What's the draw on Islamorada?
Jan 13th, 2004, 09:04 AM
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What's the draw on Islamorada?
Tandoori Girl admits to two things: 1) growing up in Florida in the 1960s, and 2) knowing all that's important to know about Florida having spent 40 years here. That said, I'll now admit to another: not knowing what the allure is to Islamorada. Have I missed something?
I've driven through it on my way to Cayo Huesa (Key West) but that's about all. So please clue me in. Tandoori Girl is at a loss to know why everyone's headed to Islamorada! What's the draw?
I've driven through it on my way to Cayo Huesa (Key West) but that's about all. So please clue me in. Tandoori Girl is at a loss to know why everyone's headed to Islamorada! What's the draw?
Jan 13th, 2004, 10:38 AM
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For me the draw in Islamorada is the water. I could spend the rest of my life fishing in Islamorada.
Since I've been traveling to the keys, my first visit was in 1985, Islamorada has changed the least of all the keys.
I love the fact that there isn't a McDonalds or Walmart in Islamorada. I love the fact that I've run into former President George Bush in Islamorda and he treated me like any other fisherman.
I love Islamorada because I can go into a bar at 9AM and order a drink (not that I've done this).
I love Islamorada because it is so laid back, anything other than a bathing suit and flip flops is over dressed.
I love Islamorada because it has the best fishing in the world. I've seen more sea life in the waters off Islamorada than any other place I've been.
I love the 1950s type accommodations and the fact that I could stay in an expensive resort, Cheeca Lodge or Moorings, or I could stay at a dumpy Bluefish Inn.
I can't explain it but I love the feeling I get when I get to Islamorada, get my boat out past Indian Key, set my lines, and crack open that first beer.
Since I've been traveling to the keys, my first visit was in 1985, Islamorada has changed the least of all the keys.
I love the fact that there isn't a McDonalds or Walmart in Islamorada. I love the fact that I've run into former President George Bush in Islamorda and he treated me like any other fisherman.
I love Islamorada because I can go into a bar at 9AM and order a drink (not that I've done this).
I love Islamorada because it is so laid back, anything other than a bathing suit and flip flops is over dressed.
I love Islamorada because it has the best fishing in the world. I've seen more sea life in the waters off Islamorada than any other place I've been.
I love the 1950s type accommodations and the fact that I could stay in an expensive resort, Cheeca Lodge or Moorings, or I could stay at a dumpy Bluefish Inn.
I can't explain it but I love the feeling I get when I get to Islamorada, get my boat out past Indian Key, set my lines, and crack open that first beer.
Jan 13th, 2004, 11:31 AM
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TG: Gotta agree with you. I like Key Largo--the gateway (if you don't count downtown Card Sound.) And I'm even fond of Marathon, the halfway point (although by this time, you're in the Keys--who cares?) And, of course, Key West...
But Islamorada? Right up there with Tavernier and Stock Island. I'd even include Big Pine Key with the latter two, except for those funky little deer...
GoTravel, I guess it's obvious by now I don't fish. And I concede it's a shame--I spent 40 years around some of the greatest trout streams in the country. Fish--I'll eat 'em. But won't lift a line to catch one.
But Islamorada? Right up there with Tavernier and Stock Island. I'd even include Big Pine Key with the latter two, except for those funky little deer...
GoTravel, I guess it's obvious by now I don't fish. And I concede it's a shame--I spent 40 years around some of the greatest trout streams in the country. Fish--I'll eat 'em. But won't lift a line to catch one.
Jan 13th, 2004, 11:53 AM
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GoTravel - I wish I could leave for Islamorada today. Your description is great. I'm not a great fisher, but I enjoy it. Actually, for me, the best part about fishing is hanging out on the water. If I catch something, then I see it as a bonus. I'm also big on casual atmosphere. And I like the ability to go to a bar at 9am. I don't think I've ever had a drink that early, but I like to know that I could if I wanted to.
Jan 13th, 2004, 12:32 PM
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While what is said above is valid, it does not have "the draw" if you are looking for first class lodging, activities (other than boating or fishing) or nightlife. The Cheeca Lodge, which is viewed as the island's best is overdue for a major renovation. Islamorada could use another first class hotel (along the lines of the Casa Marina). The only fun bar I found was the Tiki bar, which was kind of enjoyable because it is open air and outside. Islamorada needs a raw bar where you can sit outside near the water (if there is one I missed it). I enjoyed my trip to islamorada but I did not find it to be the utopian setting described by Go Travel
Jan 13th, 2004, 01:05 PM
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Another vote for Islamorada-well said
Go Travel! I could care less for "nightlife" when I'm on vacation.
Water, boats, and scuba is plenty of action for me! And the tiki type bars!
And the 50's kitsch! One of my favorite places!
R5
Go Travel! I could care less for "nightlife" when I'm on vacation.
Water, boats, and scuba is plenty of action for me! And the tiki type bars!
And the 50's kitsch! One of my favorite places!
R5
Jan 13th, 2004, 01:11 PM
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OK, I'm getting the picture. I've always been on my way to Key West, I suppose. Didn't take the time to stop and smell the roses.
It sounds great -- except for that part about running into George Bush.
It sounds great -- except for that part about running into George Bush.
Jan 13th, 2004, 01:19 PM
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Tandoori Girl, I sort of with you. Islamorada just isn't my kind of place. We stayed at the Cheeca Lodge once and it was OK. But I do understand the attraction for those seeking a really relaxed and casual get away. A friend who goes there a lot calls it "Key West without the crowds and glitz". Not a bad way to describe it.
Jan 13th, 2004, 01:23 PM
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TG, if you aren't a big fan of the water, you probably will not see Islamorada the way I do.
That is the draw with the Florida Keys. All of the keys are so different and exhibit such different charm, everyone will find some place that they love in the keys.
As far as running into former President GB, it is an example of Islamorada. The shoeless fisherman standing next to you with fish guts all over his t-shirt is probably worth a billion dollars or is some power brokers.
A boat is a great equalizer amoung people.
That is the draw with the Florida Keys. All of the keys are so different and exhibit such different charm, everyone will find some place that they love in the keys.
As far as running into former President GB, it is an example of Islamorada. The shoeless fisherman standing next to you with fish guts all over his t-shirt is probably worth a billion dollars or is some power brokers.
A boat is a great equalizer amoung people.
Jan 13th, 2004, 01:26 PM
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Islamorada=Bonefishing It is the most peaceful and the most crazy fishing there is chasing those spooky little fish. Stunning skies over Florida Bay with crystal clear water is what brings most people. I was dreading my first trip but after about one hour I was hooked and I am not your sporty type.
I have to say the allure of Key West is only momentary for me. One night and I'm ready to leave the perpetual spring break there. I've stayed at several different hotels and resorts, eaten at all the better restaurants and I'm still underwhelmed. I enjoyed a few of the gardens and the Audubon house and we have taken any number of people to Sunset on Mallory.
Key Largo is worse. Snorkelling is ok at the Pennekamp reef but that is about it.
I'll take Islamorada anytime. LMF
I have to say the allure of Key West is only momentary for me. One night and I'm ready to leave the perpetual spring break there. I've stayed at several different hotels and resorts, eaten at all the better restaurants and I'm still underwhelmed. I enjoyed a few of the gardens and the Audubon house and we have taken any number of people to Sunset on Mallory.
Key Largo is worse. Snorkelling is ok at the Pennekamp reef but that is about it.
I'll take Islamorada anytime. LMF
Jan 16th, 2004, 03:49 PM
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Tandoori, I grew up in South Florida the same time as you (I'm 48) and I've figured it out! Do you like to scuba, fish and hate shopping? Go to any key other than Key West...LOL! If you love to shop and party, go to Key West! That's it in a nutshell.
Jan 17th, 2004, 09:24 AM
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Islamorada is by far the the best key to visit. Offshore fishing at the hump, bonefishing in the backcountry, eating at Islamorada Fish Company, Pierre's,Morada Bay, Mangrove Mikes to name a few is just a start. The people are friendly and the atmosphere laid back. Some mentioned motels besides Cheeca;check out the Moorings and also the mom and pop joints. Having spent many vacations as a child snorkeling the reefs and oh learning to water ski at the famous sandbar in front of the tiki bar my memories of Islamorada are very vivid. Now as an adult I am fortunate enough to have a second home in Islamorada and as someone pointed out commercialism such as Micky D's or walmart doesn't exist. Why people need to shop while vacationing is beyond me. Exploring the beauty of where you are in the moment is key.
