Our last port of call returned us to United States soil as we came alongside in Key West, Florida. What a fun, energetic port. We arrived early (8am) and the town was already active and full of tourists. Despite our bright and early docking, we were not allowed to disembark until we had cleared customs. Melissa and I were among the lucky ones who were already dressed and ready when they did an open call for cruisers to come on down. We grabbed our passports and shoes and race-walked down the hall to the elevator which let us out right at the proper place to clear customs in under 5 minutes. Others, who delayed, had to wait in lines which took almost 2 hours. After clearing customs we enjoyed a lazy breakfast and headed out to explore our last port. 
Sloppy Joe's Bar is where Ernest Hemmingway spent his entire first advance. 
This is a grotto built by the local nuns after a hurricane took the lives of hundreds early last century. Their prayers and faithfulness are credited with the fact that Key West has never since taken a direct hit from such severe weather.
We had excursion tickets for a (hop on and off) trolley tour. What a great way to learn about Key West. Our driver was well versed and shared his love of his home in a relaxed and friendly fashion. The tour was nearly an hour and a half, taking us past the Aquarium, Treasure Museum, Harry Truman Little White House, Hemmingway Home, Key Lime stores, Duval Street and many other highlights. There are some very unusual sights as you walk around the town. We didn't see any six-toed cats but did find out that roosters are allowed to run wild and roam at will. (Check out the dog in sunglasses). We took time to watch a native of Cuba roll cigars - big business for many who visit this town.
We went from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Ocean Beach in a matter of minutes, since a mere mile of land separates the two bodies of water. We also got to experience the Southernmost point of the continental United States. 
After the trolley tour, we began our personal walking tour. We ate our lunch at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville. Yummy! We found the only yarn store in 160 miles (not a surprise to those who know me well). We discovered great treasures at the Coach Factory Valentine's Day sale. I found a lovely top at a local store that refuses to sell t-shirts. We also found the Key West Hard Rock Cafe (which our table mates told us is extremely haunted per their haunted Key West excursion guide) and purchased some souvenirs. Melissa enjoyed a treat she had been anticipating since seeing it on the Food Network - a slice of key lime pie dipped in chocolate! We had a great time, ate great food, purchased some fun gifts and have wonderful memories and a desire to return to Key West. 
