The Conch Republic

At the far southern end of US 1 is the small town of Key West. First discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1513, Key West has had a varied and colorful history. It was fairly deserted until just after the Revolutionary War, when Spain gave it to Juan Pablo Salas, who in turn sold it to American business man John Simonton. After promoting the island to the Navy as a possible base, it became a point of entry to the United States.
With a small population of 'wrecker's', kind of a local pirate, a bit of lawlessness prevailed. These people would lure ships onto the reefs, then claim the cargo. With the legal salvaging of wrecks, the population was one of the wealthiest per capita in the country. Other industries that grew included: sponging, turtle harvesting, and cigar rolling.
In the 1920s, Prohibition gripped the country and more illegal activity helped Key West Thrive, bootlegging. Rum and beer from Cuba and other spirits from the Bahamas. In the 60's it was marijuana. Seem like many people made money in not so legal ways there.
But now for the present. Key West is an easy, if not speedy, way drive from the mainland. The roadway, trestles and bridges make a scenic drive, especially the southern half. Though once there, a car is basically not needed. If driving is not for you, the major lines offer flights directly to the island.
Once in Key West, your options are numerous, from large resorts with spa facilities, to B&Bs in restored cottages. There are plenty of male/female only and clothing optional is quite common. Most of which provide a nice continental breakfast, and some have afternoon Happy Hour. What more can you want, no searching for breakfast, and free drinks? Prices can accommodate a vast array of budgets. As I have gotten older, I prefer the larger resort hotels, favorite being the Hyatt on Front Street. It is convenient to Duval and the waterfront, but secluded at the end of the street.
With the arrival of cruise ships, commercialization has taken over the north end of Duval. While watching the sunset from Mallory Square is still popular, it has a more 'Disneyesque' feel to it than in the past. So head south to experience more of why you headed there.
There are still many of the old favorites drawing in the boys and girls. La te da still has shows and serves food. The patio is a great place to watch people pass. Bourbon Street and the 801 are busy from open til close. One of the more interesting bars is the Green Parrot. Is it gay? straight? whatever? What ever it is, it is still a great place to enjoy Key West as it used to be, laid back and relaxed.
There are the tourist favorites like Hog's Breath and Sloppy Joe's, but they are usually full of people off the cruise ships and can be kind of on the loud side.
Key West has great places to eat. I tend to stay away from the large chains at the north end. A Planet Hollywood is a Planet Hollywood, no matter what town it is in. 7 Fish on the corner of Elizabeth and Olivia is my favorite. The food is great, service superb, feeling is eclectic chic, and dinner will not send you to the poor house. Try the Yellowtail Snapper in Yellow Curry, to die for!! Other favorites are Blue Heaven(named after a type of chicken), Pepe's(oldest restaurant in the Keys) and the Raw Bar at the Turtle Kraals.
If a beach is your destination, hate to tell you, but Key West is not really the place for you. Most of the island is coral and the largest, Smather's is sand from the Bahamas. So if beaching it is what you want, choose Miami or Ft Lauderdale with their miles of powdery sand. If quaint, fairly gay, and lots of fun, Key West is a great place to relax, unwind, and get an all over tan at the pool at your gay guest house. So if this sounds like an experience you would enjoy, call Damron Vacations and speak to one of the experienced agents, and plan you escape to the Conch Republic.