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Keys Traveler
Vol. 4, No. 9 Travel News From The Florida Keys & Key West July 2008
This "Green Scene" story spotlights an environmentally focused attraction, event, person or place that enriches the Florida Keys.

Paddle Through the Unspoiled Waters
Of the Florida Keys Backcountry

Paddle a kayak through the backcountry waters of the
Florida Keys, and you'll see one of the world's most
diverse marine life ecosystems. The quiet, shallow back-
water region of flats and mangrove islands has inspired
many naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts to combine
environmental tourism with the sport of sea kayaking.

Not easily accessible to boat traffic, the backcountry area is largely untraveled, unspoiled and teeming with fascinating plant and animal life. Avian inhabitants include roseate spoonbills, osprey, great white herons and even some bald eagles. The roots of the tangled mangroves are a great place to spot young grouper, lobster and barracuda, while the sponge flats are home to bright-colored sponges and soft corals.

Begin the journey by clicking here.
Key Largo Food and Wine Fest to Tantalize Connoisseurs Aug. 1-9
Set on an island known for its bountiful tropical fruit, fresh snapper, tuna, mahi-mahi, shrimp and lobster, the nine-day Key Largo Food and Wine Fest incorporates a multifaceted menu of 33 events. To savor the flavors, click here.
Mel Fisher Days to Honor Legendary Shipwreck Salvor July 17-20
The late Mel Fisher, one of the 20th century's best-known shipwreck salvors, is to be honored with a Key West festival that also commemorates the 23rd anniversary of his most famous find. Join the celebration by clicking here.
Bring on the Drawn Butter for Lobsterfest
A hearty appetite and a fondness for lobsters are all that's required of attendees during the 12th annual Key West Lobsterfest, a celebration of Florida's clawless lobster set for Friday through Sunday, Aug. 8-10. For details, click here.
ARTS & CULTURE
A book signing by author/illustrator Edward Hemingway and the culmination of the renowned Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition highlight Hemingway Days' literary menu. Click here.
DIVING
A multi-agency safe diving initiative designed to enhance sport diving and boating safety is to be highlighted at the Lobster Rodeo & Dive Safety Expo set for Sunday, July 27. Click here.
FISHING
Summer tournaments abound from Key Largo to Key West, keeping angling aficionados busy targeting dolphin, permit, bonefish, tarpon and the ever-elusive marlin. For specifics, click here.
"KEYS VOICES"
Patti Stanley, owner of Island Villa Properties, has provided locations for the film Red Dragon and reality show Platinum Weddings. Meet her by clicking here.
July 4
all Keys
Fourth of July in the Florida Keys
Click here to find out where the parades and fireworks celebrations will be held from Key Largo to Key West!
July 12
in Big Pine &
the Lower Keys
24th Annual Underwater Music Festival
A quirky concert broadcast underwater for divers, snorkelers and the occasional mermaid emphasizes reef preservation. The submerged songfest is held at Looe Key Reef in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Click here.
July 15-20
in Key West
Hemingway Days
The 28th celebration of the legendary author's work and lifestyle features literary readings, a theatrical premiere, short story competition, fishing tournament, Sloppy Joe's Look-Alike Contest and a pre-birthday "party" commemorating Ernest's July 21st birthday. Click here.
July 16-19
in Key West
Drambuie Key West Marlin Tournament
Anglers seek the mightiest of offshore species in this hard-fought summer challenge that offers $250,000 in available cash prizes. Click here.
July 19
in Key Largo
Great Annual Fish Count - Divers & Snorkelers Welcome!
Join the Reef Environmental Education Foundation's international eco-event where volunteer divers and snorkelers assist in identifying and documenting fish diversity and population trends. Click here.
Aug. 15-18
in Islamorada
Islamorada Swordfish Tournament
Anglers are to compete to catch swordfish, a fish species that has recovered to healthy populations off the Keys. The modified release tournament benefits the International Game Fish Association. Call (305) 282-1006.
Sept. 25-28
in Marathon
Marathon International Bonefish Tournament
Some of the best bonefish anglers anywhere are to stalk the ghost of the flats in this all-release spin and fly event. Call (305) 743-7368.
Sept. 26-28
in Marathon
Florida Keys Birding & Wildlife Festival
The peak of the fall birding season, this event includes presentations, educational field trips focusing on conservation as they relate to Keys birds and wildlife, and an environmental fair. Click here.
Oct. 17-26
in Key West
Fantasy Fest
An outrageous, 10-day celebration featuring costume competitions, promenades, street fairs and a grand parade with marching groups and lavish floats. This year, Fantasy Fest takes aim at America's upcoming presidential election with the theme "Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals." Click here to cast your ballot for fun!
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