Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 4440 FOCUS - AUGUST 2016 Jonathan van Bilsen is a photographer, author and columnist and can be followed at photosNtravel.com well as dozens of sandal stores and tee shirt outlets. As you venture south, you see less of the tourist stuff and more peace and quiet. If you have the time and are so inclined, take a detour from the high- way and drive through some of the subdivisions where wealthy Floridians live, or where snowbirds rent ocean side abodes. Houses tend to run any- where from half a million for a small bungalow to 2 or 3 million for large palatial properties on the water. Rents are anywhere from $2000 a week and up, and that of course, is in US dollars. To me the final destination was the best, and well worth the trip. The last Key, Key West, is totally different from the rest of the Keys. I would say it is very similar to New Orleans in style, albeit on a smaller scale, complete with an above ground cemetery. I have been to Florida a dozen or so times, but this was my first trek to the lower Keys and I am very glad I made it. There are a number of quaint, bou- tique hotels, but I would suggest finding one as close to Duvall Street as pos- sible. Duvall is the main drag and being able to walk there from your hotel, is a bonus. Parking in Key West is next to impossible to find, and when you eventually locate a spot you will want to leave your car for the duration of your stay. I would say two days is probably enough for most people, and the best way to get a feel for the town is using the Hop On Hop Off service. This gives you an overview of the area, but also provides knowledgeable commentary. For the less touristy types, a walk along Duvall Street can take the better part of an afternoon, especially if you stop frequently for a cold refreshment. There are art stores, displaying the work of local artists and artisans, as well as clothing boutiques, which cater to the summer sunshine theme, with their brightly coloured fabrics. Also many souvenir shops where you can obtain the collection of fridge magnets or tea towel souvenirs for your loved ones back home. Most people spend as much time in bars and restaurants, as they do in the shops. Cuban food is really big, and why not? Key West is less than 150 km from Havana. The beverage of choice is the Mojito, mainly because Ernest Hemmingway lived in Key West for a while, and Floridians have adopted him as their patron saint. A cool place to visit in town is Hemmingway’s house, which is open to the public every day. If you are a beach person head down to Higg’s beach and soak up the sun. Remember to splatter yourself with sunscreen and wear a hat, because the sun will fry you within 10 minutes. Although Boca Chica is a clothing op- tional beach, there are many others for the more modest Canadian travellers. Whether you fly or drive, take a cruise ship or go by bike, Key West Florida is a must on your bucket list. Go West (continued from page 39) There are numerous stately homes in Key West. The Florida Keys have no shortage of places to eat. 158 Casimir Street, Port Perry 905-985-2268 virginia.frew@marlintravel.ca MC TICO #4577532 Follow our world adventures! ‘Like’ us on facebook MARLIN TRAVEL PORT PERRY