West is the last island in the chain from Miami. There are about 42 bridges in the ocean to reach this place. It is very small may be 5 miles long.
Key Largo is the first island south of the Florida mainland, and Key West is approximately 100 miles south of Key Largo. In between are the lovely islands of Islamorada, Long Key, Marathon, Big Pine Key and many more. Key Largo is about a 1 1/2 hour drive from Miami Airport and Key West is roughly another 2 hours drive.
The old town of Key West is one of America’s true architectural and botanical treasures. On even the tiniest lanes, the locals have faithfully restored old wooden homes and adorned them with lush tropical trees and flowers.
The island’s seafaring tradition lives on at the renovated Historic Seaport district, known locally as the Key West Bight. Dozens of shrimp boats once called this harbor home. These days, “the Bight” is a popular place to arrange a day on the water, whether you are a diver, snorkeler, fisherman or eco-tourist. Others come just to stroll along the harbor walk or dine at one of the many restaurants.
Key West has always been in the news because of hurricanes. During this time many people were evacuated from here. It is also a point for illegal entry as Cubans try to enter USA illegally through Florida Keys. They can stay if they reach the US shore. If they are caught in the middle, they are deported back.
When you step into Key West prepare to fall in love with its tropical landscape. Unparalleled hospitality and a wealth of attractions keep visitors flocking to America?s Southernmost City year after year for a taste of paradise. Key West has something for everyone, from sport fishing to treasure hunting, sunbathing to sailing, and fine dining to pub crawling. Whatever your interests, Key West?s mild climate ensures warm temperatures, cloudless days, and starlit nights.
Duval street is the main street and many cruise ships dock here. Many of the pictures I have clicked are around Duval street. As is shown in one of the photos, houses have tin roofs. After a major fire broke out, it was a law to have tin roofs.
The buildings are not more than 3 stories high because of hurricanes. Key West has distinguished style of houses as the city does not allow the building of modern houses.
Mallory square in Key West is famous for its sunset. There are many shows where skilled artists demonstrate their skills. Visitors flock to this square for this reason.
Some known facts
The case of Elian Gonzales, the Cuban boy who landed here is very famous. Gonzales was forcefully taken by FBI from Miami.
The famous writer Hemmingway and the famous poet Robert Frost lived here. So also US president Harry Truman.
(Article content from various internet sources)
Author: Melwyn DSouza- USA