Thursday – 12 December 2013 – Key West, Florida, USA
Our last port of call was Key West, Florida. For many years Key West was known for its isolation, mild climate, and charm. While the climate remains, the cruise industry has contributed to the loss of the other two factors. Nevertheless, we had a very nice relaxing day in port and even got in about six miles of walking.
After a delayed clearance by the US Authorities (who never forget or forgive), Barbara and I ventured out for a walk to the traditional center of town, the intersection of Duval and Front streets. The Diamond International store was on one side, and crowds of 20-somethings were drinking beer as they walked around looking for yet another early morning bar. One group of young men wore tee-shirts reading, "Jason's Bachelors Party/Prepare to Start Your Liver". We noticed that the iconic "Conch Train" tram ticket booth did not list the prices. Neither did any other of the well-known tourist attractions. Perhaps the tourist industry in the self-named, Conch Republic, counts on the less sophisticated mass market cruise ship passengers and those young visitors who have already started their livers.
We avoided the more touristy part of town—which consisted of the entire island wide length of Duval Street—to spare ourselves of the many bars where strip shows and/or loud live music were already in swing and instead ventured to the still quite lovely adjacent streets. We walked to the end of US Route 1 to take the required pictures of each other, including at many of the various places indicated as the "Most Southern Point in the Continental USA". We were relieved to see that Hemingway's House was still intact, although we did not spot any of the descendants of the famous high living author's six toed cats. So it seems Key West's reputation for its large percentage of characters was still intact as well. I concluded that Key West might be characterized as quite similar to New Orleans but now without the history, the charm, the great food, or the music. Save the long drive from Miami and stay at one of the nearer keys. You'll thank me.
We sailed out in early evening as crowds gathered awaited the nightly sunset drunken debauch in Mallory Square, completing what turned out to be a most enjoyable and relaxing cruise despite some less than perfect ports. Did I mention the huge suite and attentive butler?
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