December 2017 Review/Photo of the Month

It’s again time to announce our Monthly “Review/Photo of the Month” winner. Each month we select a memorable guest review or photo to win a $100 cash card.

Our December 2017 winner is the Gansner Family, holiday guests of ours at << PLANTATION TROPICALE >> who submitted an excellent 5-sar review for their stay, and shared a fun photo of the whole group enjoying the home’s spacious outdoor pool area!

The Gansner’s review of their stay at Plantation Tropicale
The family celebrated their holidays ‘Key West’ style this year.

Receiving such a flattering review and seeing these amazing moments of our guests’ vacations reminds us how lucky we are to be doing what we do in such a magical place.

For our future guests, send us a photo or video of your time on vacation and submit your memorable review for your stay to be automatically entered in our Monthly contest for a chance to win a $100 cash card.

Time to Kick Start Key West – Post Hurricane Irma Update

Six weeks have passed since Hurricane Irma showed her ugly face in the Florida Keys, primarily impacting the middle and lower Keys about 20 miles North of Key West. Magically (see more on the mystical Grotto here), Key West was spared from much of the devastation and is now back to normal… which if you know Key West, is not normal at all.

Last week many Key West lovers flocked down to take part in the annual Halloween celebrations known as Fantasy Fest. It was such a fine sight to see so many people enjoying our glorious island again! If you weren’t able to make it to Fantasy Fest, don’t worry: There are a great number of fun events on the calendar for the rest of the year, including next week’s 37th Annual Super Boat Races, where guests can witness exciting power boat races right from the Truman Annex waterfont.

Now that Irma is in our rear-view, we need your help in bringing the activity back to our island! Despite the media’s portrayal of Irma’s impact, Key West was mostly spared – but what is now hitting us the hardest is the misconception that we are not yet open for tourism.  The island opened back up for tourism on October 1 and is back in full swing at this point. If you love Key West, it’s time you escaped all of your worries and took a relaxing vacation to our beautiful island. The weather is literally perfect, the beaches are glistening and you couldn’t pick a better time of year! Support your favorite vacation destination AND do your quality of life a favor by making a plan to spend a few nights, a week, or a month in the Conch Republic!

 

To make the deal even sweeter, we are offering some AMAZING specials that you will not want to pass up like our Procrastinator’s Discount, Snowbird Special, and Kick Start Key West.  See our specials page for details. Discounts included in online quoting.

Should you have additional questions about the impact of Hurricane Irma, the state of the island or our properties, please do not hesitate to call us directly at 305-292-6266.

Long live the Conch Republic!  #keysstrong

August/September 2017 Review/Photo of the Month

With Hurricane Irma impacting basically the entire month of September, we were never able to announce our winning submission for August. Also, being that there were no photos submitted (obviously) in September, the winner of this month’s $100 cash card will be for both months… Take that Irma!

Our August/September 2017 Review/Photo of the month winner is The Owens Family, guests of ours at :: OCTOPUS’S GARDEN :: They submitted a very flattering 5-star review, and shared some creative and fun photos with us from their time in Key West!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seeing these amazing moments of our guests’ vacations just reminds us how lucky we are to be doing what we do and to live in such a magical place. Now that Key West is back in business, we look forward to receiving more memorable photos from our fabulous guests.

Future guests are encouraged to send us a photo or video of their time on vacation and/or submit a memorable review to be automatically entered in our monthly contest and have a chance to win a $100 cash card.

Welcome Back Key West! #ConchStrong

Key West is BACK IN ACTION and ready to welcome all of the Keys lovers from around the world!
The official start to tourism is October 1, but our homes in Old Town through Stock Island are cleaned up and ready for visitors.
Last Key Realty has reopened
Help us support our brothers and sisters in the lower and middle keys, many of whom work in Key West, by keeping our tourism alive and showing your love for the *CONCH* way of life! Come take it easy – enjoy your favorite restaurants (all open!), visit your favorite watering holes (all ready to pour your drinks!), take a dip in our beautiful waters and catch some fish & some rays of sunshine.
We are offering 20% off our homes through October – come on down, the water’s fine!

Slow Down, This ain’t the Mainland: Your Guide to Getting Around Key West Without A Car

Getting around Key West isn’t too difficult, after all it is an island. Speed limits are low, people are friendly and you’ll probably see a few bumper stickers with the tagline “Slow Down, this ain’t the mainland.” At Last Key Realty, we’ve come up with a guide – for those vacationing without a vehicle or for those that want to ditch their vehicle – to get you around Key West in the style that best fits your island experience.

Ride A Bike

The quintessential mode of island life transportation is biking. Most streets in Key West have designated bike lanes, making cycle commutes safe and easy. However, be sure to keep your wits about you and watch out for traffic. Key West has a long history of being a bike-friendly community. Many locals take pride in dressing up their “conch cruisers” and rig them with distinct character, flair and fabulousness. Just remember to always use bike lights at night, and to lock up your bike when making a pit stop downtown. Renting a home without parking for a vehicle? Bike racks are located all around Key West, and most LKR vacation homes have designated space for locking up your bicycle when you aren’t out cruising around. If your bike won’t fit nicely in the overhead bin or safely under the seat in front of you, don’t worry, our Concierge Team will be happy to help you secure two wheels during your time in paradise. They can even arrange for bike delivery to your Key West vacation home, so that you won’t have to waste valuable vacation time. Not the most confident on a bike? You can always snag a three-wheeled adult beach cruiser for an easy ride around town, plus these tri-cycles feature ample basket space. This set-up is perfect for a “beverage” run or a quick trip to the local grocer, Faustos, for the essentials.

Hop on a Scooter

There’s nothing like scootin’ around town with your hair blowing in the wind. Driving a scooter is quicker than riding a bike, yet more convenient than driving a car. Key West is very scooter-friendly and scooter/moped parking is a breeze – especially in Old Town. Plus, you really get to see more of the island up close when riding a scooter compared to driving a car. Reserve a scooter for your stay through our Concierge Team, who will offer to shuttle you to your scooter pick-up location.

On Foot

Get your steps in! Nothing is “too far” to walk in Key West. At only 2-miles by 4-miles, walking the entire island can be accomplished in a single day. Walking is a safe option (especially after you’ve hit a few happy hours) and it allows you to soak in and marvel the island’s beautiful architecture.

Ride Sharing

Now that Uber, Lyft, and other Ride Sharing Services have made their way to Key West, enjoy the convenience of a quick ride around town just by using your smartphone. Ride sharing is a great option after hitting the bars on Duval Street or for a prompt fast trip to and from the airport. Ride sharing is the perfect option for reaching locations that may be a bit far for a bike ride or a walk without having to rent a vehicle for your entire stay.

Duval Loop

As of August 31st, Key West will offer a circulator bus ride to your favorite stops on and around Duval Street. Tentatively called the “Duval Loop,” this complimentary bus service consists of a sixteen stop route. The Duval Loop is part of the city’s “Car Free Key West” initiative to eliminate cars and ease congestion in the heart of Old Town Key West. Check out the official Duval Loop website for pickup times and stops. You can also search for one of our amazing vacation rentals on Duval Street, or rentals near Duval Street.

Pedicab

Pedicabs are three-wheeled vehicles that seat two passengers in a hooded cab behind the driver, who operates it using pedals. You will see them riding up, down, and around Duval Street constantly, and hopping in one to get from one bar or attraction to the next is a relaxing and fun way to get around. It’s also a great way to see the island while letting the pedicab driver do all the work.

For any other questions, or to find a Key West Vacation Rental, just contact us at Last Key Realty.

July 2017 Review/Photo of the Month

Another month has come and gone, and with it we’ve received a number of excellent reviews and fun photos from our guests from their adventures in Key West. Each month we select one of these memorable guest reviews and/or photos to win a $100 cash card.

Our July 2017 winner is The Bakewell Family who stayed with us at :: LA BONNE VIE :: and submitted an excellent 5-star review and shared fun photos of their vacation in Key West!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We love seeing photos of our guests enjoying their vacations and receiving feedback about the properties they stayed in and the service they received.

For our future guests, send us your photos/video of your time on vacation and/or submit a memorable review for your stay to be automatically entered in our Monthly contest, for a chance to win a $100 cash card.

June 2017 Review/Photo of the Month

Each month we choose our favorite guest Review and/or Photo submission received during that month to win a $100 cash card. Our June 2017 winner is the Shepherd Family who stayed with us at :: VILLA CUBANA :: and submitted an outstanding 5 star review, as well as shared some lovely photos of their time in Key West with us! It looks like they got to enjoy some time on the water…

Villa Cubana Guests Last Key Realty Guests

Last Key Realty Guest Photo

Seeing these amazing moments of our guests’ vacations just reminds us how lucky we are to be doing what we do and to live in such a magical place.

For future guests, send us a photo/video of your time on vacation and/or submit your memorable review for your stay to be entered for a chance to win a $100 cash card. July’s winner might be you!

Last Key Realty Boat Slip Rentals

Key West has some of the most beautiful waters on earth. People travel from ALL over the world to experience the crystal clear waters of America’s most southern point. There is nothing like cruising the Gulf of Mexico looking for a sandbar hangout, or sliding across the Atlantic Ocean on your way to an adventurous diving or fishing excursion. Being that it is almost essential to have a boat in Key West, we offer convenient Boat Slip Rentals. Not only can you rent a Home for yourself to stay, but you can also rent a Slip for your boat to stay.

Our four Boat Slips are available for Weekly rental at Sunset Marina, located on Stock Island. Here are the individual details of each Slip:

Marlin 7 – 40 ft. Boat Slip. Maximum boat size: 45 ft. long, 12 ft. wide. 6 ft. draft depth.

Marlin 8 – 30 ft. Boat Slip. Maximum boat size: 35 ft. long, 14 ft. wide. 6 ft. draft depth.

Grouper 9 – 40 ft. Boat Slip. Maximum boat size: 45 ft. long, 15 ft. wide. 6 ft. draft depth. Located at the end of the dock.

Grouper 10 – 40 ft. Boat Slip. Maximum boat size: 45 ft. long, 15 ft. wide. 6 ft. draft depth. Located at the end of the dock.

All Slips include a storage dock box, fish cleaning station, a 30 amp power source, water supply and full Guest Services of Last Key Realty. Also located at the Sunset Marina is the Marina Store and ride-up Gas Station. Rest assured in knowing that your Boat is in a safe and secure location during your time in Key West. Sunset Marina regulations require these slip rentals not be used for liveaboards, but we’d be happy to accommodate your stay at one of our luxury Vacation Rentals. Also, trailer storage can be accommodated at an additional cost. Please inquire for details.

While in Key West, getting out on the water is a must. Enjoy the peaceful aquatic scenery, catch yourself some dinner, or take the family snorkeling. There is so much to experience in the surrounding waters of Key West. Let your Boat experience Paradise too!

If you are going to bring your boat with you to Key West or rent one while you’re here, consider a convenient Last Key Realty Boat Slip Rental. For more information, call our Office at (305) 292-6266.

January is Fun in Key West!

There is never a bad time to visit Key West, but January may be the best month to enjoy the southernmost part of the United States. While the rest of the country is bundled up indoors, the month of January in Key West is traditionally in the mid-70s and sunny. Besides having superb weather, January in Key West is loaded with an abundance of exciting events for tourists and residents alike. Here’s a short list of exciting happenings taking place in Key West during the month of January:

  1. 30th Annual Regatta Race WeekimagesTaking place January 15-20, this thrilling must-see event features world-class yachting competition from all over the world. There will be upwards of 100 yacht teams competing for class Championships and is a fun time for the whole family. To view the action, fans can book seats on spectator boats ranging from excursion catamarans to historic tall ships or from land at Key West’s Atlantic-front restaurants, resorts and beaches.

  1. 12th Annual Key West Seafood FestivalunknownAs long as you’re not allergic to shellfish, you’ll absolutely love this event! Held at Key West’s Bayview Park on January 14 & 15, the Seafood Festival is sure to be a weekend of shell cracking, butter dipping fun. A family-friendly event with fresh Key West seafood, drinks, marine-related crafts, youth activities, and live music.

  1. Key West Food & Wine FestivalunknownGrab a wine glass and a fork, as you pair your favorite vino with Key West’s finest culinary delicacies. From January 25-29, enjoy premiere cuisine and wine brought to you by top chefs and restaurateurs in a flavorful schedule of events for food lovers. Highlights include neighborhood wine strolls, food and wine pairings, intriguing seminars and a grand tasting.

  1. 57th Annual Key West House & Garden Toursunknown-1Have you ever wanted to see the inside of Key West’s oldest and most exquisite homes? Here is your chance! Tour a series of elegant and unique private homes, ranging from luxurious restorations to creative renovations, and the interior design that complements each. March tours are offered 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on January 13 & 14.

  1. 32nd Annual Key West Craft Showunknown-2Strengthen your craft game by joining the thousands of attendees browsing and buying creatively crafted items made by local artisans who gather to display their talents at this popular outdoor festival. Event held January 28 & 29 on Whitehead Street in historic Old Town Key West.

     

    It’s not too late to plan your January escape of the blistering winter experienced by most of the country. Come down for a long weekend, kick back for a week, or stay for the whole month! We still have some homes available for January, these homes include:

Gulfside Vistas

Stunning Third Floor 2 Bedroom, 2.5 Bathroom Waterfront Condominium in Truman Annex with Waterfront Community Pool Access. Available Weekly.

 

Suzy’s Parrot Perch

Charming Second Story 2 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom Apartment in Old Town Near Duval Street. Available Nightly & Weekly.

 

Octopus’s Garden

Beautiful 2-Story 3 Bedroom, 3 Bathroom Private Home at Coral Hammock Gated Community with Pool & Fitness Center. Available Nightly & Weekly.

 

Casita Angelita

Fully Renovated First Floor 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Condo located just off Duval Street. Available Nightly & Weekly.

 

Nature’s Edge

Luxurious First Floor 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom Condo at Smathers Beach. Available Nightly & Weekly.

 

 

Visit our website: www.lastkeyrealty.com to see all of our available Vacation Rentals and to book your Key West stay for January, it will be here before you know it! See you in Paradise ?

 

Weekly Recap: Friday Favorites

As we head into the weekend let’s take a moment to think about all of the awesome things that happened this week.  There are so many wonderful things happening out in the world; below are my top four favorite things that happened this week!

1. The Key West Lighted Bike Parade

Key West Lighted Bike Parade
Key West Lighted Bike Parade

In Key West, when it comes to Christmas, we don’t just decorate a tree.  We decorate everyyyythang.  Tons of Key Westers brought unwrapped toys or a cash donation to benefit The Wesley House and provide holiday gifts to families in need.  They rode their decked out bikes on down to “Sparkle Street” a.k.a Applerouth Lane where the merriment continued into the wee morning.

2.  The Dude Who Punched a Kangaroo:

This video has taken the internet by storm.  But seriously, what dog owner wouldn’t square up to a Kanga to save their pooch!

3.  The Couple That Murdered the Dance Floor

Every year this cute as can be couple shows up to a local mall and brings down the house; this year to the tune of Uptown Funk!  Just look at the smiles on their faces!  Can you say #relationshipgoals?!

4.  The Fujifilm Instax Mini Camera

Fujifilm Instax Mini Camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini Camera

I actually received this gem as a Christmas gift last year from a friend of mine and had it tucked away from moving until we broke it out last night for our company holiday party.  Such a fun addition to the night, the pictures are small, instant, and look super cute hanging from clothespins.

What are your favorite things that happened this week?!  Comment below and share with us…

If one of your favorite things happens to be Key West real estate…I am a full time buyers agent in Key West, Florida and am happy to help you in your real estate search.  Please contact me at 305-394-4073 or krystal@lastkeyrealty.com.