Key West - New Year's - Dec 2008 / Jan 2009

Keith, John and Keith - Sunset at La Concha Hotel

This was the second year that we celebrated New Year's in Key West.  The gang this year included Shawna/Keith, John/JoAnna, Keith/Kate/Phoebe, Julie/John, Dan/Kristen/Ari, and Dave (aka #13).  Kristen's parents and Kate's parents also came this time to help babysit the kids.

John and JoAnna at Sloppy Joe's

Accommodations:
Truman Annex Shipyard Condos - These condos are very convenient, located about 2 blocks off of Duval.  We shared a 2 bedroom condo with John and JoAnna.  It had one shared bath, a living room and kitchen.

Kate and Kristen

Activities:
Well, what else is there to do in Key West but chill, drink and eat - and that we did!  We walked around Duval checking out the shops (and the bars).  JoAnna and Shawna went on the Conch Train tour -- it was totally cheesy so we hopped off about half way through.  The gang went on a sailing/snorkeling trip but Shawna skipped it b/c she didn't want to get sea sick.

Kristen, Kate and JoAnna - Karaoke at Two Friends

Keith and Shawna visited with Chris and Steve who live in Big Pine Key and we stayed with them one night.  It was great to see the progress that was being made on the extension they are building to their house (well, it's actually a house they are building).

Chris, Steve and Keith

Of course, the big event is New Year's Eve which we spent on Duval, watching the big shoe drop (yes, shoe, in honor of the gay community) and drinking until the wee hours.  That night we had the best appetizer -- tater tots dipped in hot sauce.  B/c the restaurants are so crowded that evening, we opted to dine in our condos with pizza and key lime pie - which was awesome!

Julie Decked Out for New Year's

Restaurants and Bars:
Crabby Dick's - We had lunch here.

Mango's - We had dinner here.  It has great outdoor seating.  While the menu looks good, the food was not great.

Two Friends - We went here several times.  It has karaoke and with a few drinks in us, we certainly performed.

Sloppy Joe's - We also went here several times.  They have great live bands!

Caroline's - We had lunch here.  Pretty good.

La Concha Hotel - Went to the rooftop to watch the sunset and have a few drinks.  It's a nice place to catch the sunset.

El Siboney - A little off the beaten path and a bit rustic.  However, this is a great cuban restaurant.

The Green Parrot - Very close to the condos.  This is a great bar that the locals also love.

Blue Heaven - It would not be a trip to Key West without going here.  Awesome breakfast!

Dan and Kristen

JoAnna and Shawna at Sloppy Joe's