Hello, fellow sun-seekers! If you're living in or visiting the beautiful Tampa Bay area—whether it’s the bustling streets of Tampa, the artistic vibe of St. Pete, or the cultural shores of Sarasota—you know that we live in paradise. But sometimes, even paradise dwellers need a vacation.
Scott Schofield
Recent Posts
Key West is a place where "Island Time" isn't just a phrase—it's a way of life. While the neon lights of Duval Street have their charm, the true magic of the island lies in its quiet corners, the scent of blooming jasmine, and the steady rhythm of the tide. This guide is for those looking to trade the crowds for calm and find the soulful, relaxed side of the Conch Republic.
The Florida Keys are home to a national treasure: the only living coral reef in the continental United States. This year, Mote Marine Laboratory is inviting locals and visitors alike to step out of the daily grind and into the blue at Ocean Fest, a high-energy, family-friendly celebration of our marine environment.
There’s no better way to enjoy summer than with a getaway to Key West – and no better way to get there than the Key West Express! Ideal for all travelers, Key West welcomes a variety of visitors in search of its fun, funky, fabulous treasures. Anglers, artists, families, retirees, and everyone in between enjoy exploring the island’s rich history, music, food, and culture, along with an endless stream of summertime parties, parades, concerts, tours and more.
It has been a few harrowing weeks in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Through the kindness of friends, strangers, neighbors, first responders & utility workers, everyone has united to make Key West whole again. On October 1st, Key West officially reopened to welcome all to this island paradise.
Sitting centralized to the Mallory Square area and the Key West harbor is the newly rebranded Opal Key Resort and Marina. Is only a block away from the action on Duval Street.
The Key West Garden Club is located at the West Martello Tower, a National Historic site.
The site was originally built as a protector to Fort Taylor, also on Key West but was rendered obsolete before it was completed.
Photo Credit: Averette - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
The month of March brings some of the best weather of the year to South West Florida. While our northern friends are still shoveling snow, here in the Sunshine State we are slathering on the spf 30 and heading to the beach. In the midst of Spring Break and perfect weather falls St. Paddy’s Day, so put on some sunscreen, get your green on and watch a parade!
What does Thomas Edison, mid-February and a 2 week party all have in common? The Edison Festival of Light, of course. Each February the City of Ft Myers recognizes its most famous winter resident, Thomas Alva Edison. He built a sprawling home and laboratory along McGregor Boulevard in 1885. Over the years he also encouraged a number of his friends to make the move south. Henry Ford was his most famous friend who shared the property on McGregor Boulevard known as the Edison Ford Estate.
January 28 - February 1, 2026
The annual Key West Food and Wine Festival has been recognized by the Travel Channel as one of the top 5 food and wine events that you must attend. This series of wine and food themed venues showcases a diverse range of wines and inventive cuisine, hosted by their passionate creators at iconic island locations.
