The new year is a great time to embrace activities that have a positive impact on the planet. For example, add meaning to a Florida Keys visit by giving back to the island chain. Connect with the earth, ocean and the living things that call the Keys home by dedicating a part of your vacation to a voluntourism activity.
'Twas the night before Christmas in the Florida Keys. And like most people in the balmy subtropical island chain, Santa Keys was doing everything possible to make the season merry and bright. He even planned a special island-style treat for people in colder climates who were craving some Keys warmth and cheer. Do YOU believe in Santa Keys?
Larry Blackburn is a prominent Florida Keys photographer, a fervent supporter of the Keys' "One Human Family" community and a constant presence at special events and fundraisers. Plus he will reign all year as the king of Key West's Fantasy Fest celebration after earning his crown by raising money for a local nonprofit. "Meet" Larry, whose heart is as notable as his height, by reading on.
Former President George H.W. Bush was passionate about catch-and-release fishing in the Florida Keys. His interest in fishing for Keys species such as bonefish, tarpon and permit was so significant that he lent his name to the George Bush/Cheeca Lodge Bonefish Tournament staged in Islamorada. And the time he spent angling in Keys waters revealed a unique and appealing side to his personality.
Discover the seafaring heritage and vibrant coral reef environment of the Florida Keys, blended with a sizeable helping of heartfelt holiday spirit, during performances of the lovely and unforgettable “Nutcracker Key West.” The unique subtropical version of the classic “Nutcracker” ballet is being performed Dec. 7-16 — flavored with characters and sets that celebrate Key West’s colorful history, culture, traditions and even free-roaming roosters.
Super-talented female impersonator Christopher Peterson brings to life dozens of celebrity icons for Key West audiences — including Joan Rivers, Bette Midler, Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe. Christopher developed and stars in his one-man show, EYECONS, at the island's famed La Te Da Cabaret.
Coffee Butler is a Key West treasure. The 90-year-old musician recently released an album with vocalist Cliff Sawyer, backed by a cast of stellar Key West musicians -- a collaboration that has been called a Key West version of the phenomenal Buena Vista Social Club. In words and photographs, guest blogger Ralph De Palma chronicles the story of the album's release.
Whether you’re intrigued by marine mammals, sea turtles, wild birds or the plants that add lushness to the Florida Keys landscape, you can indulge your interest at the island chain’s many environmental attractions. Among them are the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, the Turtle Hospital, Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters and the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden — four "must-visit" spots in the colorful Keys.
Imagine a subtropical island paradise in the continental U.S. where year-round temperatures average 77.8 degrees Fahrenheit. Where LGBTQ travelers are free to be themselves wherever they go, Tennessee Williams helped establish the rich cultural community, and the locals' favorite beach is affectionately nicknamed to salute Elizabeth Taylor. Luckily, that paradise is real — and it’s Key West.
Rachel Bowman, a dedicated pole spear huntress, is the Florida Keys’ only female commercial lionfish fisherman. She spears several thousand lionfish each year, removing as many of the invasive species from Keys waters as she can. Visitors can help the cause by ordering lionfish in local restaurants, where their delicate and delicious light white meat makes them a popular culinary choice.