Key Largo; Key West

We were pleasantly surprised when we arrived at the RV Park in Key Largo. We were assigned a “camp” spot right on the water, with a tiki hut, coconut tree, deck, and boat dock all set up. Too bad we don’t have a boat we could go out into the ocean right from here! So after getting set up and exploring the area, we sat on our deck and watched the sun go down over the water with our wine and cheese. Although it was a bit cooler than normal, it still had that tropical feel.

The next day we drove to Key West – about 100 miles from Key Largo. It was amazing to see the various islands all connected by bridges. The Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean were on either side of us all the way, even if we couldn’t always see them because of the buildings in the way part of the time. The water was a beautiful blue-green. We saw more marinas, boats for sale, and people fishing than I’ve ever seen.

We were ready for lunch by the time we got to Key West, and had been told there were 300 restaurants on that small part of the island. We found a place on the marina that was just great. I remembered hearing when we were in Maine that lobsters were also raised in Florida, although they weren’t supposed to be as good as in Maine. So, of course, when I saw lobster tail on our lunch menu in Key West, I had to decide for myself! Since I haven’t had enough lobster to be a critic, I thought it was as good as any I’ve had! I guess I would order lobster (at a reasonable price) just about anywhere to do the taste test!

We enjoyed walking around Key West – the most south eastern part of our trip. We went into the Audobon House and Gardens, built in the late 1800’s. Although Mr. Audobon didn’t actually live in that house, he did many of his bird drawings or floral pictures from that area. We also learned that life wasn’t easy in that area in earlier days. Hard to get fresh water. Hurricanes were destructive, including wiping out the railroad that was the first connection for the islands more than once. We learned that the local people can tell when hurricanes are coming because of the birds start leaving.

Another day we went to a State Park nearby, and went on a snorkeling boat tour over the coral reefs. It was lovely with the beautiful fish, the blue-green water. Saw several baricuda along with the many smaller, colorful fish. John is a much better swimmer than I am, but somehow I am always ready for a snorkeling outing when available!

We are continually in awe of God’s amazing diversity of creation, whether under water, on ground, or in the air, or outer limits of space. What a blessing to be able to enjoy this spectacular world.