About Key West, United States
Key West is known in Spanish as Cayo Hueso, and it is the southernmost part of the contiguous 48 states, located even closer to Havana, in Cuba, than than to Miami. During the Spanish conquest and colonization, explorer Juan Ponce de León, known for his expeditions in search of the fountain of youth, found this island full skeletons of the inhabitants, since they used it as a cemetery.
Like most of the New World's islands, Key West has been the stage of pirate legends and hidden treasures; centuries later, it became famous for being a place for relaxation used by several US presidents, who come to enjoy its tropical climate and isolation, having a single road that links with Miami and the rest of the United States. This island has become an exclusive destination in South Florida for snorkeling lovers and who are looking for beaches and quiet seaside places.
Most tourist attractions can be found in Old Town, the historic center of the city, where buildings that date back to late 19th and the early 20th century, are still preserved. One of the most famous buildings is The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where this renowned American writer, author of The Old Man and the Sea, lived for many years; it is today a beautiful place open to the public, which can be used to celebrate weddings.
Key West also features Duval Street, which crosses the island from north to south, up to the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, on a road full of shops, bars, and restaurants. On the north side of this street you can find Mallory Square, adjacent to the cruise port, which annually hosts the Sunset Celebration, an art and entertainment fair.
***The official currency of the United States is the US Dollar (USD).
