"Key West one of my favorite spots in... " a Key West Travel Page by TheTravelSlut

The Conch Republic as it is often called and referred to, is diffcult to explain unless you have not only visited, but experienced, what it has to offer. In 1992, it seceded (on paper only) from the U.S. and declared its independance. It remains the southernmost point of the mainland U.S.

Key West is cosmopolitan yet, at times and places, a throwback to modern times.

Here on the island that Ernest Hemingway called home, you can find 6-toed cats, key lime pie, bodypainted people roaming the bars, streets, and shops, and shipwrecks or treasures.

Key West is international, a cruiseship port, and just 90 miles from Cuba.

Key West hosts many events each year so be sure to check their calendar of events to make sure you do not have any conflicts with accomodations,e etc.

The biggest event is Fantasy Fest held the last week of each October. (Refer to my travelogues, nightlife and things to do tips for further information).

Key West opens its arms to anyone and everyone. That is one of its greatest virtues.

One family is what they call it. It works locally and globally.

Key West has North America's only living coral reef just a few miles offshore. There is a old fort accessible only by boat or seaplane offshore also.

Key West has a long history and has been home to many VIP's and it has survived several major hurricanes including Wilma in 2005.

Today, Key West is divided into Old Town and New Town, Bahama Village and Seaport Village. There is modern right alongside old and it works.

You may find professional people doing the "Duval Crawl" from bars, pubs and saloons or you may find students, families, cruiseship passengers, and foreigners doing everything from studying history to enjoying a beer at Sloppy Joes.

There are strange things in Key West that are better off discovered by oneself.

Whether it be speedboat races, lobster season, big game fishing, scuba diving, treasure hunting, snorkeling, swimming, boating & sailing, cruising, renting a motor scooter, sightseeing, walking,visiting museums, shopping, drinking or dining, you will find it all in Key West.