adventures in the keys (Love in the City of Lights)

Admittedly, I’ve seen much more of the world than of my own homeland. My dream of driving cross-country to experience what is truly America remains to be realized. One day. For the time being my American adventures remain in New York and Florida with family and friends. During our recent trip to the Sunshine State, we did have the good fortune to take a mini road trip to the Florida Keys, along with my mom and her husband, final destination Key West.

Our first stop after nearly 3 hours of driving was just past Key Largo, which left much to be desired with it’s multitudinous strip malls and pharmacy’s, a kitschy fish restaurant in Islamorada. Savouring the catch of the day (and not thinking too much about which day it was actually caught), we continued on our way until we reached our destination for the night in nearby Marathon.

Our secluded refuge was Tranquility Bay Resort, also home to the iguanas.

And tranquil it was, surrounded by clear blue stillness.

That evening we experienced a magical sunset along the 7-mile bridge… that alone worth the drive.

And still in time to sit beneath the glowing sky with a bottle of French wine.

The following morning we got back on the road, crossed the infamous bridge and made our way to Key West. First stop, Hemingway’s House. Not to mention his cats, all 45 of them.

Here is one of the 6-toed wonders, drinking from a urinal Hemingway ‘installed’ in his garden.

We also explored the infamous brothel Blue Heaven, where Hemingway spent many an evening.

After carousing the scenic town and indulging in key lime pie like proper tourists, we headed south.

To the southernmost tip of the USA. Last stop before the long drive home.

Guided by the setting sun alongside the historic Bahia Honda Rail Bridge… filled with memories.