Cinema in the tropics at the TROPIC

On those hot steamy days, when you just need a break from the heat, it is a treat to visit the islands local cinema, the Tropic Cinema.  The Tropic, as locals call it, is small town cinema like the good ol' days.  For one thing it is clean; your feet do not stick to the floors and you will not find pieces of gum stuck to the bottom of your chair.  The theater is run by the citizens, everyone knows everyone, they are genuinely happy to serve you, offering fresh coffee, wines and an assortment of delectables at the 'snack bar'.   Best of all, when you sit down to enjoy your show, you are not inundated with commercials, constant, obnoxious and insulting.   The movie selections are various, many are the newest independent films as well as some of the box office hits that are more than special effects and big names.  The Tropic also picks great family films and have theme weeks where you can see old time favorites, for example all the  James Bond flicks, silent movies or nature films etc. Visiting the Tropic is a special treat and a little glimmer into a part of Key West that many visitors may not see.  Get out of the hot sun, take in a matinee while sipping wine and munching on chocolate covered almonds.  It takes you back to an era when going to the movies was enjoyable, civilized and affordable!  See you there!  For show times visit http://www.tropiccinema.com/main.html.

Royal Poinciana Season

Many comment that they 'miss the change of seasons' in the Keys, and that there are only two seasons  the 'tourist season' and the 'slow season'.  This is not true.  Although subtle, the Keys are graced with various seasons.   Take for example the blooming of the Royal Poinciana trees.  This typically happens in May or early June.  It is easy to realize why these trees are nick named the Flame Tree.  The bright blooms burst into various oranges and vibrant reds leaving the tree aflame.  They are particularly stunning on a clear blue day when the vivid oranges contrast against the crystal blue sky.  During this season locals enjoy taking a trip to the top of La Concha Hotel (the highest in town).  It is a great adventure to ride the five floors in the grand old elevator, all the way to the roof of the hotel where they have an open air patio.  From here you can see the entire island, and when the Royal Poinciana trees are in bloom it is truly a magnificent sight. If you visit during sunset, you can enjoy a cocktail from the open air bar, take in the sunset and cherish the stunning island view, ablaze in Poinciana blooms. The La Concha Hotel is located at 430 Duval Street.

Schooner Adirondack III

Although many leave the island as the days get steamy, others relish this time of year to get out on the water, take a sail, go snorkeling or take advantage of grouper season. The seas are tranquil and invitingly warm and clear.  While enjoying the summer season in Key West, it is well worth it to take a boat trip and enjoy the beauty that the island waters have to offer.  Taking a sail on the Schooner Adirondack III, is truly a way to top off your vacation. This elegant, 80-foot, 1890’s-style pilot schooner is a gem in the Key West Fleet.  The Schooner features plenty of seating, teak decks and impressive mahogany trim.  They offer nightly sunset sails with beer, wine and champagne and the crew go out of their way to make your sail relaxing and fun.  The  Schooner Adirondack III also offers stargazer sails, moonlit sails and more. Check with your concierge for information and visit www.sail-keywest.com
 

Conga Down Duval Street

Revelers in Cuban attire are to conga from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico Friday night, May 25, 8pm,  to celebrate Key West's rich and colorful Cuban heritage. Located just 90 miles from Cuba, Key West was the site of a flourishing cigar industry in the mid to late 1800s, when the island city welcomed thousands of Cuban immigrants seeking greater personal and political freedom. The conga line recognizes the vibrant culture those people brought with them to Key West. Led by the Comparsa Key West dance troupe, the conga line is to step off at 8 p.m. and proceed down mile-long Duval Street from the ocean to the gulf. Members of the public are invited to join the fun and dance down Duval with the troupe.  Conga celebrants are to wind up at El Meson de Pepe, 410 Wall St. at Mallory Square, for a lively Latin dance party beginning at 9:30 p.m.  Dancing under the stars to Latin Music is a fabulous way feel the essence of Key West. Admission to the dance party is free.  El Meson De Pepe has the best Mojitos in town. See you there! Event information: 305-294-7618

Sunday Jazz in the Gardens

Summer is upon us on our little island.  The Royal Poinciana trees are starting to bloom and days are steamy.  If you are in the mood for music to go with the heat, there is no better place to be on a hot May Sunday afternoon than sitting in a tropical garden listening to jazz while sipping a Martini- shaken, not stirred.  The Gardens Hotel is a grand old home built in the 1800's surrounded by lush tropical foliage abundant with fountains, birds and giant Spanish earthen ware jars. Every Sunday afternoon at 5:30pm the Gardens Hotel offers jazz in the gardens.  The Gardens Hotel is an easy walk or bike ride from the Mermaid & The Alligator and an afternoon of jazz is a lovely way to spend a sultry Key West afternoon. For more information go to www.gardenshotel.com.