Beat the Caribbean Blues in the Tropical Oasis that is Key West

This 7-square-mile island feels like a beautiful tropical oasis. It’s allure stems not just from beautiful beaches and palm trees, but from the classical Caribbean homes and its eccentric vibes. It’s easy to find your groove in Key West—no matter where your interests lie. As in other parts of the Keys, nature plays a starring role here, with some breathtaking sunsets—cause for nightly celebration down on Mallory Square. Download the Key West Travel Guide and Offline Map and prepare for your trip down Highway One!

1.     Mallory Square

The fun begins in the hours leading to dusk where you’ll witness every single oddity and eccentric character on the island. Have a beer. And a conch fritter, and take a front-row seat to the music-filled mayhem. Once sunset arrives, all eyes turn to the water; and the showing comes crashing to an end shortly after the streaks of post-sunset gold, amber and lilac light up the evening sky.

2.     Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

“America’s Southernmost State Park” is home to an impressive fort, built in the mid-1800s that played roles in the American Civil War and in the Spanish-American War. The beach here is the best one Key West has to offer – it has white sand to lounge on (but is rocky in parts), water deep enough to swim in and tropical fish under the waves.

3.     Hemingway House

Key West’s biggest darling, Ernest Hemingway, lived in this gorgeous Spanish Colonial house from 1931 to 1940. Papa moved here in his early 1930s with wife No 2, a Vogue fashion editor and (former) friend of wife No 1 (he left the house when he ran off with wife No 3). The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber and The Green Hills of Africa were produced here, as well as many six-toed cats, whose descendants basically run the grounds.

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Three Things You Must Do While In Tel Aviv, the Mediterranean Manhattan of Israel

Tucked on Israel's Mediterranean coast is one of its major cities, Tel Aviv. It is known for its thousands of remarkable 1930's Bauhaus buildings located in the White City architectural area. Its modern and vibrant cosmopolitan vibe is a stark contrast to its older sibling, Jerusalem, making it a must-visit when you're traveling to Israel. This bustling city always has something up its sleeve for the modern-day traveler. Go surfing at one of the many popular surf spots or go museum hopping and be witness to the countries rich culture and history or even go enjoy a day shopping at its most popular flea market. Whatever you do make sure you have the Tel Aviv Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you on your adventure.

1.      Surfing

Not a lot of people know this, but Tel Aviv is actually a popular surfing spot or locals. With 186 miles of sandy beaches and a sea that is virtually free of seaweed and sharks, it makes for a great spot for surfers. The soft and weak waves may not be for pro-surfers, however, this means it's a great spot for beginners and laid-back surfers. Surfing is also something that you can enjoy no matter what month of the year you visit. Thanks to Israel's mild climate there is ample Summer and Winter surfing to be had.

2.      Flea Market Shopping

Get ready to have your senses tickled at the Jaffa Flea Market. Located just next to Jaffa’s picturesque Old City and ancient Clock Tower, it offers a treasure trove of boutiques, laid-back cafes, pop-up bars, and even outdoor entertainment during the Summer. It is “the Flea Market”, this port-side neighborhood of alleyways, covered walkways and outdoor verandas has been operating for more than 100 years across the same sprawling streets. Open six days a week, from Sunday through Friday, you can get a chance to snag yourself some antiques, handmade, and even secondhand items.

3.      Museum Hopping

Don't let the modernity of Tel Aviv fool you, it is also a country rich in preserving its culture and history. Enjoy a leisurely visit to its numerous museums including the Beit Hatfutsot, whose multimedia exhibits illustrate the history of Jewish communities worldwide. The Eretz Israel Museum covers the country’s archaeology, folklore, and crafts, and even features an on-site excavation of 12th-century-B.C. ruins. In the center of the museum complex rises Tell Qasile, one of the most fascinating and important archaeological sites in the Tel Aviv area.

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