While the size of Key West is small, there seems to be plenty to do. With the slow pace, you don't want to do too much. After all, you want something to look forward to on your next visit. And, with the humid heat, moving quickly is not an option unless you are moving into a cool bar.
Of course, we visited the southern-most point, only 90 miles from Cuba.
This distance from the mainland US helps keep the independent spirit alive in Key West. When we were asked where we were from, the reply was - oh, you are from the United States. The Conch Republic is a proud attitude, if not a real government.
Sitting at mile marker '0' helps reinforce the distance!
Remembering the discovery of tons of gold and silver in ship wrecks, I've always been curious about Mel Fisher's fascinating marine archeology. His story is interesting and includes years and years of minor finds, and even the deaths of his son and daughter-in-law in the process. His focus and enthusiasm for the search resulted in the development of the discipline of marine archeology along with unique equipment and techniques used to find what the sea has taken.
We stayed next to the lighthouse, which lit our way home each evening - a nice touch the city added for our convenience. Hemingway's home was across the street which made me think that, in his often altered state, it would have been a great help to follow the lighthouse home at night.
An area that has been developed since I was last in Key West (over 20 years ago) is the Truman Annex and Ft Zachary Beach. This is military property that has been converted to public use, much like the Presidio in San Francisco. The homes are very well preserved in beautiful neighborhoods, just down the road from a wonderful beach. While not as 'perfect' as our own Caledesi Island, the crystal turquoise water is very enticing and the beach is considered the best on the island.
It is great to see so many conch houses being renovated. Mark's favorite is the one with the swordfish gingerbread. gee...i wonder why.
No comments:
Post a Comment