Friday, September 10, 2010

Great Finds in the Florida Keys

Ah – The Florida Keys. A tropical paradise at the tip of Florida. The beautiful blue-green waters, the palm trees swaying in the breeze…….what more could you want out of a vacation? I am wrapping up our new Florida Keys Travel Guide (will be out at the end of this month) and wanted to share with you some of our top picks.


The Islander Resort Islamorada, Florida:

Wow. For years, I have driven past the historic Islander landmark and never really gave it a thought as I drove to my other hotel. But, this year, I wanted to give it a try. What a find!!

The Islander Resort is located in Islamorada on the Atlantic Ocean. Recently renovated, it offers some of the best amenities in the Keys. The resort sits on 25 acres of tropical paradise. Enjoy their private white coral sand beach (over 1,300 feet of beach), complete with complimentary lounge chairs. Fish off their 200 foot pier day or night and catch grouper, snapper, flounder, and more (no fishing license required). Take a dip in one of their two Oceanside pools. Thirsty or hungry? Sit at their poolside Tiki Bar overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Interested in watersports? Well, there is an activity hut on their beach where you can rent kayaks, bikes, snorkel equipment, and more.

The accommodations are first rate too. Each room comes with a complete kitchen and a large screened in porch (with a ceiling fan). Grills are scattered throughout the property where you can enjoy grilling out after a relaxing day on the beach. Guests can choose from oceanfront suites or lanai villas. Did I mention you also get a complimentary continental breakfast with your room rate? Plus, no resort fees!!

If you are looking for a first class resort experience in the Florida Keys, with an incredibly friendly staff, then make sure to check out The Islander Resort. Take a look at their website for great package deals throughout the year: www.islanderfloridakeys.com

Sandy’s Café Key West, Florida:

Since Key West is only about 90 miles away from Cuba, prepare to taste one of the best Cuban sandwiches in Florida. Growing up in the Tampa area, I have tasted my fair share of Cuban sandwiches – the La Tropicana in Ybor City being one of the best.

But in the Keys, Sandy’s Café by far serves up the best Cuban Mix sandwiches. Pressed Cuban bread, roasted pork, ham, melted cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes are served up hot and fresh with French fries. Absolute heaven!! Add a cup of Café con Leche and you have a traditional Cuban lunch. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, they serve up traditional Cuban breakfast sandwiches and great entrées too.

Don’t let the location deter you – it’s at the M&M Laundry. Just step up to the counter and place your order. There is no indoor seating and just a few stools at the counter. But hey, drive just a few blocks to the beach and have a picnic.

Location: Sandy’s Café; 1026 White Street; Key West, Florida 33040

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