Key West, FL

Who doesn’t like a Sloppy Joe sandwich? We have them every once in a while at home and usually overeat. When you get to Key West you really must visit Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval Street - you can’t miss it. And it really is worth a visit for lunch or for dinner. We went back - twice - and had (of course) a couple of Sloppy Joes.

Entertainment, great menu and reasonable prices. This can also be a great place to hang out - or for hubby to hang out while wifey goes shopping.

When walking around in the lower latitudes the sun is [most likely] a LOT stronger than wherever you normally live.

So, to be on the safe side, many people do as the Conchs do, and wear head protection. That head covering should be light and well-ventilated. A straw hat fills the bill.

Families can find plenty of places to stay in Key West. Although some lodging facilities prefer adults, many offer kid-friendly environments. Key West has much to offer to families. Kids and parents can bike around town, splash in the Atlantic Ocean and in the Gulf of Mexico, check out all the shops on Duval Street, watch the crazy entertainers at Mallory Square at sunset, find a cool place for supper, and play games before bed.

We have selected a few places that enjoy having kids around. There are many more from which to choose. There are a number of family-style lodging options in New Town, close to the entrance of the city, and a little less expensive. Various others are in historic Old Town.

• Best Western Key Ambassador - 3755 S. Roosevelt Boulevard
• Quality Inn Resort - 3850 N. Roosevelt Boulevard
• Eden House - 1015 Fleming Street
• Hilton Key West - 245 Front Street

If your choice of lodging is a bed and breakfast, you’re in luck. Key West is filled to the brim with B&B. There is a bed and breakfast to meet anyone’s desires.Most B&B are scattered around Old Town. Many of the original gingerbread houses have been lovingly restored into guest lodging. The Blue Parrot Inn is a Bahamian-style residence built in 1884. The Heron House dates from 1856. Avalon is close to the southernmost point of the U.S. and a skip to the beach. Duval House is in the center of the action.

• Avalon - 1317 Duval Street
• Heron House - 512 Simonton Street
• Blue Parrot Inn - 916 Elizabeth Street
• Duval House - Junction Truman & Duval Streets