Now that 2017 has arrived and the excitement of the festive season is over, don’t just sink into the traditional post-holiday rut. Instead, start planning a Florida Keys escape from winter’s hard-to-bear weather and monotonous routine. Because in the subtropical island chain, ice — greeted with dread in wintry locales — can only be found in tall cool drinks (ideally sipped beachside).
Why do I live in Key West? I wanted a home with warm year-round weather, an LGBT-friendly community and the option to be car-free. I can walk and bike to most places on our island in my shorts and flip-flops — and I enjoy the reactions when I tell people I’ve never owned a car.
Don't leave behind the Florida Keys' easygoing attitude or laid-back approach to living when your vacation ends. Instead, with a little thought and imagination, you can savor it throughout the new year (and beyond!).
In the Florida Keys & Key West, the holiday season is welcomed with great fanfare, festivities, and unique island flair. But for those who aren't lucky enough to be celebrating in the island chain, "Santa Keys" has dreamed up a special surprise. Discover his "gift" -- and have a joyful and meaningful holiday.
For visitors who wonder how Key Westers live — and what lies behind their houses’ white picket fences, historic facades and gleaming front doors — home tours scheduled for December, January, February and March provide a rare chance to find out.
Key West’s wide array of entertainment — throughout the night, into the wee hours and all day, every day — means visitors can enjoy theater and music performances, book on-the-water excursions, meet new friends for dining or drinks, attend a drag show, simply “chillax” in the subtropical surroundings and much more.
For Morgan Rudluff, Key West’s third annual International Sand Art Competition offered a personal catharsis. For Rusty Croft and Abe Waterman, it provided an opportunity for thought-provoking social commentary. And for spectators watching six artists carve sand at the beachside challenge, it illustrated a triumph of passionate creativity.
When counting blessings in Key West, the list usually includes the year-round warm climate, genuinely caring community, “One Human Family” philosophy that promotes equality for all, lively arts and entertainment calendar, and beautiful natural surroundings -- but the Thanksgiving season provides a reason for some extra reflection and gratitude.
A unique subtropical version of the classic ballet “The Nutcracker” awaits holiday-loving audiences Dec. 10-18 in Key West, flavored with characters and sets that spotlight the island’s colorful history, magnificent coral reef environment and even quirky free-roaming local roosters. “Nutcracker Key West” combines 15 professional dancers from around the world with dozens of local children and adults — all passionate about using their talents to bring the beloved story to life.
Instead of anticipating holidays filled with shivery winter chill, imagine indulging in a December getaway to balmy Key West. That’s right — a sun-splashed holiday season, alive with warmth and cheer, is on tap in the subtropical island city.