Take the trip (or walk) out to Pigeon Key. You can catch the tour, or information, at the old RR car on the left at the beginning of the 7-mile bridge (at the far end of Marathon.)<BR><BR>Highly recommend a stop at the Rain Barrel. It's a nice crafts co-op at MM 80-something (before you get to Islamorada.) It's on the right. They have a lovely little shaded garden inside, and a refreshment stand selling tasty drinks and such. One of those little hidden Keys jewels.

We are still trying to get a rental car for the Presidents Week for the key and everyplace is sold out(yes,even FLL).Any suggestions? Also,any place in Key Largo that someone could recommend for one night on the way to Key West?All the chains that I have called for next weekend are booked with the "Valentine " crowd. Thanks-

Just tried renting at FLL through Budget for Feb 17-24. They showed available cars. Not cheap (nor will it be at this late date,) but available.<BR><BR>Go to the web site for the Kay Largo Visitor's Center/CofC. Give them a call, or email, and tell them what you're looking for. They should be able to help you out.

We also got our car at the Budget at FLL. <BR><BR>Thanks for the info on Don Pedro's and Pigeon Key. I'm compiling a list of ideas since there will be a group of 12 of us, from 30 to 70 in age. Then everyone can find something to enjoy!

On our drive from FLL to Marathon is there anyplace you might suggest stopping for a bite. We get in around 9am so probably a place that serves good breakfast between FLL and Marathon that has easy highway access.

In Key Largo, on Rt 1, about MM99.5, on the right, there's a little hole-in-the-wall called Mrs. Mac's Kitchen.<BR><BR>I've never eaten breakfast there. I just noticed, this year, for the first time, that they served it. However, I always eat there Sat. night (we always get into Key Largo Sat. PM.) They're closed Sunday. And Monday, we hang around long enough for them to start serving lunch. And have it there before going on south.<BR><BR>Awesome fish sandwiches. And onion rings. Only thing I'd avoid are the conch fritters--sometimes great, sometimes not. <BR><BR>I'd assume the breakfast would be on a par with their other meals.<BR><BR>I'm drooling, er, salivating again....

In Islamaroda there is a small Cuban place called Manny & Isa's good food. The Islamaroda Fish Company has a great outdoor deck but lately the food has been kinda iffy....

A couple more questions- sorry!<BR><BR>Have any of you eaten at Marker 88 Restaurant. The menu looks really good but gives no indication of prices. Pricey or super pricey??<BR><BR>Also for those who have used all or some do you think It's a Dive, Looe Key Dive Center, Amoray Dive Center or Hall's Diving is best for beginner dives?<BR><BR>As always--- THANKS!

Go with Looe Key Dive Center. Maker 88 restaurant is great. Make reservations & enjoy the Florida Bay sunset with your romantic diner. It can be a bit expensive but you be glad you did. Its just about 10 miles on your right after leaving Key Largo city limits.

For a rental car in Ft. Lauderdale, I suggest looking into Royal Rent-a-Car. Their website is royalrentacar.com. I am going down to FLorida next week, and haven't experienced them first hand yet, but because they are local, they are cheaper. They also have a counter at the airport.

ttt

Julie-I fly into FLL regularily and have never heard of Royal Rent A Car. I would be very leery of renting from them. A lot of these el cheapo companies quote you a very attractive price and then they charge you for extra dollars, mileage, gas, insurance. Been there, done there. Now, I only rent from a reputable company. Last time I was there I rented from Avis. If you belong to AAA or check if you can get an employee disount.

Julie-That should be charge for extra drivers not dollars.

Thanks for everyone's recommendations! I'm leaving tonight! wahoo! sunshine here I come!<BR><BR>Wendy