Hobo's Cafe Review - Key Largo, Florida

I've traveled to over 40 States in America and I've determined this restaurant to be one of my personal favorites for a few reasons:

Aesthetics. I only ever sit outside while dining at Hobo's. I enjoy gazing at the plants placed around the patio. It brings a calmness to a stressful day. The patio is sprinkled with Christmas lights. A warm yellow that isn't too bright on the eyes. Just light enough to read the menu and enjoy the ambiance. 

I mentioned outside as this is a huge factor, especially in the Florida Keys, where mosquitos lurk on unsuspecting people prey. Thankfully there is enough fans to keep them at bay, in addition to the no-see-ums. They have the mouth of an alligator on a fly body. You can't see them, hence the name.

It's a tropical environment and at night, for me because I'm always freezing, it's not too hot and not too cold, at least in April. I can finally enjoy not having to bundle up like I do in my 66 degree office. It's calm. I'm comfortable. Outside is the only place I request to sit here.

Food. I've explored other menu items such as the hogfish. It's good, but my all-time favorite is the Beef Churrasco with Chimichurri Sauce and a side of Creamed Spinach and a Sweet Tea. The sweet tea is similar to Sonny's BBQ sweet, maybe even sweeter! I love it! It's hard to find decent sweet tea. The zing from the strong, freshly made chimichurri sauce is extremely addicting. So much, that I requested multiple side orders of the sauce so I can take them home and freeze them, especially when they temporarily close, which I'll get to that in a moment.

Location. Strategically placed right in Key Largo, it's perfect so you don't have to make the extra 100mi drive south, unless that was the original intent. If that's the case, please check out my Key West Guide Here! You'll be able to read about the Ernest Hemingway House and the Key West Butterfly Conservatory, and more!

To add on location, plan your evening to end up at Sundowners first for a beautiful sunset. Don't order any food as this is where everyone and their grandma, their grandpa, cousins, you name it are also enjoying the sunset in Key Largo. Instead order a mojito and enjoy the live music.

Once the sun has set, bounce straight over to Hobo's and score yourself a spot on the patio for a peaceful evening.

Sundowners
103900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
sundownerskeylargo.com
(305) 451-4502

Hobo's Cafe
101691 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
hoboscafe.net
(305) 451-5888

With the good, I also have to throw out the cons to get rid of any surprises on your way down to Fantasy Fest (happens in October by the way).

DO NOT ORDER THE 16oz BIG DADDY PORTION!

Not that I think you can't eat it, but unfortunately the price for the larger size isn't worth it (to me personally.) The 12oz price will run you about 34.99 plus the cost of a side and drink, but the 16oz will end up charging you 59.99 for only 4 more extra oz added. Skip the "Big Daddy" and order a dessert.

Inside the main restaurant isn't the most romantic. I personally love sitting outside at this particular location. It does feel like the dining area gets pretty crowded. 

Earlier I mentioned that Hobo's does in fact, close during the year. Before making the trip out of the way, if it's your first time, I highly recommend just giving a quick call to make sure they're open or check their website for updates and operating hours.

Before I post photos of my deliciousness, I want to mention that not only Trip Advisor named them as Traveler's Choice 2020, but National Geographic also stated that they are the most authentic Keys eateries.

With all that being said, 

behold

Beef Churrasco with Chimichurri Sauce
and Creamed Spinach with a Sweet Tea.

How many times I've visited!

                                         

https://hoboscafe.net/

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ee2hMen4ZzcaEkRy9

sundownerskeylargo.com

Steampunk Adventurers Weekend Experience

What is Steampunk?

Steampunk is a hybrid of aesthetics from science fiction to futuristic technology, inspired by steam-powered industrial machinery. Costumes and utilitarian objects are created in conglomeration with ideas that include post-apocalyptic settings to the American West, including the Victorian era. It’s a style of steam, fantasy, leather, gears, and metal. The Wild Wild West, which many people are familiar with, is also an excellent example of this style.

Quiz

Which State has a working Steam Clock? 
Who invented Steampunk? 
What is the mascot of Steampunk? 

Where is the Steampunk Festival Located?

Steampunk Adventurers Weekend at Yesteryear Village

601-7 Sansbury’s Way, West Palm Beach, FL 33411

Saturday November 12, 2022, 12pm – 11pm

Sunday, November 13, 2022, 11am – 8pm

Dates have been crossed out, due to this event already taking place.

For personal safety reasons, I did not post where I was currently.

Cost / Promos

$55.00 for 2-Day 18+ Traveler Ticket

This was purchased at the end of October, but I should have waited for an
            a better deal.

There were promos that came after this timeframe

HALLOWSTEAM22 for $5 off: via email

SAWNOV22 to save 10% (online only): on their website

Promos have been crossed out, due to this event already taking place and
            no longer work.

Family Friendly / Pet Friendly / Safe Solo

Family Friendly: YES

Pet Friendly: NO

Safe Solo: YES

Amenities

Food and Drinks: I recommend eating a full meal before heading to the festival. Food is expensive because it’s a convenience there. A cheeseburger was running around $11.00.

Restrooms: There are multiple restroom options, including building facilities.

Vendors: Sadly, there were not a ton of vendors. Hopefully there will be more to check out next year. I’d like to see more steampunk attire available on-site!

Parking: Free and plenty of it!

Entertainment

Live Shows and Music | Rides | Facepainting | Balloons

Magic and Bubble Shows | Crafting and Victorian Games

Weather

The weather was pretty warm on November 12^th followed by a heavy rainstorm towards the evening. People that wore elaborate costumes were very hot.

November 13 was just as warm, but it was a nice day for photo opportunities.

                       November 12^th                        November 13^th

            

 Etiquette

Treat others how you want to be treated. With that being said, the following article contains comments and resources regarding etiquette of the Victorian era. Some may not apply but dig through the multiple comments under the “tags” of each section and you’ll be surprised to find more information. https://steamfashion.livejournal.com/tag/etiquette

Interesting Facts

K.W. Jeter is created the term steampunk in 1987

The octopus is the mascot of steampunk

Only a few functioning steam clocks exist around the world

Recommendations / What to Bring

1.     Eat before you arrive. There is a Wendy’s down the street.

2.     Bring a fan, umbrella, or both! Florida is hot, even in November. The umbrella can help with last minute rainstorms, and provide quick shade.

3.     Get a stamp on your forearm if you have to leave. Otherwise, you might wash it off your hand.

4.     Walk around Yesteryear Village. There are a lot of interesting older buildings with cooler curations!

Future Events / Calendar

       Feb 10-12, 2023 
       Atlanta Steampunk Exposition – Steampunk Convention Atlanta, GA, USA

       Feb 18, 2023 
       Syfy Bartow – Science Fiction Festival Bartow, FL, USA

       Mar 30-Apr 2, 2023 
       MegaCon Orlando – Geek Convention with Steampunk Orlando, FL, USA

       Apr 14-16, 2023 
       221B Con – Convention for All Things Sherlock Holmes Atlanta, GA, USA

       Apr 22 2023 10:00am - 4:00pm
       Prehistoricon - A fossil, gemstone, prehistoric bones, and Steampunk Mulberry, FL, USA

Social Accounts To Follow

https://www.facebook.com/SteampunkAdventurersWeekend

https://www.facebook.com/groups/steampunktendencies/

https://instagram.com/mr.clausflorida

https://www.facebook.com/noteheather

Personal Experience 

My adventure brings me to the side of iThink Financial Amphitheater, to Yesteryear Village. Barely exiting the car, the temperature feels like NOPE degrees. Even in my costume, which includes a black velvet utility kilt, white peasant shirt, black Spirit Halloween corset, and knee-high black boots, there was not enough shade or cool breezes even though half of November is through. The amphitheater, formerly known as the Cruzan, has hosted thousands of concerts. It is surprising to admit, this was my first time ever visiting Yesteryear village which sits adjacent to it. An arched gate stands at the entrance waiting for like-minded steampunkers to arrive.

Once breaking through security, I mean passing them, I was greeted by two stilt walkers dressed in elaborate costumes. Towering over me, I stare up into the steam-powered inspired heavens with a smile. I am in the right place!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Steampunk Adventurers Weekend (@saw_florida)

Almost everyone who showed up, was dressed in their own style!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Steampunk Adventurers Weekend (@saw_florida)

Sadly, EDC (Electric Daisy Carnival) happened to be during the same week in Orlando, FL. I really believe this event murdered the attendance at the Steampunk Festival. However, it was nice with a smaller crowd as I would be able to enjoy most of the activities all to myself!

While strolling through the village, there didn’t seem to be many vendors. To spend $250-500 for a vendor spot makes it hard for them to make any profit. Because this was their first annual festival since covid, hopefully the following years will be better.

            As I'm walking through the rest of the village I hear a high pitch squeltch, "DO YOU WANT TO RIDE?!" The Hurlinator is visible on a sign over this metal contraption. I was convinced to go on only because the attendant said it went faster with multiple people, as I was being stared at by two other women waiting to spin their guts around. This was $4 worth of laughter. Much like the gravitron at the local fair, your stomach disappears into your lungs. Thank you attendant for also getting this awesome shot!

            The remainder of the village includes many older style buildings with different themes. One of my favorites, happened to be the blacksmithing area. The gentleman running the booth was super nice and very interactive. He also has a spot down at the South Florida Fairgrounds. It’s amazing to see a forgotten art being brought back to life.

I found my way over to a fishing shack. Along the walls, are older luars, photos, motors curated nicely to create a familiar wooden fishcamp vibe. Venturing through and around it, you'll be able to see a lake from the boardwalk that surrounds the building.

I enjoyed the time traveling concept that not only the steampunk festival tried to create, but the features from what Yesteryear village added to it. 

While there were lectures commencing and stages being set for the evening shows, I stumbled on a warehouse that housed antique firetrucks which made a nice backdrop for an impromptu self-photoshoot. Other displays within this building included a shoe crafting area, a ham radio station, and a press printing area that I used as an experimental area to test my camera's functions.

Even though other events to were taking place, I was more interested in people watching and enjoying the costumes other steampunk cosplayers were able to craft. Of those, Steampunk Santa happened to be one of them. His name is Mark, and he spent quite a lot of time and imagination on his custom made suit. Details including imprinted snowflakes on his leather belt, to his whimsically red coat were all planned out for over 6 months. I was able to successfully take a couple photos with him and created some tasteful pieces before heading out. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did collaborating!

Quiz Answers: 
1. Indiana

2. K.W. Jeter 

3. Octopus

How to Get a Discount Buying a Fridge or any Large Appliance

How Does One Pose With A Fridge?

Please read this entire article before completing the purchase of your next appliance.

All of the tips are listed in steps and it is important to review the entire article to make sure you're receiving the maximum discount. You work hard for your money, you should keep some!

Figure out the style of fridge you'd like first. Double door, bottom freezer, no ice maker, etc. This is important because there are certain brands dedicated to particular stores, such as Hisense only sold at Lowe's.

After determining the type of style you like, get your dimensions. Usually, this limits where your final product is going to be found, like solely at Home Depot. This can be a very frustrating process, but there's some savings that can be made in the process.

1. Check the website for digital coupons. It might sound obvious, but can be overlooked while dealing with brick and mortar stores.

2. Check the manufacturer's website for a coupon or rebate program. Depending on your current chapter in life, buying appliances in bulk can apply towards rebates.

3. Before purchasing your refrigerator, look ahead in the calendar to see if there are any important sales coming up. There might be an opportunity to save even more just by waiting a week or two, such as labor day sales.

4. Some stores such as Lowe's and Home Depot offer military discounts. Usually these can add up to 10% off. They can't always be combined with a coupon, but it's worth doing some math if you qualify!

5. Bare with me. Once you've looked at all of the options above, finally log in to Raise.com. This is the BEST site I've found for buying and selling used gift cards. I've personally seen and used gift cards that have been up to 2.0% off at the more common big box stores. Load up on these and make sure to check the fine print that you're not buying more than their max savings. Some will say, max $20 savings. ALSO, Lowe's will only allow up to 5 giftcards to be used at a time. Don't buy too many cards.

6. Once all of this is reviewed, use your credit card with the maximum amount of cash back savings allowed. Since you're already making a large purchase, might as well get at least 1% cash back.

An important note! Make sure to leave a small amount left at the end of your purchase when buying the leftover on your credit card. Most people do not know credit cards have warranties available through purchases, should something happen to your new house decor.

If you liked this article and you want to help me out, purchasing a giftcard through Raise will give me a referral bonus! Click Here to go to the site!

Check out these other Amazon Fridge Deals

Fridge Deals

Did you know you can get an AARP Membership under 50 years old?

Did you know you can get an AARP Membership under 50 years old?

Most people think that you have to be 50 years old to receive the benefits of AARP (American Association of Retired Persons). Surprisingly, anyone at any age can join and I’ve tested this out with the physical card that was sent to me. And yes, I’m just a little over quarter of a century old.

The following, are some of the reasons to get an AARP membership:

               Discounts on Travel: Car Rentals, Hotels, Flights

               Discounts on Restaurants: Outback, Rainforest Café(There’s one in Orlando, FL!)

               Educational Magazines sent to your home

               Insurance Benefits (This one really applies to 50 and older due to age restricted contracts)

The only reason I ever found out that AARP could even be offered to me at such a young age was from reading this forbes article, https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogerma/2017/08/31/why-i-joined-aarp-at-age-35/?sh=7f062e1170f5. Without seeing this, I would have never known I could apply for a membership.

The following are some other articles I found from young people jumping on the bandwagon:

1. https://grow.acorns.com/heres-how-much-i-saved-by-joining-the-aarp-in-my-20s/

2. https://www.retailmenot.com/blog/why-joining-the-aarp-under-age-50-is-smart.html

3. https://wallethacks.com/is-aarp-worth-it/

4. https://www.aarp.org/membership/faqs/ (You can read it in their faq!)

5. https://hubpages.com/money/AARPMembership (Hey! It's Me!)

How much is it? $12 for your first year. Normally $16/year.

               1 Year $12           3 Years $43         5 Years $63

The card has already paid for itself between financial advice and restaurant discounts. A free second household membership is included. I’ve been able to use the AARP Membership at the following places:

1.      Outback Steakhouse – 10% off on food and nonalcoholic beverages

2.      Exxon Mobil – Every 100 points earns equivalent of $1 in savings on eligible purchases

3.      AARP The Magazine – gets sent directly to my home so I can physically flip through it

Even though people under 50 can use some of the benefits offered under the AARP membership, not all of them can be used. Insurance products and advisors are reserved specifically for the older generation.

To become a member, follow this link: https://join.aarp.org/joinnav/?intcmp=DSO-HDR-JOIN-EWHERE&_ga=2.196746856.551922809.1625801091-42800056.1625801091

As much as I’d like to compete with Google’s algorithms, I left this article fairly short and to the point. We have more information to cover!

Check out these popular posts:

               1. Craigslist Tips And Suggestions For A Better Sale And Removing Clutter

               2. Halloween Camping

               3. Tips For Renting A Car In Any Country

Halloween Camping, Peace River, FL

Happy Halloween from Peace River RV & Camping Resort in Florida! A picture of the campsite can be seen below.

If I did Halloween camping again, I'd wake up wearing my costume. The sun sadly went down shortly after taking this photo. 

With that being said, the weather was BEAUTIFUL! Good friends, good food, beer and more beer!

Peace River RV & Camping Resort

2555 River Rd, Wauchula, FL 33873

(863) 735-8889

https://maps.app.goo.gl/dUDFgC6woqD1yWAX8

What I will bring next time:

• Something to protect my self-inflating air mattresses from dog nails

• A mesh bag for dishes to hang dry

• More mosquito protection

• Sleeping bag specifically for the dogs

• Bungee straps to pull excess tarp up in case of rain/condensation

• Cooler basket to separate meat

• Camping chairs, you know, to sit and drink beer from while watching a fire! I may have forgot them..

• More games. How did I forget the only game that ruins relationships?!! (UNO)

• Collapsible shovel

• Something to hang dry clothes/towels

What I will reduce:

• Less dog food. Brought wayyy to much rice and boiled eggs for Gus.

• The amount of dry goods. Especially when there are stores just down the road. Saves weight.

• I won't bring a beach mat next time for the dogs. They enjoy the cool sand and itchy grass I guess. Instead, I'd like to bring something thinner and lighter for packing.

• I'm not a fan of cups AND bowls. I will be finding an alternative for both that can also handle heat. One of my good friends brought his multi-use cup that has foldable handles. 

• Garbage - This one is always hard for me. Everything is packaged and makes so much waste. Although, with the stuff I just purchased, it's a one time deal, so there won't be as much trash generated.

• I took a Brita water filter to the site hoping I would have some fresh water...that water tasted awful! Instead, I'll be trying a couple alternative water filters. I definitely won't be bringing the Brita filter and I most likely won't purchase anymore from that company.

There's a lot more to cover, but I figured this would be a great snapshot of what the weekend was like.

As promised, here's a photo of the set-up. If you have any suggestions or tips, please add them. 

I want to read them all. 

Thanks for stopping by!

Craigslist Tips and Suggestions for a Better Sale and Removing Clutter

I did some of my own research along with using my own personal experiences to generate a list of helpful tips regarding Craigslist. This is to help you sell your items quicker, easier, and safer. You can view my tips below the links listed. If you choose to select the links, some may include pop-ups. As I come across more helpful suggestions, I will be updating the article accordingly. Otherwise, be safe and happy listing!

Heather's Tips:

• Take high quality pictures. Show the good, the bad, AND the ugly. No one likes to be misled, especially in a sale. Make sure to use a significant amount of light. Bad pictures will deter potential buyers as well.

• Don't give personal information unless you know that it's safe! Personal information includes your name, email, home address, and phone number.

• Update the status of your items. If they are sold, please remove it from the list. This reduces useless traffic. If they are still for sale, offer a better price or more pictures.

• Place your ad in the closest surrounding cities. For instance I live in the Treasure Coast, therefore, I would choose West Palm Beach and Vero Beach. The wording may have to be changed in some of the posts as it may look like spam.

• Craigslist is great for moving products out of your home/office fast. It's also great for employing help. If you have a small business and are looking for extra hands, try it out! Be warned though, there are a lot of Joe Shmoe's off the street. You might not find the perfect person for the job in the first couple interviews.

• It's always best to add in your listing if the items are considered new or used. Tell potential buyers if your items are from a non-smoking home or free of animal dander. Nothing is worse than getting hit by a wall of stench. Not to mention, the items will smell like their environment and someone could be allergic to animal dander.

• OBO: Or Best Offer. This will attract more buyers. Set the price of your item a little higher than the lowest price you'll absolutely go. One, it makes the buyer feel good that they were able to haggle you down. Two, you didn't go lower than your bare minimum. People always like to feel they got the "best" deal.

• If you do decide to use your phone number, do not put it in the ad as 123-456-7890. You will have an abundance of spam sent to you right away including telemarketers calling you constantly. Make sure to mix it up a bit by changing some of the numbers to actual words. One23-four56-seven890. This deters bots from finding your phone number in the listing.

• Use an email address you don't mind getting scammed unless you're familiar with what a scam email looks like. For me, I use my personal email because I have it linked to my phone in case of an instant reply.

• Choose a mutual place to exchange items and money. Don't meet up with someone in the dark unless you know the person. For me personally, I like to choose the Wendy's parking lot down the road. It's perfect, close, and lit up from all the parking lights.
   
• Have junk? You can add that on Craigslist under the free items section. Be sure to add FREE or Curb Alert in the title so others can pick your junk up even quicker. Curb Alert allows you to literally place your items at the end of your driveway, list your address, and not have to deal with other people face to face. They simply come and pick the items up.

• Only accept CASH for your items. Do NOT accept checks. You are asking to lose out on money and your item. This is a scam. To read more about scams, I highly suggest this article http://www.moneycrashers.com/types-common-craigslist-scams/  

• If accepting cash, don't be afraid to invest in a counterfeit marker. This will save you loads of trouble when bringing your money to the bank.

• Every couple days, update your post. This will place your ad at the top of the list, increasing the chances of someone taking an interest in what you have to sell.

• If you have a website to link to your products, do it. Millions of people use craigslist for a multitude of things. Increase your exposure.
• If there is an agreement on a price with a customer, do not sell it to someone else without communicating. This can create turmoil as the stranger now might have personal information to retaliate. Let the other party know there is an interest before completely ignoring them. They may have cancelled their plans and now have to reschedule.
• Remove posts if they are no longer up to date. People don't want to waste their time if the item is no longer available.

Useful Links

http://www.lifeedited.com/10-tips-for-selling-stuff-on-craigslist/

http://ohhappyday.com/2013/07/5-craigslist-tips/

http://www.getrichslowly.org/blog/2007/02/01/24-craigslist-tips-tricks-and-resources/

http://www.moneycrashers.com/craigslist-selling-tips/

Tips for Renting a Car in Any Country

Look in to getting an international driving permit. Some countries require this. It took me 20 minutes to get mine from AAA in the United States.

Take photos of the vehicle before leaving the parking lot and GET FULL COVERAGE! The antenna of the vehicle I was driving, snapped off from the cold brisk wind. See photo below!

Get the GPS. Our cellphones died. It consumed more juice than the plug could provide in the car. With time constraints, an extra 30 minutes could be detrimental. Also guided tours are sometimes programmed with it!

Make sure there is at least $1,000.00 available on your credit card for deposits and incidents. When renting a car in Heathrow, we decided to get zero insurance at the office because we purchased it online. That resulted in a $1,000.00 deposit instead of $400.00 for a $20.00 coverage. We called the online company and canceled our insurance through them to buy it at the counter to reduce our deposit instead.


Pay everything with credit card. One, so it's tracked and if there are any disputes such as the rental company telling you to fill to a specific amount, you can file the claim with your credit card company. Two, I just learned this, some credit card companies also have insurance. Do some research online and let me know what you find! Three, this includes paying gas with credit card. Your card is protected by the FDIC, at least in the United States. If your card is scammed, there will be hope.

Know your region. Traveling through the land of fire and ice? Get a 4x4 or at least something that allows you to drive over a small stream. Travelling through the city? That Lexus is nice when your lanes are bigger, otherwise you'll be puckering pretty hard when cars are coming in your lane to get around parked vehicles, especially at 50 kilometers per hour. Also, know which side of the road you're driving on!

Watch out for speed cameras!!! Your GPS will sometimes help you.

Sign up for all rental companies. Their points and perks will add up. Only renting once? Call a friend up and give them your points!

You have to have a credit card in order to rent any vehicle. Make sure you have one.

Only use one person as the driver and make sure they're older than suggested age limits to avoid extra charges.

Fill up, fill up, fill up. Keep your car above half tank. Especially in an unknown region. The next station could be 20 miles away, which could be the doom of your holiday. Especially if you've been car camping overnight with the heat turned up to keep warm. Travelling is already stressful. There's no need to sweat over a low fuel light.

Before renting, read a blog or two to understand what might not be covered with insurance (like tires in Iceland!)

Also research to make sure you are not double paying insurances when buying traveler's insurance.

As I think of more, I'll update this article.

If there are any other great tips for renting a vehicle in another country, please post them below!

Key West, Florida, November 2016

Fate has landed me in Key West, Florida. The other California, though no beautiful mountains and earthquakes. The island has just about everything else, from coconuts to free spirits who wear painted birthday suits and sip on spiked slurpees. Think this might not suit your fancy? I highly recommend it!

“But there’s weird people down there!” “Aren’t you afraid to get hit on by drag queens?” “Have you seen any naked people?” “Six-toed Cats?!” “What about Zika virus?”

Weird is what makes us all unique. Go against the grain and experience a different culture that may be outside of your “normal” box. You will only grow as a person and just might come back with an interesting story, especially about the Garden of Eden. *insert winky face*

To answer the above questions: Yes there’s weird people. Yes there’s drag queens (pssst, they’re human too). Yes there’s homo-sapiens smothered in paint, but you really have to try hard to find them, unless you come for Fantasy Fest (Usually the end of October). Six-toed cats really do exist at the Hemingway House. As for Zika, you can be human, or you can just live vicariously through me and be a hobbit. No judging though.

On to the potatoes!

Etiquette
Don't blatantly stare, unless you plan on complimenting. Just because you're in a different location, don't get wasted and ruin it for others. If someone asks you to buy something, say no thank you, and continue walking to your destination. Finish your food on the street, not in the stores. Step out of your comfort zone and say hello to others looking at you. Don't leave trash, make it cleaner than you found it. No matter how bad you want to be a pirate, don't. Reminder, the people who work there see obnoxious people EVERY DAY. Make their day, if you can.

How much should I plan to spend in Key West, Florida?
This calculation is for one person spending a day there. Adjust for the group or kids you may bring and factors such as staying in a hotel (+$100.00).

Total: $200
Gas ~ $30 (127 mile round trip from Homestead, FL)
Food ~$75 (3 meals $25 plus hydration, candy, alcohol)
Souvenirs and Presents ~$100

How to pack for the Florida Keys
Flip flops (the same ones you used at the truck stop), shorts, shirt, underwear or swim suit, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.

How to arrive
Options: Car, Bus, Bike, Cruise, or Horse (no seriously, don’t). If you’re choosing to drive down, I highly recommending stopping at the RaceTrac gas station in Homestead. Point blank, there’s only one way in. This includes gas ($$). Also, if a wreck happens, you wait in a long, terrible line, sometimes for hours…But the good news is, YOU’RE IN THE KEYS!

The last tidbit of advice I’ll suggest is to not bring a truck. Parking is ri•DON•culous! This is not USPS. If it fits, chances are, your vehicle will end up different than you left it. In case you had no other options than to bring a larger automobile, the two parking garages listed below should help you out.

Old Town Garage
Address: 300 Grinnell St, Key West, FL, 33040
Phone: (305) 809-3910

Public Parking Key West
Address: 220 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 912-7275

How to travel the Florida Keys for FREE.
Get on Rideshare through Craigslist.com or ride with a friend. It’s dangerous, but you can also bike the 127 miles from Homestead, FL. Eat before you go and pack a day bag with food at home. Don’t buy anything. Sounds pretty plain and simple, but it’s okay to not buy that fancy dress or Fat Tuesday Slurpee. Join a buddy boat and help someone on their vessel.

Ways to make MONEY in Key West, Florida.
Sell parking space • Sell coconuts and other fruit • Street perform (people love fire) • Upcycle items in to Artwork • Fishing charters • Landscape • Pet and Child Sit • Braid Hair • Sell Sarongs • Rent Boats • Sell Fish • Beach Bag Kits • Dress up

Where are some unique places to eat in Key West, Florida?
This list could be quite extensive, but I’ll spare you some time. I’ve personally visited these four places to eat and drink. All are very good, but just depends on your mood. I started off with Better Than Sex because my inner diabetic told me to!

Amigos Tortilla Bar - Restaurant
Hopping hot spot with Day of the Dead decor & a menu of Mexican street food & gluten-free beers.
Address: 425 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 292-2009

Better Than Sex – Dessert
Dessert bar offering an extensive menu of decadent treats in a dimly lit, intimate space.
Address: 926 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 296-8102

Sloppy Joe's – Restaurant/Bar
Open since 1933, this bar offers live music & dancing plus a separate tap room for sports-watching.
Address: 201 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-5717

Hog’s Breath Saloon – Restaurant/Bar
Popular pub providing bar food on a covered outdoor patio plus live music & dancing.
Address: 400 Front St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 296-4222

Fat Tuesday – Slurpee Bar
Address: 305 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 296-9373

Things to do in Key West, Florida

Mike marker 0
Address: 501 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-1129

Ernest Hemingway House – 6-Toed Cats Live Here…
The Ernest Hemingway House, officially known as the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, was the residence of author Ernest Hemingway in Key West, Florida, United States. Opened in 1851.
Address: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 294-1136
Rate: ~ $13.00

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory located at 1316 Duval Street, Key West, Florida, United States is a butterfly park that houses from 50 to 60 different species of live butterflies from ... Wikipedia
Address: 1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 296-2988
Rate: ~ $12.00

Southernmost Point Buoy
The Southernmost Point Buoy is an anchored concrete buoy in Key West, Florida marking the southernmost point in the continental United States. Wikipedia
Address: Whitehead St & South St, Key West, FL 33040
Phone: (305) 809-3700

Walk Duval Street

Watch the Sunset Festival

Souvenirs
I’m an aspiring minimalist, so souvenirs turn me off. Especially if they’re not recyclable. But, I understand everyone is different. Here’s my list of environmentally friendly souvenirs you can get in the Keys!
Painted Upcycled Items • Handmade Grass Hats • Chopped Coconut Cups • Sand • Shell Mobiles • Hair Braids • Take a Picture and Frame it with Scraps Found

References
https://www.google.com/#q=better+than+sex+key+west
https://www.google.com/#q=sloppy+joes+key+west
https://www.google.com/#q=hogs+breath+key+west
https://www.google.com/#q=fat+tuesday+key+west
https://www.google.com/#q=mile+marker+0+key+west
https://www.google.com/#q=Ernest+heming+way+house
https://www.google.com/#q=butterfly+conservatory+key+west
https://www.google.com/#q=southern+most+point+bouy
https://www.google.com/search?ei=gwIEWsiRHauV0gLhio7IBg&q=amigos+tortilla+bar+key+west

I hope you enjoyed this guide.

Leave some comments to make it better!