The Florida Keys - Winter 2023

Straits of Florida - January 5, 2023 - 5:50pm

If I said this was something I wish I could see every day, I would be telling you the absolute truth. There is nothing more beautiful to me than a sunset over the water. I happened to take this photo just the other day from a little skiff off the coast of Summerland Key. Views like this one are a major reason why I make the trek to the Florida Keys in the winter months. Well, that and because it's ridiculously cold almost every place else in the country during that time of the year. Snowbirds is what the locals call people like me. The ones who take up temporary residence to escape the elements elsewhere. But don't worry, even us snowbirds can spot a tourist, so I am both proud and humble to claim my title and accept my position in the hierarchy. Funny, isn't it? How we always feel inclined to label everything?

For the first couple years that I visited here, I wanted so much to be considered local enough to be treated like one but now, I relish in being a snowbird. Birds can fly, so that's cool. I recognize that part of why I love this place so much is because I have the chance to miss it. So, for now, I'll visit in the cold months and venture off 'the rock' the rest of the year. Big shout out to the population who choose to make the Florida Keys their permanent home. I know how hot it gets in the summertime and I applaud you for facing the risks and challenges that come along with residing at or below sea level, and in a hurricane-prone area.

March 30, 2022 Photo Credit: EarthObservatory.nasa.gov

Thousands of years ago, the falling sea levels brought these islands into existence but now, natural disasters and rising sea levels pose a serious threat to the long-term sustainability of the land and its structures.

Did you know the Keys is a cluster of 43 islands stretching 113 miles and connected by 42 bridges? (fla-keys.com) More than 80,000 people live on the islands, and approximately several million people from all over the world visit this popular area each year, (earthobservatory.nasa.gov).

From the crystal-clear blue waters to the endless adult and family entertainment, there is something for everyone to escape to in the Keys.

If you have never done it before, get yourself to South Florida and do the drive on US 1! Whether it has always been on your bucket list, or you promised your family a warm vacation, or you just need an excuse for a girl's trip, make it happen! Plan ahead or wing it...who knows what kind of adventure you might find yourself on.

It will take you about 3.5 to 4 hours to get to Key West from Miami (on a good day with less traffic) but there are plenty of places to stop along the way. I say, take your time. Appetizer-hop and try new restaurants. Shop at the little boutique stores. Rent a bike and go look for little deer on Big Pine Key. Go snorkeling or diving or fishing in Islamorada or Marathon. Charter a trip to a sandbar in the lower keys. Talk to the locals, buy someone a shot of tequila, and of course, make sure to enjoy the view along the way!

Click here for more information: Overseas Highway of the Florida Keys