Exploring Key Largo: Your First Stop on the Road to Paradise Join Michele O'Connor on the Fun in Key West podcast as she kicks off 'Wandering Wednesday' with a detailed exploration of Key Largo. Discover Key Largo's unique charm, from the underwater adventures at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to bird-watching at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary. Learn about local tips for dining, happy hours, and nightlife, and get recommendations on where to stay. Whether it's your first visit or you're a seasoned traveler, Michele provides an insider's guide to maximizing your Key Largo experience. Complete with activity suggestions, nature spots, and sunset views, this episode is your ultimate guide to making the most of Key Largo before continuing your journey through the Florida Keys. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:35 Exploring Key Largo: First Stop on the Road to Paradise 02:06 Key Largo Daytime Adventures 14:54 Nightlife and Dining in Key Largo 20:28 Where to Stay in Key Largo 22:30 Best Time to Visit and Travel Tips 27:01 Conclusion and Community Engagement https://funinkeywest.com/ https://funinkeywest.com/fun-in-key-west-book-club/ https://funinkeywest.com/things-to-do-in-key-largo-at-night/

Diving into Key West's Sponging History Welcome to the Fun in Key West podcast, hosted by Michele O'Connor. In this episode with a fresh theme song and intro, Michele explores the fascinating history of the sponging industry in Key West. Discover how this unexpected industry blossomed in the 1820s, peaked in the 1890s, and eventually declined due to overharvesting and environmental damage. Learn about the economic impact on Key West, the influence of Greek divers, and the modern-day connections to this historic trade. Michele also highlights the importance of Key West's historic markers and encourages visiting funinkeywest.com for more information, including a self-guided walking tour, happy hour list, and book club. Tune in for a blend of history, local insights, and a celebration of Key West's unique culture. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:35 Historic Marker Monday: The Sponging Industry 04:12 The Rise and Fall of Sponging in Key West 11:46 Modern Connections to Key West's Sponging Past 14:14 Exploring Key West's Historic Markers 14:59 Stay Connected with Fun in Key West 15:58 Conclusion and Farewell https://funinkeywest.com/ https://funinkeywest.com/fun-in-key-west-book-club/ https://funinkeywest.com/sponging-more-than-a-shopping-trip/

Exploring the Marine Hospital: Key West's Historic Gem In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives into the rich history of the Marine Hospital in Key West. From its origins in the 1840s as a life-saving medical facility, through hurricanes and yellow fever outbreaks, to its current status as condos in the Truman Annex, the building has witnessed a plethora of significant events. The episode explores Key West's ability to adapt and preserve its heritage while offering listeners an insider's guide to historical markers around the island. Tune in to learn fascinating stories, uncover potential connections to Ernest Hemingway, and enjoy the laid-back vibe of Key West history. Don't forget to visit funinkeywest.com for self-guided walking tours and more Key West fun. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Historic Marker Monday: Marine Hospital 02:59 The Marine Hospital's Storied Past 06:46 Hemingway's Rumored Connection 08:02 From Hospital to Condos 09:29 Exploring Key West's Historical Markers 11:32 Conclusion and More Key West Fun https://funinkeywest.com/marine-hospital/

Exploring Key West Through Food: The Ultimate Guide to Tasty Tuesday In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor introduces listeners to the vibrant food scene of Key West through a variety of food tours. She details four main tours: the Southernmost Food and Cultural Walking Tour, the Historic Seaport Seafood Lovers Tour, a Craft Cocktail Crawl, and the Hemingway Experience. Michele explains each tour's unique offerings, highlights their durations, what visitors can expect to taste, and offers practical tips for making the most of each experience. The episode emphasizes the importance of booking tours early, wearing comfortable shoes, and staying hydrated. Listeners are encouraged to interact by sharing their favorite food tour experiences and dishes. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Exploring Key West Through Food 02:20 Key West Food Tours Overview 04:35 Southernmost Food and Cultural Walking Tour 07:27 Historic Seaport Seafood Lovers Tour 08:24 Craft Cocktail Crawl 10:10 Hemingway Experience Tour 11:59 Tips for Enjoying Key West Food Tours 16:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts https://funinkeywest.com/key-west-food-tours-2/

The Outer Mole: Key West's Historic Evolution In this episode of the 'Fun in Key West' podcast, host Michele O'Connor delves into the fascinating history of the Outer Mole at Key West. Michele guides listeners through the transformation of the Outer Mole from wooden docks built before the Civil War to its current role as a concrete pier for large cruise ships and military vessels. The episode covers the Outer Mole's evolution, including its role during World War I and II and the transition to modern times when the Navy sold most of its property but retained this crucial docking spot. Listeners are invited to explore Key West's rich history, visit historic markers, and stay updated on the latest happenings in the island paradise. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Historic Marker Monday Introduction 01:47 Exploring the Outer Mole's Rich History 05:30 The Evolution of Key West's Naval Base 09:07 Modern Day Outer Mole and Cruise Ships 12:13 Connecting Key West's Past and Present 15:33 Upcoming Events and Community Engagement 17:35 Conclusion and Farewell https://funinkeywest.com/outer-mole-key-west/

Exploring the World of Low-Carb Mocktails In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives into the vibrant and refreshing world of mocktails. Whether you're participating in Sober October, gearing up for Dry January, or simply looking for healthier, low-carb drink options, this episode is packed with tips and recipes. Michele discusses the art of creating balanced mocktails using fresh ingredients, keto-friendly sweeteners, and non-alcoholic alternatives. She also touches on the growing acceptance and popularity of mocktails in social settings and offers ideas for incorporating them into your daily routine. Listeners are encouraged to share their favorite mocktail recipes and non-alcoholic wine recommendations. The episode concludes with an invitation to join the Fun in Key West community and partake in the many engaging activities and resources offered. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Exploring the World of Mocktails 01:55 Mocktail Series: Tips and Recipes 06:11 Crafting the Perfect Low Carb Mocktail 09:48 Building Your Low Carb Drink Bar 14:35 Join Our Fun Community 16:23 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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Exploring Key West and the Beach Bum Book Series with HR Gordon In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor introduces listeners to the book club edition featuring HR Gordon, author of the Beach Bum book series. HR Gordon discusses her inspiration behind the series, her connection to Key West, and the importance of Jimmy Buffett's music in her work. The conversation covers her experiences living on the island, her favorite locations and meals, and the vibrant characters that influence her stories. Listeners will learn about the different books in the series, writing process, and the unique way the proceeds support the Save the Manatee organization. The episode is filled with island vibes, personal anecdotes, and insights into the idyllic life of Key West. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:28 Introducing HR Gordon and the Beach Bum Book Series 02:30 HR Gordon's Journey to Writing 03:29 The Inspiration Behind Fins and Flames 06:06 Creating Authentic Key West Characters 07:00 Exploring Key West Locations in the Books 08:52 The Beach Bum Books Series and Charity Work 12:30 Challenges in Writing Romance and Key West Stories 18:14 Book Signing Experience in Key West 20:24 Connecting Through Books 21:54 Key West Inspirations 23:08 Dreaming of Key West 25:25 Favorite Key West Activities 29:16 Writing Process and Inspirations 33:48 Key West Culinary Delights 37:06 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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Key West: A Literary Haven In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor welcomes listeners to explore the creative soul of Key West. The episode serves as an insider's guide to the island, diving deep into its rich literary history. The discussion covers famous authors who have been inspired by Key West, including Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Robert Frost, and Judy Blume. Michele highlights notable spots such as Hemingway's home, the Tennessee Williams Museum, and other local literary landmarks. The episode also promotes the podcast's book club, VIP club, and upcoming events, encouraging listeners to engage with the Key West literary community. Tune in for a blend of storytelling, book recommendations, and island culture. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West 01:26 Exploring Key West's Literary Magic 02:03 First Timer Friday: Key West Highlights 03:34 Key West: A Haven for Famous Authors 06:50 Hemingway's Key West Legacy 11:43 Tennessee Williams' Sanctuary 13:48 Robert Frost and Other Literary Greats 17:17 Key West Festivals and Landmarks 19:32 Join Our Book Club and VIP Club 21:16 Conclusion: Keep the Stories Alive Sign up for the newsletter - get the happy hour list Join the book club Join the VIP Club

Raising a Glass to Tiki Culture: History, Drinks, and Mocktails In this episode of the 'Fun in Key West' podcast, host Michele O'Connor dives into the tropical vibes of tiki culture. The podcast covers the history of tiki bars, starting from the 1930s with Don the Beachcomber, and highlights significant tiki landmarks like Trader Vic's. Michele discusses what makes a drink 'tiki,' from ingredients like pineapple juice and coconut cream to unique garnishes. The episode also focuses on creating non-alcoholic tiki mocktails, offering recipes and tips for enjoyable, alcohol-free beverages. Listeners are encouraged to participate in the Key West community by joining a book club, signing up for the newsletter, and engaging in contests for Key West swag. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Thirsty Thursday: Tiki Culture and Drinks 07:44 Crafting the Perfect Tiki Mocktail 15:20 Essential Tools for Your Home Tiki Bar 17:41 Must-Try Virgin Tiki Drinks 20:22 Wrapping Up: Key West Vibes and More Sign up for the newsletter Sign up for the book club

The Impact of Steam Power on Key West In this episode of the 'Fun in Key West' podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a journey through the fascinating history of steam power and its transformative impact on Key West. From enabling quicker maritime travel and aiding in the fight against piracy to powering trains and lighting up homes, steam power turned Key West into a vital hub of commerce, travel, and military strategy. Michele highlights how steam power contributed to significant historical events like the Civil War and the California Gold Rush. She encourages listeners to explore Key West's historic markers for more captivating stories and gives a shout-out to various local events and activities. Tune in to learn how steam power reshaped Key West and made it the unique paradise it is today. 00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:27 Historic Marker Monday Introduction 01:59 The Impact of Steam Power on Key West 03:25 Steam Power in the Industrial Revolution 05:19 Key West's Role in Maritime and Military History 07:21 Steam Power's Broader Influence 09:01 Conclusion and Community Engagement Sign up for our newsletter: https://funinkeywest.kit.com/765a844435