The Florida Keys - For a Diverse Island Getaway with Plenty of Sun

Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West are all part of the famous Florida Keys, Florida's most diverse island getaway. Traveling down the Overseas Highway that connects the Florida Keys to the mainland is an attraction in itself. Going from island to island you can expect fishing and diving to snorkeling and water sports. No matter which Island you are on there is always the opportunity to lounge by the ocean with a drink in your hand or watch the wildlife or spend some time at some of the famous bars and restaurants. Discovering the Florida Keys by passing through each island is what many are inspired to do. One you get there, you won't want to go home.
    
The Albury House, found at 91.7 Oceanside, is a store that sells antiques and collector's items. The home was built in 1913, and the designer of the home had the interesting idea to build it so that it would float if a hurricane threatened the area with flooding. The home absolutely did float. During a hurricane that hit on Labor Day of 1935, the Albury House floated down the street and smashed into the Key Largo train station, knocking it over to its side. Eventually the floodwaters drew back and the house settled right on top of the sideways train station. The old building is still graced by  the presence of guests, making it one really well-built home with a bit floating history.  

Diving and snorkeling are two of the main activities of the Keys area, and it's hard not to try them, as the Keys have over 10 different natural reefs, as well as shipwrecks that have become artificial reefs with time. The colourful underwater worlds off the coast are easily viewed even if you don't want to get into the cool water because the Keys are the birthplace of the famous glass-bottom boats that frequently run tours over the various large reefs. The Molasses Reef stands out among the rest; it spans over 17 acres, making it the number one choice for every level of diver and snorkeler.        

Swimming alongside dolphins increasingly attracts more visitors looking for a rare experience, especially in Key Largo where there are two companies that specialize in this fun treat. These two companies let you get up close and personal with the dolphins, even spending some one-on-one time while participating in structured swims. They also have similar programs with California sea-lions, except you don't swim with them - what you do more closely resembles high fives and signing commands, but it still makes for an exciting up-close encounter.       

There are many more intriguing things to do in the Florida Keys, but it's hard to get to all the magnificent attractions. Visitors should try some of the more unusual sights, like the small Diving Museum in Islamorada, for example, which has a “Helium Bar” where you can suck down as much helium as your heart desires. The museum's main goal is to tell the tale of how man's journey to the depths of the sea started and how it has evolved. The museum is home to the largest collections of diving helmets and artifacts, like scuba knives, hoses, and some of the first scuba suits in the world. Whatever it is that will captivate your desires, you can find it somewhere on the islands. Just don't forget to bring an extra suitcase for souvenirs and the sea shells you've collected during your stay; you're sure to find many things you want to take home with you for the mantelpiece, aside from all the photos that will become part of your collection.