Everglades & Key West
 

We will be in this area last half of November prior to boarding a cruise. We have set aside 5 days for this area. What are the must see's & do's. Looking for nature oriented things, places to stay. Renting a car. Appreciate any suggestions. <BR> <BR>We do have reservations at the Flamingo Lodge, any input would be helpful. <BR> <BR>Thanks.

Sharon: Husband and I stayed at Flamingo Lodge and found it rather run down for a National Park. The area is interesting and we took a 5-mile canoe ride that was wonderful. You are a captive audience at Flamingo as it is about 50 miles to civilization, if I remember correctly. Restaurant OK. We rented a cabin, but they also have motel-type rooms. <BR>We drove west (from Miami area) on Rt 41 to Shark Valley where they have a tram tour out into the Everglades that was great. Check the internet for info. One night in Flamingo would be plenty. We've been to most of the National Parks, and Everglades is interesting--except for accommodations would be fine. <BR>My opinion for what it's worth! <BR>Joan

You need to define "this area" a little bit more clearly. The Everglades stretch quite a way and Key West is a 4 hour trip from Miami. Where is the Flamingo Lodge? Do you board in Miami?

Thanks for the info. Our plans originate in Orlando, flying down or driving down to the Everglades, depending on distance & time. Seems like the Keys are reasonably close to drive to. Looking for things to see & do. We fly out of Puerto Rico for the cruise. Options are open. Really trying to decide how much to allow for the Everglades & general vicinity. Upon return from the cruise, we will be in Miami for a few days. <BR> <BR>Exploring our options for So Florida, is there enough to see & do. 4-5 days have been set aside for this but could always redirect for something more interesting. We live in No California & are interested in exploring this area. <BR> <BR>Thanks for your help.

Joan has given you good advice. If you want to spend a few days in th Everglades your only option for staying overnight is to camp or the Flamingo Lodge. As Joan said, the lodge rooms are not very impressive but the are used mostly by eco-tourists and weekend fishermen: both groups tend to only use the room as a place to sleep and shower, and I'm not sure if renovating the rooms and keeping a cleaning/maintenance staff busy 7 days a week would result in any more business way down there- it's a monopoly! <BR> If you are into the nature thing then I would also suggest a snorkeling trip to John Pennekamp Park in Key Largo (say one day), then move on to Key West (say two days) and do the Fort Jefferson/Tortugas trip. That would make a fun nature-oriented 5 days.

how about this....stay in florida city. nothing there but roadside motels... but its a good base for day trips to upper keys and everglades.