Key West Hotels

Key West hangs - or, more often, swings - like a dazzling, off-beat and gaudy pendant at the southernmost point of the continental US. But its semi-detachment is more than geographic; it's part of the laissez-faire that - along with the subtropical climate and palm-shaded streets - has attracted artists, musicians, writers and a thriving gay community.

'Just another day in paradise' is probably the best way to describe Key West's weather from October to June: it rarely gets below 18°C (65°F) or above 32°C (90°F). This makes it a summertime weekend destination for overheated Miamians, and a year-round attraction for the rest of the world's population, all of whom seem to be here during the tourist season (December through to April). Hurricane season, from June to October, lets budget travelers enjoy lower costs and less crowded beaches, but just remember that one little hurricane can ruin your whole vacation. Of course, an emergency evacuation across 256km (159mi) of flimsy-looking bridges has great 'amusing anecdote' potential.