Key West Festival Guide: Finding the Perfect Time to Visit   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor provides a lively and comprehensive guide to the festivals and events in Key West throughout the year. Michele emphasizes the importance of checking the festival calendar first when planning your trip to avoid surprises and strategically plan your visit around or away from the bustling events. The episode covers major events from October's Fantasy Fest to July's Hemingway Days and beyond. Michele also discusses the value of staying informed about Key West's vibrant scene through resources on funinkeywest.com, including a calendar of events, a newsletter, and a book club. Whether you're looking for a party or a quiet getaway, this guide will help you navigate Key West's year-round celebrations.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West 01:26 Planning Your Key West Adventure 03:45 Festival Highlights: October to December 06:35 Festival Highlights: January to April 08:49 Festival Highlights: May to August 10:05 Festival Highlights: September to December 10:50 Staying Updated and Signing Off   https://funinkeywest.com/category/what-to-do/calendar-of-events/

Pirates, Shipwrecks, and the Wild History of Key West   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a historical journey through Key West's intriguing past, covering pirates, naval missions, and shipwreck salvage. The story begins in the 1820s with the US Navy's efforts to eliminate pirates in the Caribbean, leading to the rise of the Mosquito Fleet. Michele details Commodore David Porter's pivotal role and the emergence of legal wreckers who turned shipwrecks into lucrative ventures, contributing to Key West becoming one of the wealthiest cities per capita in the United States. The episode also highlights notable sights in Key West, such as the Key West Shipwreck Museum and various historical markers.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Historic Marker Monday: Pirates and Treasure Hunters 05:04 The Rise of the Mosquito Fleet 09:21 The Wreckers: Turning Disaster into Fortune 13:14 Exploring Key West's Rich History 16:32 Wrapping Up and What's Next

Unveiling the Mysteries of St. Mary's Star of the Sea   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a journey through the rich history of St. Mary's Star of the Sea, Key West's oldest Roman Catholic parish. Michele delves into legends, key events, and architectural marvels of the church that has stood against hurricanes and other adversities. She explores its origins in the 1840s, the devastating fire of 1901, and its stunning rebirth thanks to Jesuit architect Brother Cornelius Otten. The episode also highlights the grotto built by Sister Louise Gabriel, which locals believe protects the island from direct hurricane hits. Michele connects the maritime, multicultural, and resilient spirit of Key West embodied in this historical site.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Historic Marker Monday: Key West's Unofficial Force Field 03:36 The Origins of St. Mary's Star of the Sea 08:03 Rebuilding After the Fire 09:27 Architectural Marvels and Wartime Stories 12:52 The Grotto and Its Hurricane Legend 15:01 Modern Day St. Mary's and Community Impact 17:50 Conclusion and Call to Action     https://funinkeywest.com/fun-in-key-west-book-club/

Exploring Key West's History: The Rise and Fall of the Mallory Steamship Line   In this episode of the Fun in Key West podcast, host Michele O'Connor takes listeners on a journey back to the 1870s to explore the history of the Mallory Steamship Line, a vital link between the North and South that significantly impacted the development of Key West. The episode covers the founding of the company by Charles Henry Mallory, its contributions during the Civil War, and its golden age of steam travel before being overshadowed by Henry Flagler's railroad. The story also touches on the evolution of transportation technology and its impact on tourism and local culture in Key West. Michele concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to explore Key West's historic markers and hints at upcoming podcast topics.   00:00 Welcome to Fun in Key West Podcast 01:26 Historic Marker Monday: The Mallory Steamship Line 03:34 The Rise and Fall of the Mallory Steamship Line 09:20 Mallory Square: A Living Legacy 11:57 Conclusion and Future Episodes   https://funinkeywest.com/fun-in-key-west-book-club/ https://funinkeywest.com/category/what-to-do/historic-walking-tour/

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/