Exploring Key West with Lucy Burdette: Inside the Key West Food Critic Mysteries   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor interviews Lucy Burdette, the author behind the Key West Food Critic Mysteries. The conversation delves into how Burdette's accidental love for Key West inspired her 15-book mystery series. Topics include the origins of her characters, real-life inspirations, the local flair of Key West, and sneak peeks into her upcoming 16th book. Listeners will also discover Burdette's favorite Key West spots, culinary delights, and unique anecdotes, making it a must-listen for any Key West enthusiast.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Meet Lucy Burdette: The Key West Food Critic Mysteries 02:37 The Inspiration Behind the Characters 06:27 Writing Authentic Key West 15:02 Character Development and Personal Connections 22:46 Introduction to the Author's Personal Life 23:44 Food and Cooking Preferences 24:37 Restaurant Reviews and Key West Favorites 26:58 Impact of the Pandemic on Key West 32:44 Upcoming Book Releases and Writing Process 38:01 Final Thoughts and Fun Facts 40:40 Conclusion and Book Club Invitation   Lucy's website: https://lucyburdette.com/   Amazon Link - Buy Lucy's Books: https://amzn.to/3VsMhnq As an Amazon Affiliate I will earn a commission on qualifying purchases.  Thanks for your support!   Fun in Key West Book Club:  https://funinkeywest.com/fun-in-key-west-book-club/

Romantic Getaways in Key West: Top Activities and Tips   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor discusses why Key West is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. She covers a wide range of activities from sunset sails, butterfly gardens, and meeting flamingos to visiting historic sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home and the Audubon House. Michele also shares insider tips on the best times to visit Key West for romance, where to stay, and how to make the trip Instagram-worthy. Listeners will learn about romantic dining options, fun tours, relaxing activities, and special events that capture the charm of Key West. Whether planning an anniversary, honeymoon, or just a magical weekend, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide for making the most of a couple's retreat in Key West.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West 01:26 Romantic Key West Getaways 03:04 Wandering Wednesday: Exploring Key West 04:06 Top Romantic Activities in Key West 05:39 Best Times to Visit Key West 06:46 Unique Experiences for Couples 13:14 Dining and Food Tours 14:29 Off the Beaten Path Adventures 18:30 Final Tips and Farewell   https://funinkeywest.com/things-for-couples-to-do-in-key-west/

Key West Roosters: From Fighters to Feathery Celebrities   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives into the fascinating history and cultural significance of Key West's most iconic residents — the roosters. Michele discusses how these birds transitioned from being food sources to fighters and ultimately becoming the free-range celebrities of the island. The episode covers their historical origins, their role in tourism, and the mixed feelings locals have about them. Michele also introduces the Key West Chicken Law, which protects these quirky birds. Tune in for fun rooster stories, explore more through Michele's blog post, and join the Fun in Key West newsletter and book club for additional island insights.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West 01:26 Key West Roosters: The Island's Feathered Celebrities 02:44 The History and Cultural Significance of Key West Roosters 04:47 Roosters: From Fighters to Free-Range Icons 07:48 Rooster Controversies and Legal Protections 08:53 Roosters as Symbols of Key West Spirit 10:04 Share Your Rooster Stories 12:18 Conclusion and Community Engagement   https://funinkeywest.com/key-west-roosters/

Sipping Through Summer: Key West Cocktails & Island Vibes   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a vibrant journey through the world of summer cocktails. The show kicks off with a warm welcome to new and returning listeners, promising insider tips on the best eats, drinks, and stays in Key West. Michele then dives into an exploration of summer drinks, shedding light on the fascinating stories and science behind favorite sips, including how cognac has become a summer star. The episode offers practical tips for setting up a backyard tiki bar, featuring summer ingredients like citrus, rum, pineapple, and coconut. Michele also encourages creativity with cocktails, suggesting flavor combinations and debunking common myths about ice and dilution. Throughout the episode, she emphasizes the fun, freedom, and freshness of summer drinks, inviting listeners to share their own creations and join the Fun in Key West newsletter and book club for more island-inspired content.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West 01:26 Exploring Summer Cocktails 02:41 Thirsty Thursday Special 03:27 The Science and Stories Behind Summer Drinks 09:38 Setting Up Your Backyard Tiki Bar 14:41 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts https://funinkeywest.com/5-hennessy-drink-recipes-for-summer/

Exploring The Best Brunch Spots in Key West   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives deep into the best brunch options Key West has to offer. Michele discusses iconic must-visit spots like Blue Heaven and Bagatelle, as well as hidden gems like Moondog Cafe and Anna's Cafe. The episode also covers brunch cruises and local favorites, making sure to highlight a variety of options for every type of brunch lover. Michele invites listeners to share their favorite brunch spots and reminds them to check out the Fun in Key West blog for more detailed guides. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of lazy mornings by the ocean, this episode provides a comprehensive guide to enjoying brunch in Key West.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West 01:26 Best Brunch Spots in Key West 04:18 Iconic Brunch Locations 06:36 Brunch with a View 09:40 Hidden Gems and Local Favorites 14:48 Wrapping Up Your Key West Brunch Adventure https://funinkeywest.com/best-brunch-in-key-west/

Unveiling Bruce Hall: Key West's Resilient Historical Gem   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a deep dive into the history of Bruce Hall, the last remaining structure of the historic Ruth Hargrove Seminary. Michele explores the building's multifaceted past, from its roots as an educational hub in 1889, to serving as a wartime hospital during both World Wars, and later transitioning into a Navy commissary and ultimately back to an educational facility. This journey through Bruce Hall reflects the resilience, innovation, and sense of community in Key West, making it an essential stop for any history enthusiast. Michele also encourages listeners to explore other historic markers in Key West and offers practical tips for a self-guided tour on funinkeywest.com.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Exploring Bruce Hall: A Hidden Gem 02:27 Historic Marker Monday: Discovering Bruce Hall 07:44 The Evolution of Bruce Hall 08:59 Full Circle: Bruce Hall's Return to Education 10:52 Exploring Key West's Historic Markers 11:40 Join the Fun in Key West Community 12:38 Conclusion: Keep Exploring Key West https://funinkeywest.com/bruce-hall/

Key West's Best Lunch Spots Revealed   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor provides an insider's guide to the best lunch destinations in Key West. From iconic eateries on Deval Street to hidden gems, Michele covers a wide array of culinary delights including Cuban cuisine, fresh seafood, and hearty comfort food. The episode highlights notable spots such as Garbos Grill, Blue Heaven, Eaton Street Market, and many more. Michele also invites listeners to share their favorite lunch spots and keeps them informed about additional guides and resources available on the Fun in Key West website.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West 01:26 Epic Lunch Spots in Key West 05:12 Iconic Eateries and Hidden Gems 07:24 Exploring Beyond Key West 07:59 Cuban Cuisine and Local Favorites 10:44 Special Mentions and Tips 19:02 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts   https://funinkeywest.com/best-lunch-in-key-west/

Exploring Key West's Iconic Conch Fritters: A Tasty Island Adventure   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives into the delicious world of Key West conch fritters. Listeners get an insider's guide to the best places to savor this iconic island snack, from Louis's Backyard to Hogfish Bar and Grill. Michele also shares the history and cultural significance of conch fritters, along with tips on what makes a great fritter and which dipping sauces to try. Listeners are encouraged to share their favorite spots and join the conversation. The episode also highlights additional foodie guides and resources available on funandkeywest.com, including a book club and happy hour recommendations.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West 01:26 Key West Conch Fritters: A Culinary Journey 06:03 Top Spots for Conch Fritters in Key West 11:22 Conch Fritters: Tips and Tricks 14:18 Explore More with Fun in Key West 15:51 Final Thoughts and Farewell   https://funinkeywest.com/best-conch-fritters-in-key-west/

Tequila & Tiki Bars: Elevate Your Summer Cocktails   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor guides listeners through the vibrant world of tequila cocktails, perfect for enhancing any backyard tiki bar setup. Michele delves into the history and varieties of tequila, from Blanco to Reposado to Añejo, and offers practical tips for selecting the right bottle. The episode features recipes for classic margaritas, skinny margaritas, ranch water, Paloma cocktails, and more, including mocktail options for non-drinkers. Michele also shares tips for setting up a tiki bar, highlights the importance of using fresh ingredients, and encourages listeners to explore more recipes and cocktail tips at funandkeywest.com. This episode is a treasure trove of advice for cocktail enthusiasts eager to impress at their next gathering.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Tequila Cocktails 101 08:30 Setting Up Your Backyard Tiki Bar 15:29 Mocktails: Fun Without the Hangover 21:23 Join the Fun in Key West Community 23:08 Wrapping Up: Keep It Key Westie   https://funinkeywest.com/light-tequila-drink/

Discovering the Rich Cigar History of Key West   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor delves into the intriguing history of Key West's cigar industry. She explores how Key West was transformed into the cigar capital of the world in the late 19th century by Cuban exiles and their expertise in hand-rolling cigars. Michele provides fascinating insights into key figures like William Wall and pivotal locations like Green Street, and discusses the cultural impact that the cigar industry has had on the island. She also highlights the lingering Cuban influence in Key West's food, music, and remaining cigar shops while offering practical tips for visitors interested in exploring this rich history.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West! 01:26 Diving into Key West's Cigar History 02:38 The Rise of Key West as the Cigar Capital 04:49 Cuban Influence and the Decline of the Cigar Industry 10:23 Exploring Key West's Cigar Legacy Today 14:38 Final Thoughts and Fun Facts 16:37 Stay Connected with Fun in Key West   https://funinkeywest.com/