Key West, Florida, USA

Key West is a city and an island of the same name near the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys in Monroe County, Florida. Its subtropical climate and palm-shaded streets attract tourists from around the world, with regular cruise ships docking each day. Duval Street is Key West's tourist epicenter, with the northern end marked by Mallory Square from where beautiful sunsets can be seen. Key West has a number of scenic beaches and some of Florida's best scuba diving, snorkeling and deep-sea fishing. Its tropical nights, Bahamian architecture and warm people make it a popular destination for artists, musicians and a thriving gay community.

Key West is divided into two main districts. Old Town Key West contains many tourist attractions, sights and hotels; and New Town Key West is occupied by mainly businesses and locals. During recent years, much of Key West has been restored, to promote tourism on this popular, charming and somewhat eccentric island, with many other Keys within easy reach of Key West, including Florida's Key Largo and the beautiful Lower Keys.

Things to see and do

* Ernest Hemingway museum
* Duval street and Mallory Square
* Audubon House and Tropical Gardens
* City and Simonton Street Beaches

General information

Cruise Season - May - Sept
Currency - US Dollar (US$)
Language - English
Land Area - 16 square kilometers
Population - 26,000
Electricity - 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
Time - GMT minus five hours
International Country Telephone Code - + 1

Port Location - The cruise terminal is located at Mallory Square at the northern end of Duval street.

Transport Links - Greyhound buses serve Key West with three departures per day to Miami and beyond, stopping at various points along the Keys en route.

Key West International Airport is served by several airlines, though a short runway prevents big jets from landing. Direct flights are available from Atlanta, most major cities in Florida, and also some flights to the Bahamas.

Driving around KW is difficult and parking expensive. Many visitors choose to rent motor scooters, bicycles, or explore on foot. There is also a fairly comprehensive bus system with color-coded lines.