Key West (Florida) is both a city and an island. The territory belongs to the United States. You can get to it by numerous bridges - directly from Homestead or Miami. The island is located in one of the southernmost points of the United States, in a large archipelago called the Florida Keys. Among travelers, this resort is known for its warm climate, gorgeous beaches and high-end hotels.
From history
Until the 16th century, the Kaalus Indian tribes lived here. In 1521, the first person from Europe visited the place. The name was given to the island, meaning "covered with bones", which was associated with Indian battles. The modern name appeared due to an error. The Spanish words were eventually replaced by similar-sounding English ones. And now the name of the city of Key West can literally be translated as "western key". Over time, the island began to be populated by new residents arriving from other territories. They were engaged in fishing, from time to time they had to save passengers from sinking ships from death. S alt production was also developed here. In the 19th century, the island became part of the United States. Over the years, the place has become popular with tourists and vacationers.
At the beginning of the last century, the famous railroad was laid through the islands, which stretched straight from Miami. It was destroyed by a strong storm in the 30s and was replaced by a car. Now just over 25 thousand people live here permanently.
Consequences of the elements
Strong winds and tornadoes in Florida are not uncommon. Hundreds of residents died after a hurricane that hit in 1935. But this was not the only such episode in the life of Key West. More recently, in September 2017, the city of Key West was severely affected by Hurricane Irma. Houses and buildings were destroyed, trees uprooted. The wind speed almost exceeded 210 km/h. The violence of the elements led to a severe flood. As a result, many residents were left without a roof over their heads, while the people themselves were previously evacuated. The city is gradually being restored, many objects are being rebuilt.
Beach vacation
What is it that attracts tourists to Key West, Florida? First, the special climate. In these parts, the temperature regime does not fall below zero degrees. The weather is usually clear and sunny. From morning to evening, you can spend time on the beach, acquiring pleasant shades of tan, swimming in the purest sea water.
Coastal area strewn with sand. The most popular among tourists is the equipped Smathers beach, where there are parking lots, retail outlets and cafes, a recreation area with the ability to rent tables and chairs. Many come here for diving orfishing. You can buy a catamaran or a boat for a while. There are also wild beaches on the island. For example, one of these is located on the territory of Fort Zachary Taylor Park. A quieter and more peaceful place with significantly fewer tourists.
Entertainment
The already named park is one of the must-see places in Key West, Florida. Until the 40s of the last century, there was an active fort here. At the moment, this is a historical park where you can take a walk (on foot or by bike), rent a kayak or sit in a cafe. Visiting hours of the park should be confirmed in advance.
Duval Street is considered the main street of the city. On both sides you can see numerous cafes and restaurants. For example, Sloppy Joe's is a bar that Hemingway himself used to visit! Admirers of the writer's work are sure to come here to take photos of the interiors and have a couple of cocktails. This place often hosts concerts with live music. In other establishments, they offer to sing karaoke, and if you come in the evening or at night, you can get into a colorful show and become a participant in the carnival.
Key West Attractions
You can move around the city not only on your feet. It also offers excursions, which are conducted on a special tourist bus. You can also rent a scooter or bike to explore the area on your own. There are many palm trees around. Coconuts from them are sold in trading shops. Inside they stretch a tube to drink coconutmilk was more convenient.
At the southernmost point of Key West, Florida is a local landmark - a large painted buoy. Sometimes a long line of tourists line up to take pictures next to him. The buoy symbolizes the southern point of the United States (although in fact this is not entirely true). It also says "90 miles to Cuba".
The city sells original souvenirs: it is wise to buy something to remember your visit to Key West (Florida). These can be magnets, small crafts, or Cuban cigars sold in some stores. They are made on the island, according to local sellers. By the way, real Cuban cigars are not allowed to be sold in the United States.
Museums
Key West has many interesting museums. First of all, it is worth mentioning the Hemingway Museum, located in the house where the writer lived. The building has a long history, and it was built already in 1851. In the museum you can see antique furniture and things of the famous author. Hemingway brought some trophies with him from expeditions to distant countries. The museum is home to amazing animals - six-toed cats. These are the descendants of the writer's pet cat.
Hardly any other city has a Shipwreck Museum. Here is an interesting exposition of things that got to the inhabitants of Key West from sinking ships. In addition to household items, you can see real gold bars, as well as watch introductory videos about rescue operations. Another museum complex where you can get acquainted with marine treasures and treasures is the MarineFisher Museum. And you can look at the inhabitants of the ocean by visiting the Key West Aquarium. Entrance there, as in museums, is paid, but tickets can be ordered in advance.
How to get there?
You can get to the island on a large cruise ship. This is how tourists from China and other distant countries arrive in the Florida Keys. Another option is to fly by plane. Key West has a small international airport. But it is worth considering that the weight of luggage is very limited. Most often, travelers prefer to get to the island by car. The bridge offers a stunning view of the sea, coral reefs and passing ships. On the way, you can also see what is left of the destroyed railway.
There are practically no buildings higher than two floors in the city. And in some ancient buildings, according to legend, ghosts live. An example is the Victorian mansion Marrero's Guest Mansion, near which the silhouette of a dead girl, the beloved of the former owner of the house, has been seen more than once. And the walls of some other buildings still remember the days of pirate bloodshed.
You can stay in Key West (Florida) in a good hotel or in a private house. Some residents rent rooms or entire villas to visitors.
