Key West - Southernmost Point of the USA

We left Miami after a bit of shopping at the outlet center (although our trip was cut short due to a power outage at the center). Addition from Flo: 6 1/2 hours was enough for me :D

We drove to our new destination, Key West, via Route 1. Key West is an island-like vacation spot in the southernmost part of Florida and also marks the southernmost point of the continental USA, which is heavily advertised here. The journey here was very beautiful, alternating between water and various keys. The keys are a chain of islands connected by Route 1. When we arrived here, the heavy rain and thunderstorms that accompanied us throughout the four-hour drive stopped. We were warmly welcomed by Pattie, a hotel employee and a true Key West lady. The room is wonderful, and the Caribbean feeling begins right outside the door. It is hotter here than in Miami, but the lower humidity makes it much more bearable. It is 90 miles from here to Cuba. Surrounding us are various palm trees, tropical trees, and lots of sunshine. The wildlife also fascinates us: free-roaming chickens and iguanas are part of the cityscape and a daily sight for the locals. We can leave the car behind, as everything is within walking distance, and if your feet get tired or the midday heat gets too intense, there is a free air-conditioned bus that circulates through the city and comes every 15 minutes.

The city offers a historic harbor, many restaurants, and bars, often not housed in buildings but rather with partially covered counters and tables. Many Americans spend their vacations here. Overall, it is much quieter than Miami, but there is still plenty of partying and drinking in the evenings. Each bar offers live entertainment, and the shops are open late into the night. Many visitors have started drinking heavily since noon and come stumbling towards you. Nevertheless, it is not overcrowded, as it is the low season, so it is very pleasant on the streets.

The southernmost point of the continental USA is marked by a large painted buoy and is probably the most photographed attraction here. In addition, you can book boat trips with various providers, observe and catch exotic fish, and even travel to the nearby Bahamas. But for us, the biggest attraction is the feeling that permeates the city. We also got infected and spent a lot of time in the pool, taking it easy. At around 35 degrees, we enjoy the wet refreshment and the sight of the palm trees.

Tomorrow we need to get up early, as we have a lot planned! We have a three-and-a-half-hour drive ahead of us to the Everglades. Here, we hope to see crocodiles and be somewhat spared from mosquitos. Sunscreen, mosquito spray, and water are already packed. Afterwards, we will continue to Fort Lauderdale, where we will spend the night.