Category Archives: Key West

Jet Skiing Myths Debunked

August 7, 2012

Key West Harbor Walk — Don’t let the calm waters fool you!

On our recent getaway to Key West for Hemingway Days, we arrived at the popular jet ski tour located on Front Street, part of the Historic Seaport Harbor Walk in Old Town. We were excited about our upcoming adventure. I wore a swimsuit, cover-up, and a huge smile. Little did I know how ill-prepared I was, having bought into the myths of this particular water sport.

Myth #1:  Jet skiing is for anyone!

The reality…

If you’re nervous about controlling your own jet ski, don’t even think about being a passenger, where you’re at the mercy of another person’s driving skills (or lack thereof) and have very little to hold onto to keep yourself from flying off the back of the machine. My husband is a big man, and with a life jacket, even bigger. I couldn’t wrap my arms completely around him so I grasped the jacket’s front straps and held on for dear life. Oh, and you’d think it would be wise to slather up with sunscreen in preparation for the sunny day, but once the ocean spray hits your legs you’ll have less traction than a greased pig. You’ll be so slippery that when you race to catch up with the rest of your tour group, the only part of your body not flying a like a flag in a stiff breeze will be two fingers–precariously close to losing their grip.

Myth #2: It’s a great way to enjoy wildlife!

The reality…

Let me ask you, “How many dolphins, sting rays, sea turtles, and manatees do you think you’re likely to see on a jet ski tour?” If you answered zero, you’re correct. The waves, vibration, and noise created by one jet ski is enough to send all nearby waterlife and fowl headed as far away from you as possible. Combine that with the five other machines in your tour group, and you’ve effectively driven away the hardiest of water creatures. Don’t feel too badly though. You’re being pummeled by salt water at 30-60 miles per hour, so you can’t see a damned thing anyway. All you can concentrate on is staying on the jet ski, ignoring the sting in your eyes, and praying for the safety of land.

These jet skiers make it look easy!

Myth #3: It’s not only fun, but educational!

The reality…

Sure, the tour guides are knowledgeable about the area, and they stop at four or five different sites to impart historical trivia. The only problem is, between the airplanes and helicopters flying overhead and your heart beating a staccato terror drum roll, you’ll hear about one of every ten words–learning absolutely nothing other than how thankful you are to be alive and that you should NEVER believe those glossy brochures.

Myth #4: It’s thrilling, yet safe!

The reality…

If you enjoy being frightened to within an inch of your life, imagining that at any second you’re going to sail through the air and hit water at about fifty miles per hour and worrying about the inexperienced jet skiers behind you running you over, then yes, it’s thrilling. If you enjoy riding on the back of a motorized machine, much like an out-of-control motorcycle, contending with five foot waves of the Atlantic which causes your pelvis to bang repeatedly against the jet ski’s seat, then yeah, that’s thrilling too. If you’re a closet exhibitionist, and enjoy the idea of accidentally exposing your bottom half to your entire tour group at a brief stop to wade at a sandbar, then most definitely, it’s thrilling.

Safe, not so much. But it’s not as if you aren’t forewarned, signing those requisite waivers about loss of life or limb before you’re allowed to mount your water steed. Life is risky, and jet skiing, if you so choose, is part of life. If you jet ski in calm lake, bay, or gulf waters, it may be quite fun and safe. If you are an inexperienced jet skier riding with another inexperienced jet skier anxious to prove his manliness, and your group’s intent is to tour twenty-six miles around an island between the Gulf of Mexico into choppy Atlantic waters with a time limit of two hours, then it can be a tad more risky.

Paddleboarding, a low-tech option.

Luckily, the only victim of our jet ski ride were my sunglasses. A rogue wave drenched us about thirty seconds from the conclusion of our tour and I made the mistake of lifting my face to the sun. The wind caught my glasses and they disappeared into Key West harbor. Hesitant to litter, we turned back to look for them, but the deafening horn of a ferry on our tail changed our minds. We bonded from our common experience, filled with a few moments of sheer terror interspersed with moments of joy, riding the waves around our beloved tropical island.

Will I do it again? Maybe. But next time, I drive!

That’s my take on jet skiing. What’s yours? We’d love to hear your story about that or any other water sport.

Key West Street Fair and Sunsets

July 30, 2012

Booths at the Street Fair

The Papa Look-Alikes Contest is a big draw for fans of Key West Hemingway Days, but that’s not all this annual festival offers.

Saturday afternoon, Old Town hosted a Caribbean Street Fair, designed to reflect the spirit of Key West during the original Hemingway’s era. A large section of Duval Street was closed to vehicles for local artisans and mom-and-pop food vendors to display their goods. People browsed the stands, many sipping ice cold lemonade in the tropical heat. There was wall art designed from sheet metal, touristy plaques made from recycled fence, Cuban sandwiches, and Bahamian-prepared sausages among other items. We bought little other than bottled water, focused on hydration.

At dusk, over six hundred people participated in the Hemingway 5K Sunset Run/Walk. My husband entered as a runner, and convinced me to participate as a walker. I ran recreationally for a number of years, but with children and other responsibilities, I’d become more of a treadmill kind of gal this past decade. More recently, I was injured in a fall and endured PT for many months. My knees continue to give me grief. On top of that, Key West’s weather was still like a steambath at race time. I had valid concerns about finishing.

I kissed my husband good luck and he flew ahead of us few walkers with the other runners. I focused on putting one foot in front of the other, stretching my gait as far as possible and pumping those arms. And I kept that pace. Eventually, I passed a number of other racers, some jogging slower than my walk. That’s okay, though, because we were all in it for fun. The race entry fees went toward a local children’s organization, and there was something special about race-walking from the famous Southernmost Point, down Whitehead Street where Hemingway’s Museum is located, onto the Truman Annex, down the Quay for a spectacular sunset view, looping through sidestreets and back down Whitehead to the finish line at Southernmost Point. Spectators cheered and encouraged everyone. I did it. We all did it. It felt good. I may just enter another 5K in the future, and next time I’ll run.

What a View!

When was the last time you were coaxed into doing something outside your comfort zone? How did it turn out?

Hemingway Days 2012 – The Full Story

July 27, 2012

In honor of Ernest Miller Hemingway, born on July 21, 1899

Papa fans celebrated the 32nd annual Hemingway Days with a variety of events July 18th-July 22nd, 2012. There was something for everyone, from participation in the three-day Key West Marlin  Tournament to a tour of the “Hemingway in Key West” Exhibition at the Custom House to Sloppy Joe’s Arm Wrestling Championship. Too much, in fact, to experience it all. In that way, this post’s title may be a bit misleading. I do promise to share all the Hemingway highlights from our particular trips–in this post and Monday’s. If you’re seeking more information about the writer and man please read my post, “Hemingway’s Key West Years.” 

I’d heard about the Papa Look-Alike Contest, and had seen the pictures, but it was disconcerting to stand in a roomful of one hundred or so white-bearded men–wearing khakis or early 20th century Spanish garb and striking Hemingway-like poses.

Let the crowds begin!

We attended the second evening of competition. The air in the packed pub sizzled with anticipation and the scent of Cuban cigars. A movie crew taped the event, making the experience even more surreal for Hemingway Days newbies like us.

Sign at Sloppy Joe’s

We searched for Hemingway descendants and heard rumors Paula Dean of FoodNetwork fame was present, her husband one of the Look-Alike hopefuls. We chatted with entrants like first-year competitor Papa James, who asked for support in exchange for a hug and photo.

One of many 2012 Papa Look-Alikes

By the time the competition began, we were jammed together in the steamy, open-air bar. We enjoyed the first two groups of eight contestants. They introduced themselves and each made a speech or told the judges why he should be the winner. One of the first-year competitors recited a lengthy Hemingway quote. It was great! Before the next of eight groups took the stage, we lightweights left the die-hard fans to their contest. We escaped to Lower Duval for sustenance and a bar with AC. If you were to attend, I’d suggest arriving early enough for a stool at the bar (maybe before 3?), increasing your chances of lasting all four hours.

Gotta love the Papas!
Parading of the Bulls

The following day, we joined other tourists on the corner of Greene and Duval for photos with the Papas. Like many Hemingway Days events, donations were accepted on behalf of charities benefitting local children. All Sloppy Joe events raised money for the Papa Look-Alike Society. This group awards annual scholarships to Key West Community College students. We watched as the Papas, some on Key West-like bulls, led a happy throng in a short parade around the block.

I’m thrilled to have scheduled our summer getaway to the Conch Republic during this festival. Not only was it a lot of fun, but an added bonus to be part of so many charitable events. It feels good to help others. Please come on back for the remaining highlights of our Hemingway Days on Monday, including photos from the 5K Hemingway Sunset Run. Until then, have a wonderful weekend doing what you love!

Have you ever attended Hemingway Days or a similar type of festival? If so, what are your favorite memories from the event?

Site of the orignal Sloppy Joe’s

A Dinner and Romance, Key West Style

April 23, 2012

You’ve booked your flight and rooms and are on your way to Key West with your sweetheart. Now for those little details, like choosing just the right restaurant for romance-filled evenings. With dining options galore in the Conch Republic, confusion may ensue. Relax. Let Margarita Moments narrow the choices for you.

  • Michaels – Known for its steak and seafood, this restaurant is a sure bet when it comes to quality cuisine and impeccable service. You may want to dine outdoors in their garden oasis. Michaels’ drink selection is impressive, including a variety of wines and martinis. I suggest the White Chocolate Martini made with Stoli Vanil Vodka & White Creme de Cacao, served in a Belgian chocolate rimmed glass. If you’re interested in one of their delicious fondue appetizers, be sure to order your selection immediately, as it takes 20-25 minutes to prepare. Entree servings are a healthy size, but leave room for dessert. I’d recommend sharing a warm chocolate volcano. Mmm.
  • The Flaming Buoy – A twilight dinner for two on this up-and-coming restaurant’s cozy side porch may set the mood for romance. The waitstaff is friendly yet unobtrusive. You won’t feel rushed as you may at some eateries, and the food is all about taste and comfort. I highly recommend the lobster mac and cheese. Click on the restaurant name above for my unabridged review.
  • Latitudes – This restaurant isn’t in Old Town like the others listed here, but is easily accessible via a complimentary ten-minute ferry ride to Sunset Key. I haven’t eaten here yet. There are so many wonderful choices in Key West, and this Westin Resort restaurant is a bit on the pricey side. Many reviewers say eating alfresco on Latitude’s quiet beach at sunset is worth every penny, though, and I imagine it is.
  • Hot Tin Roof – This restaurant is part of the sophisticated Ocean Key Resort overlooking Key West Harbor, the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner. You may select small plates or opt for a heartier entree. Click here to see the menu. We’ve never been disappointed with its service or ambiance.
  • nine one five – Located at, you guessed it, 915 Duval Street, this is a tapis restaurant. Request a table for two on the building’s front porch, and you’ll be able to people watch while whispering sweet nothings to your love between servings. If you like chocolate, you may wish to make Life by Chocolate your meal’s final act.
  • Cafe Sole – Boasting French cuisine and intimate indoor or alfresco seating, this award-winning establishment is recommended by Key West aficionados and foodies across the internet. I haven’t eaten here before, but now it’s on my list!
  • Cafe Marquesa – This historied restaurant is affiliated with Marquesa Hotel, lodging designed for the discerning traveler. We’ve biked and strolled past it many times, and look forward to one day sitting inside as patrons. We hear the food is as incredible as the hotel’s reputation.
  • Charter boat — For the ultimate in intimate, rent a private yacht for a dinner sunset sail around Key West harbor. What a beautiful ending to a romantic getaway!

Wherever you decide to dine, may you eat and drink in good health and happiness. Bon appetit!

What’s the most romantic restaurant you’ve enjoyed or wish to experience?

Waxing Poetic

April 17, 2012

April is one of my favorite months. Spring is in full bloom, Long Island days seem slightly sunnier…and it’s poetry month. To put you in the poem frame of mind, here’s a haiku I wrote, just for you.

Poetry

Sensory snapshot in words

Lines, rhymes, alliteration, stanzas

Rhythm rolling off my tongue

When I’m in the mood for a little poetry pick-me-up but don’t have the energy left to write my own, I surf on poetry websites. The next poem is courtesy of www.OnlyPoems.com.:

Tropical Island

Palm trees sway

To the beat of the drums

As my plane lands

My Caribbean escape awaits

 

I dip my feet

Into the refreshing warm water

The ocean sweeps me away

To my personal paradise

 

Flashes of color

Shimmering scales

Crystal blue water

A blissful sight

 

The burning red sun

Battles the soft ocean breeze

My toes dig deeper into the sand

I don’t want to leave

 

The reef is a playground

To all curious creatures

And the seaweed rocks back and forth

To the rhythm of the water

 

But sunset comes

In shades of orange, yellow, and pink

As it settles to rest

Sinking beneath the ocean waves

by Peyton Alexis

Do you like poetry? Why or why not? If you like poetry, do you have any favorite poets or related websites you’d recommend?

P.S. – If you’re not into poetry, no worries. Next week’s post will be written in prose. 🙂

 

Hemingway’s Key West Years 1928 – 1939

April 6, 2012

Hemingway lived his dreams, as shown by this grade school assignment. ( KW Museum)   Click for a larger view.

Thank you for your patience. The more I researched about this larger-than-life man, the more contradictions I encountered. The Hemingway Resource Center website suggests, “To find the truth about Hemingway, look first to his fiction.”

I did just that, along with gathering information from the Key West Museum, chatting with Key West historians, and poring through published biographies and online sources. If you find Hemingway a fascinating figure, too, you may wish to read his work and research to draw your own conclusions.

Ernest Miller Hemingway was an accomplished writer by the time he and his second wife arrived in Key West. John Dos Passos, his friend at the time, had recommended they stop there for a holiday on their return from Paris in April 1928.

Like many tourists to the tiny island, Ernest and Pauline were instant converts and determined to settle there. Perhaps it reminded them of the foreign lands they loved, while still part of the United States, situated as it is on the southernmost tip of Florida’s westward archipelago. After three years of renting apartments, the couple purchased a house in Old Town with money loaned by Pauline’s uncle.

907 Whitehead Street

Hemingway wrote the final draft of his bestselling A Farewell to Arms at their new home on 907 Whitehead Street, rising early each morning to write. He also published works such as Death in the Afternoon, Green Hills of Africa, and two of his most beloved short stories, “The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber” and “The Snows of Kilimanjaro” during his Key West years. As for his family life, Pauline gave birth to two sons during this time, and outfitted their property with a luxurious 20′ x 60′ pool, carved out of the island’s coral bedrock for $20,000 in 1938.

At home by the pool (Courtesy Hemingway House)

When the midday tropical sun drove him away from his writing, Hemingway gravitated toward the water or his favorite watering hole. Whether his time away from home was a consequence or cause of an unhappy marriage, only Pauline and he would know for sure. Whatever the case, Papa Hemingway as the macho persona developed during this decade.

On land, Papa continued his lifelong enjoyment of boxing. The backyard of a brothel in Bahama Village constructed a boxing ring where he spent many happy hours. This site is now home to the popular Blue Heaven restaurant. According to R. Andrew Wilson’s Write Like Hemingway, Papa “was known to exaggerate his own experience in the ring,” athough Key West historians assure me he did spar with locals and won quite often.

He enjoyed his drink as much as the next man, spotted at Sloppy Joe’s most afternoons. The original Sloppy Joes was located on 428 Greene Street and has been renamed Capt. Tony’s Saloon. (The current Sloppy Joe’s bar at the corner of lower Duval and Greene came to be when the owner refused to pay a rent increase at the former site and relocated in 1937.) Joe “Josie” Russell, the bar’s owner, is said to have cashed a $1,000 royalty check for Hemingway when all the banks refused, earning him a close friendship with the writer.

“Tag and Release. Not!”

Papa was an avid fisherman, the photos of him throughout present-day Key West establishments an apparent  testament to his prowess. The picture to the right can be seen at the Turtle Kraals Bar & Restaurant.  For his extended fishing trips to Havana, Papa would charter Josie Russell’s boat. Fans of Hemingway’s final novel, The Old Man and the Sea, may be interested to learn that the character, Santiago, was inspired by Papa’s Cuban mate, Carlos Gutierrez. According to Hemingway’s personal accounts, this mate had fished marlin for forty years and was a gifted storyteller. Photos, including one of Carlos Gutierrez with Papa, can be viewed here.

Why did Papa ultimately leave Key West?

At some point in his island adventures, Hemingway met journalist Martha Gellhorn, his future third wife. As with Pauline while still married to Hadley, he had an affair with Martha before divorcing Pauline in 1940. In addition, his last book written in Key West, To Have and Have Not, was considered by many critics to be second-rate. Some say he moved on with a new wife to a new life for a rebirth of his career. Although he owned the house until his death in 1961, Ernest Miller Hemingway’s life in Key West ended in 1939.

Was Hemingway an example of art imitating life, or life imitating art? Or were both so intertwined it’s impossible to separate the legend from the writer?

What are your thoughts about Hemingway, either as a historical figure or American writer?

Home Away From Home…the Grand Guesthouse KW

February 6, 2012

Click on Photo for Official Website

I must confess… I’ve hesitated to write about our favorite little bed & breakfast in Key West for a very selfish reason. Today, my conscience won out, and I find myself compelled to share with you the hidden gem my husband and I discovered on our fourth getaway to the Conch Republic.

So why the hold out? Well, my reluctance was based on Economics 101 tenets. Supply and demand tells us that if more people know about a place , the more who may want to stay there than there are rooms available. And the cost will rise. If that were to happen at the Grand, we’d be thrilled for them but sad for us. The rates could stretch beyond our budget, or worse yet, shut us out altogether.

The Grand Guesthouse was the second bed and breakfast we ever booked in Key West. Since we enjoyed our stay so much, we continue to return each year. That’s not to say there aren’t other small establishments that are as deserving of a recommendation. We’ve toyed with the idea of booking a different place on occasion yet, so far, we haven’t chanced it. The Grand is a known, beloved quantity. To be fair, a friend of mine vacationed in Key West this past summer and gave rave reviews of another bed and breakfast. I hope to convince her to allow me to interview her for a future post. (No pressure, Kathy!)

Of course, you may prefer staying at one of the island’s luxury resorts such as the Marriott Beachside outside Old Town. My brother’s family stayed there recently and enjoyed all the amenities–especially the pool atmosphere. If you want luxury and be in the middle of the action, La Concha Hotel on Duval or the Ocean Key Resort overlooking Mallory Square are great options.

Should I be the lucky winner of the Mega Millions lottery, I’d lodge with my extended family on Sunset Key in a posh rental home (Scroll up to see Header Photo. Nice, huh?) Until then, I’ll stay at the Grand.

Continental Breakfast

Here are my top ten reasons why I think you’d be a satisfied guest:

10. clean, comfortable efficiency suite for a reasonable rate

9.  five blocks from Duval–not too close, and not too far from all the action

8. Conch Cruisers onsite for rent ($10 per day, vs. $15 one way taxi ride w/tip)

7. breezy bike ride to all the attractions–beaches, eateries, and bars

6. complimentary continental breakfast and water cooler

5. comfy hammock for two, to make wishes on stars as you cuddle

4. residential neighborhood that makes you feel part of local Key West life

3. excellent, personalized customer service (Derek is an all-around great guy and manager. )

2. the carefree bike ride back to your home-away-from-home each night

1. a serene escape from daily life–no clock watching. A perfect way for  Livin’ on Key West Time.

What little gem of a place have you kept to yourself? Divulge your secrets now, and free your conscience. It feels good, I promise!

Livin’ on Key West Time

January 30, 2012

Do you find that you’re always racing to get things done? Whether you commute to work, chauffeur the kids, have work deadlines or errands to run, the clock is your task master. You may be known to say things like, “If only there were more than twenty-four hours in a day,” “I have to put out the biggest fire first,” “You want to do WHAT when?” and your all-time favorite (with only a hint of sarcasm, of course), “Sure I can get that done in my FREE time.”

If this sounds like your life, then this Magarita Moment is for you. C’mon, kick back and relax. All those chores will still be waiting four-and-a-half minutes from now, right?

If you didn’t have to run off just yet, please share your ideas for saving time or using it effectively. That would be really helpful, you know, because I just spent an entire weekend playing with Windows Movie Maker and I have a lot of work to catch up on now.  🙂

Key West Historic Seaport

January 9, 2012

Lands End Street at KW Historic Seaport

During daylight hours, Key West is all about sun and sea. You can soak in some rays at one its beaches, and rent a kayak or jet ski if you have the energy. For a bit more monetary and vacation hour investment, you can hire a charter boat to go backcountry or offshore fishing. If you want an even closer look at the vast array of ocean life, this tropical island offers snorkling and scuba diving opportunities–from novice outings steps away from the beach to challenging shipwreck dives. When you’ve done all that, but still want the ambiance of marina life, my suggestion would be to walk or bike ride to Key West’s Historic Seaport.

To reach this renovated section of Old Town, trek to Lower Duval, turn right on Front Street and travel east until you hit Margaret Street. Here’s a little history, according to Florida State Tourism Board, if you’re interested:

Formerly known as Key West Bight, this once seedy piece of prime waterfront real estate was where shrimpers, spongers, and turtle traders came to unload their daily catch, tell tall tales of the sea, quaff a few brews, and just generally hang out. With the relocation of the shrimp boats to Stock Island and the demise of sponging and turtle hunting, this area has undergone a complete metamorphosis. In January 1999 it was officially opened as the Key West Historic Seaport and HarborWalk. Tall ships still tie up here, but so do million-dollar yachts.

Key West Marina

In addition to being home of the city marina, with charter boats, ferries, and other assorted watercraft, Historic Seaport has hundreds of shops and a number of Old Town’s famous restaurants. If you bike here, be sure to lock up your Conch Cruiser at one of the Lands End racks before taking a stroll.  The half-mile Harbor Walk that stretches between Grinnell and Greene is for pedestrians only. That’s fine though, because you’ll enjoy stopping often to see the sights–including hungry fish who will readily eat your restaurant leftovers.

Speaking of restaurants, you may want to eat at the famous A&B Lobster House, the Half Shell Clam Bar, Bo’s Fish Wagon or Turtle Kraals while you’re in the vicinity. My husband and I took our fresh catch to Turtle Kraals and were thrilled with the results. We returned later that week for happy hour and took advantage of their Tower Bar, where we were served appetizers and cocktails while enjoying the magnificent view. We watched tourists returning with their catch, locals cleaning their boats, and glassbottom boats unloading their passengers. One of our favorite activities that evening was participating in the turtle races.

Getting Ready for the Race

If you arrive at Turtle Kraals on a turtle race evening, ask for a slip from one of the servers. On the slip will be a number 1-4. At 6 PM, take your drink outside and root on your turtle. Hopefully you’ll be one of the people with the slip number matching the winning turtle. (If not, it’s still a lot of fun to watch.) Winners select a key with a number. The jackpot was up to $400 the night we were there, but it may be lower or higher depending on how long it’s been since someone has won the night you participate. Each person then has the option to try opening the treasure chest with the key. Sometimes the emcee also gives another option, such as trading the key for a mystery gift or a known prize. The night we were there, the prizes included restaurant gift certificates and merchandise from its store.

To work off your meal, you may want to browse through a few of the many boutiques and street vendors located in Historic Seaport. My sweet husband once bought me the beautiful silver bracelet below. (Click on the photo for more information, if you’re interested.) This past getaway, we bought a dolphin bracelet to thank our 20-year-old for helping out with her little brother back at home. I’d highly recommend this store for its quality and unique offerings.

So, if you ever get a chance to travel to the southernmost point of the continental U.S., consider trekking off Duval Street for breathtaking views, great food, free fun, and maybe even a bauble or two. I hope you’ve enjoyed this Margarita Moment. May your week be full of warmth and sunshine–in your memories if not your locale.

Another view of Key West Marina

I’d love to hear from you:

What memories warm your heart on cold, winter days?

Duval Street, Key West

November 28, 2011

Pose with Jack Sparrow on Duval

You’ll see it all on Duval. If I were a slogan-writer, that’s how I’d refer to the main thoroughfare in Old Town, Key West, a road that stretches approximately two miles southeast to northwest on the western side of Bone Island.

Duval Street is where the cruise ship tourists stroll, the Fantasy Fest participants parade, the pubbers crawl,  and the chickens roam. Some of the unusual sights I’ve seen are pirates, performing animals, transvestites, and body-painted tourists. Once, I even saw a man on a leash.

A Biking Town

A constant hum of scooters, conch cruisers, pedi-cabs, pink taxis, motorcycles, and cars fills this street, joining the Conch Train and Ghost Train tours that chug through periodically, day and night.

Duval Street is split into Upper and Lower Duval. To keep it simple, remember that the lower the street number, the closer to Lower Duval you are. At the beginning of Lower Duval is Mallory Square, renowned site of beautiful sunsets and free nightly street performances on the Gulf of Mexico.

We especially like watching Dominic the Cat Man whenever we attend Sunset Celebration.

A tamer storefront

Like the island’s peoples, stores along Duval Street are eclectic. You’ll find mom-and-pop grocery stores and smoke shops sandwiched between big-name stores such as The Gap and Coach. There are endless t-shirt shops here as well, with storefront displays of tacky silkscreen art and the occasional marijuana paraphenalia.

Sloppy Joe’s of Key West

Lower Duval is where the famous Sloppy Joe’s and numerous other bars are located. We enjoy Hogs Breath Saloon for its hogaritia, a potent version of a margarita, and its live music. Irish Kevin’s is the bar to visit for raunchy versions of your favorite songs. There are also piano bars, sports bars, clothing optional, and upscale martini bars. Key West’s Smallest Bar, with its two stools, is a proud resident of this famous street.

As you travel toward what I refer to as mid-Duval, a variety of aromas will whet your appetitie. We’ve enjoyed tapas at 915, Sunday brunch at Croissants de France, and American cuisine at Fogerty’s. If you crave ice cream, frozen yogurt, or smoothies, walk or bike a few blocks until you spy a snack shop that suits your desire. Jimmy Buffett fans attending the 35th Parrothead convention a few weeks ago had the surprise of a lifetime when he performed an impromptu concert for them outside the Key West Margaritaville at 500 Duval Street. Check out this concert video courtesy of YouTube:

I wouldn’t consider myself a Parrothead and I don’t generally like crowds, but I would’ve really liked to have been in Key West for that experience.

Upper Duval is at the southeast end of the street where you’ll find the Southernmost Hotel, including a tiki bar/restaurant and beach on the Atlantic Ocean. The Key West Butterfly Conservatory , one of Old Town’s must-see attractions, is on Upper Duval, too. This end has plentiful window shopping opportunities, with its beautiful art galleries, jewelry stores, and other specialty shops.

You never know what you’re going to see on Key West’s Duval Street, but I can almost guarantee you’ll come home with a story or two. Join me here every Monday for a Margarita Moment where I’ll be sure to share another of mine. Until then, enjoy each day doing what you love.

Do you have any Duval Street stories to share? Or questions for me? I’d be happy to answer questions, or research as necessary.