The Southernmost Point in the continental United States and a one-of-a-kind locale you just have to experience at least once in your lifetime, Key West is an eclectic mix of Duval Street nightlife which gives New Orleans a run for its money; delicious grub which can start with bloody Mary breakfasts of rich, syrupy Belgian waffles and mouth watering Canadian ham and poached eggs dripping with creamy hollandaise (Mine was served bistro-style amongst free-roaming chickens. Yep!); and history, culture and entertainment beyond comparison. 

There’s Hemingway’s house and his clowder of six-toed cats; the maritime museum which keeps the secrets of shipwrecks and pirates of long ago; and Mallory Square has no rival. Stop by any day at sunset and prepare to be entertained by dogs on unicycles (I know, right?), trained cats (Yes, I really just said that too.), jugglers, street musicians and who knows what else!

Or visit Marathon, the largest Florida Key, which is home to the Turtle Hospital – one of this state’s top wildlife rescue and rehabilitation facilities.

Key Largo, considered the dive capital of the world by many, also offers Dolphin Care, a family-friendly interactive dolphin attraction and is the resting place of the famous boat called the African Queen, made famous by Humphry Bogart and Kathryn Hepburn.

Don’t forget Islamorada! After your fishing charter (It is, after all, the sportfishing capital of the world), head over to Cheeca Lodge & Spa, accommodations that are simply heaven on earth. If you can’t afford to stay there (This writer couldn’t.), maybe stop in and have a cocktail while you enjoy the ocean view.