Florida

Discover a city where real estate titles date back to the kings of Spain. Stroll the palm-lined streets and discover gingerbread mansions, tin-roofed conch houses, the John Audubon House and Ernest Hemingway's home. Walk in the footsteps of Thomas Edison, Lou Gehrig, Harry Truman and Tennessee Williams. Gaze at the fabled treasure of the galleon Atocha. Discover tomorrow's fine art treasures by Key West's well-known and unknown artists.

Only in Key West does the sun shine brightest when it sets. Everyone gathers for the never planned, always varied, Sunset Celebration on the Mallory Dock. Once the sun is safely tucked away by jugglers, mime artists, musicians and street artists, the city moves to a night beat.

The streets, filled with sidewalk cafes, open air bars, legendary pubs and world class restaurants come alive at night. Gourmets and gourmands alike treat their palates to island specialities. Drama, musicals and comedy flourish on the stages of Key West's concert halls.

The island's sea-faring tradition lives on at the renovated historic seaport district known locally as the Key West Bight. Dozens of shrimp boats once called this harbour home. These days the Bight is a popular place to arrange a day on the water, whether you are a diver, fisherman or eco-tourist. Others come just to stroll along the harbour or dine at one of the many restaurants. In this city of fascinating contrasts, you could easily find yourself wanting to let go of mainland hassles forever.