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| At one time it was one of the richest spots in the
U.S. Sailing ships from all over the world would pass Key West on their way to the Caribbean.
More than a few were laden with treasures for trading or gold from Panama. Many ended up on
the extensive reefs that protect the area, and when their hulls were opened up by the sharp
coral, Key West locals came out to rescue the crews and salvage the booty. Since many of the
salvagers were one-time officers of shipping companies in the Cape Cod area, the archetecture here reminds one
of that old New England style. Key West, Florida is a tourist destination crammed with shops, restaurants, museums and beautiful old houses. In three days, four cruise ships called here. Each ship spilled out thousands of folks wearing flower print garb and sporting mayonaise tans. Disneyland type trollies take them on tours around the old part of the island so they can take pictures of people taking pictures of them. Many of the restaurants feature someone singing and playing guitar even in the middle of the day. Several marinas crowd the shores here and there is only one good (but inadequate by Cal. standards) beach. The anchorage area is huge and contains about a hundred boats of all sizes and kinds from all over the world. We had bought cell phones in Panama, and had them programmed for Cingular service here in Florida. Let me tell you. The service in Panama is easy and good. Here it is difficult and poor. Makes you wonder. It's very expensive to live here. I don't know how some people do it. Internet is 8 dollars an hour, dinghy parking is 20 bucks a week and beer is $2.50 in the restaurants, $3.50 to $4.00 in many bars. Every evening a crowd gathers at Mallory Square where various street artists perform music, acrobatics, comedy and art. In this waterfront setting you can watch the sun slowly fade as the big charter schooners sail by packed with Iowa farmers. |
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