Key West bed and breakfast - Florida
I just got back from Key West and let me tell you, it is really beautiful this time of year. Key West is a little tourist trappy if you know what I mean, but it is also very interesting and historic as well. Key West is as far South as you can go before falling off the United States, which in and of itself makes it an interesting destination. Add to that the laid back atmosphere, the roosters that roam the Key freely, and all the quirky characters you are bound to meet and you can see why it is a popular tourist destination, not to mention the lovely Caribbean coast weather and it is hard to go wrong.
I stayed at a bed and breakfast this time which is something I always enjoy if I can get a deal. Bed and breakfast inns offer a homespun atmosphere, just like bringing your luggage to a strangers home and flopping on their bed, good stuff. Many offer breakfast and sometimes even a light lunch or dinner included, especially if you get to know the owners. They won't be strangers long, and will make you feel right at home most of the time. I have noticed the types of people that start bed and breakfast inns seem to really love people and most would open their doors to travelers for free if this wasn't America.
If you drive from Miami to Key West be prepared. The speed limit is like 20 judging from the way people drive, and even though it is a short number of miles, it can take a while to get there. At least it is a pretty drive if you know how to swim, otherwise you will have some white knuckles on the way. When you get there, check into your bed and breakfast, find a nice restaurant, and gorge out on some of the best seafood you will ever taste. Here are some hotels and bed and breakfast inns I found that are top shelf.
Atlantis House at 1401 Atlantic Blvd.; Key West, FL 33040 Call : (800) 615-9214 - It is no wonder this is the place most people want to go in Key West if they can afford it. It is by no means the cheapest hotel in Key West, but they do have specials now and again and it is certainly one of the best places to stay if you can. The hotel is parked right on the ocean with spectacular views and on top of that has a park and wildlife habitat right next door. I really like the suites at this hotel for the hot tubs in room for romantic evenings and the lovely grounds with lush beautiful gardens and a magnificent sun deck so you can soak up all those southern rays. This hotel is just what the doctor ordered to relieve stress from a tough work schedule.
Grand Guest House at 1116 Grinnell St.; Key West, FL 33040 Phone : (888) 947-2630 - On the other end of the spectrum, this is a great place for budget travelers and has been rated so time and again by major travel magazines. It is smack dab in the middle of Old Town, right where you want to be for the action. The rooms are traditionally decorated like any good "Paradise" themed hotel should be and is fun and inviting. The rooms have private entrances and the hotel has a cute garden if you plan on actually spending some time at the hotel.
The Conch House - 625 Truman Ave.; Key West, FL 33040 Call : (800) 207-5806 -Somewhere in the middle is this ancient inn which is actually listed as a historic landmark. This seems a little more old world style (out of date) but if you are into the antique and history thing, this may be your place. Surprisingly, this inn looks more like something out of England than the Caribbean. The style is more Victorian, with tall ceilings, wood floors, and cut up rooms. Again, not for everyone, but it's an interesting place nonetheless. I would stay there if I they had a special or something.
Key West Bed and Breakfast - 415 William St.; Key West, FL 33040 Call : (305) 296-7274 - Another old Victorian style Inn this one located in Old Town. I actually think this inn exemplifies the Key West ethos due to its quirky furniture and artwork, all of which was done by local artists (that should tell you a lot.) It is a cute little place with a nice front porch you can relax on and drink a libre' or just check out the garden if you are ever actually at the hotel while you are awake.
Island City House Hotel - 411 William St.; Key West, FL 33040; Call : (800) 634-8230 - This is another one of the bed and breakfast inns I was considering. It is another old place, but seems to have a nicer atmosphere and is more inviting than some of the others. It only has 12 suites, so I really like that intimate feel and has the old style antique furnishings again, if you are into that type of thing. It has beautiful gardens and even a swimming pool if you don't like the ocean.
Key West Harbor Inn - 219 Elizabeth St.; Key West, FL 33040 Call : (800) 608-6569 - This inn is in the harbor area and is more modern than some of the other inns. If you like a little more up to date feel, this might be just the ticket. Some of the rooms have direct ocean views (Ask before booking.) I really dig that this inn makes you feel at home by offering not only breakfast, but cocktails and snacks for happy hour as well.
These are just a sampling of the inns and hotels available, the ones that I have found to be good for the money you pay. That doesn't mean they are cheap, but they are indeed wonderful hotels and inns each one. If money is no object, the Atlantis would be my first pick, but if it was my first time to Key West and I really didn't know if it was my kind of town or not, I would probably start off at the Grand. Then, if you find Key West is to your liking, you can always splurge for the top of the line hotel for your next anniversary or special occasion. Have fun!