Guide to Key West

'Laid back yet lively, Key West has a bohemian personality all of its own. Follow in the footsteps of artists, writers and hippies and join in fun of sunset parties.'

Clinging to the tip of a long tail of coral keys at the southernmost point of the USA, Key West is closer to Cuba than it is to Miami. Perhaps that's why this small island has such a knack for letting its hair down and having fun. Every evening Mallory Square swings into action to celebrate the sun going down. Street performers, fire-eaters, unicyclists and mime artists all congregate to entertain – if you manage to catch the sun going down that's a bonus! And all sorts of festivals liven up the annual calendar. In July hundreds of bearded men emerge from nowhere to compete for the Hemingway Lookalike trophy, whilst in October Fantasy Fest takes over the streets for 10 days with outrageous costume competitions, street fairs and parades. Start in the Old Town, where pastel, Caribbean-style architecture forms a backdrop for restaurants, bars and general revelry. Hop aboard the Conch Train Tour or the Old Town Trolley for a sightseeing tour, or simply slip on your sandals and start walking. Drop in on Hemingway's home in Whitehead Street to hear stories of his wives, his chandeliers and his six-toed cats - the descendants of which might join you on the tour. Climb to the top of the lighthouse Museum to look down over Key West. Or hide away in the lush palms and vibrant orchids in Nancy Forrester's Secret Garden. When you've had your fill of sightseeing, go sailing, snorkelling or fishing in the sparkling seas surrounding the island. And at the end of the day, choose between an eclectic choice of restaurants ranging from Cuban eateries to delectable waterfront seafood restaurants.

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