Leaving for Key West ---------any????????????????

[snelsonbrown]

Hello there - Norm and I will heading out to Key West next Wednesday until Monday (July 1st) ---I will be checking out everything that I can that will help those going on the Western cruise -----------NOW are there any questions I can try to answer before going down there? Does anyone want me to check out anything in particular? I have started this thread early so I can write everything down so when I come back, can answer everyone's questions to the best of my ability - I also have friends that have shops in Key West and I want to see what they can do for those that take the Western Cruise ---
Meanwhile each have a great week ----------
Always your friend
Shirley

[wovenwonder]

No questions here -- as I do not have any DCL vacations planned;) . Just wanted to wish you and Norm a wonderful, relaxing vacation!
:p

[iluvorlando]

Hi Shirley,

We are planning on going on the Western in March, 2004. What is good for a family to do in Key West, and what are the "don't miss" things to do?

Thanks!
Michele

[Ashley24]

Someone mentioned something about performing cats? Or cats with extra toes? Any information would be appreciated!
Ann

[SJCSuzy]

Shirley,

If you could find any info about renting jet skis I would be most appreciative. Someone said they rented some and they took a 2 hour tour. Could you find out which company might offer something like that and if there are any age/weight restrictions? Thanks for all your help, I hope you and Norm have a great time "back home".

[mmouse37]

Have a great time Shirley!!!!

MJ

[snelsonbrown]

Wovenwonder ------thank you luv for your kind words - Norm's daughter Christy lives in KW along with his step sons and grandsons that he has to see - me I go down to check on my family and of course take care of the family plot at the cementary -
that is a quest in itself but I really enjoy it simply because that graveyard has so much history and the gravestones are so funny.

Michelle - I have pamplets etc on KW - email me at snelsonbrown@aol.com and will give you all the info you would like and besides am bringing back a lot more info.

Ashley - the performing cats are Mallory Square where the Magic would be -they are very good and Mr. Cat man is awesome with his cats -they are his babies.

Second the 6 toed cats are at Mr. Hemingway's house on Whitehead Street ----------right accross from the Lighthouse --the cats are decendants from the original cats Mr. Hemingway started collecting years and years ago --Mr. Hemingway did love his cats, but dislikes children -I know this personally.
write me at snelsonbrown@aol.com and will make sure you get all information requested.
Have a great time getting ready for your cruise.
Always
Shirley

[westjones]

DH wants us to go sailing. Are there several options for sailing during the day? What price ranges are there. We are hoping to find one less expensive than the one booked through Disney.

Thanks for checking! This is really sweet of you!
DJ

[WDWLVR]

Shirley,

Here's what I hope will be a simple question for you. When we cruise next May we'll be taking DCL transfers from Orlando so won't have time to pick up snacks & pop. Is there somewhere close to the ship in Key West that we can pick up some pop and snacks to last for the rest of the cruise? I know it would cost a little more than if we stopped on the way to the ship, but overall probably less than if we bought it on board.

Thanks!

[MrsPotatoHead]

Shirley, thanks for taking the time to answer our questions, and for all of the other information you have provided about Key West. :) My DH, sister and I are thinking of renting bicycles there to toodle around the island. Is there a place within walking distance of the Magic where we may rent bikes? Any info on rentals and prices would be very helpful. Thank you! I hope you have a wonderful trip! :)

Susan

[kamgen]

Shirley,
Have a wonderful time! Dh and I are cruising the Western in October!
Could you find out about jet ski rentals and I will need your shopping tips! LOL! :)
Also, is there anywhere to see Manatees or Dolphins in KW?
Thanks Shirley and have a safe and wonderful vacation!

Kamy

[DonnettaR]

Shirley,
I placed an order with you for gift baskets and you said that you would include some brochures. Would any of those brochures contain information on activities for kids as I will be travleling with my 8-yr daughter.

[prymsu]

Dear Shirley,

I hope you have a safe trip. If you could find out if any of the beaches have any snorkeling that we could go to when we are in port, I would greatly appreciate it loads!

Thank you!

[snelsonbrown]

Hello there,
First off being born and raised in Key West was quite an experience ---Norm also was which makes our relationship quite a match --He and I are really looking forward to going down - we usually do not do the tourist shopping simply because as it is said been there done that.
Now Donetta - there is very little activities for children unfortunalty - there is the aquarium right there at Mallory Square - the shows before the sunset are really worth the time - She might enjoy going to the top of the hotel LaConcha and seeing Key West from a bird's eye view - I do not know why KW does not offer more entertainment for kids but again unfortunalty it is too much of an adult playground (I am not happy over it and have spoken to the mayor who is a friend of mine over this) --
The books do have coupons but nothing for children and yes they are in your gift baskets. I am truly sorry that I couldn't help more with this.
those asking about the jet ski rentals, will try and get coupons that will give you something off -will let you know when I get back home --most of all the establishments in KW are no longer owned by KW conchs but outsiders.
Will also do the same with snorkling -my 3 sons and Norm's son are going Saturday morning and they will have all the scoop on that portion.
Norm's son works at Moped Hospital and his name is Charlie - it is on the corner of Simonton and Duval which is about 3/4 miles from Mallory Square - you can ride a trolley to it - get off and go in and ask for Charlie -he will treat you very very fair.
Now as for picking up food, drinks and snacks - real simple - go to the corner of Bahama Lane and Flemming Street -there is a super food store named Fausto's (owned by the mayor) and they have everything you could want and it is reasonable - has to be for conchs shop there and have done so for years.
Now I will be printing this thread out on Wednesday the 27th so make sure you put down everything and anything you want me to find out ---AND I WILL DO IT FOR YOU OK?
Time to check out - we leave tomorrow to take Norm back to Shands for more surgery Friday morn -everyone from the 6-22 cruise ----the only thing I wish was that either I was going down this weekend or you all were going down next week -
Have a wonderful cruise.
Hugssssss to each and all
Love
Shirley

[DCL Repeaters]

Hello Shirley,

You are just the sweetest person!! I do have a Key West question for you. Will the trolley let us off and pick us up at Hemingway's house and the Truman Summer White House?

Thank you!
DCL Repearters
(we're the ones who requested the mangos in the crew member basket you so beautifully put together for us last Christmas)

[Mjasp]

Shirley...Our best to Norm on Friday. I'm sorry I missed you at the Radisson on 5/11. But after all the well wishes and Bon Voyages you wish all us DISers I have one thing to say to you and Norm,

HAVE A SAFE AND GREAT TIME IN KEY WEST. ENJOY ALL YOU HAVE TO DO AND WANT TO DO.

All the best.

Joanna

[Shercara]

Hi Shirley -- Sending prayers and pixie dust to you and Norm -good luck on his surgery. Can't think of any other questions to ask, but looking forward to your answers and suggestions to the ones above.

Can't wait to talk to you again to order our baskets for our November cruise! Take care & God Bless!
Sherri

[snelsonbrown]

Good morning everyone,
I didn't know when I started this thread, I would hear from so many that have touched a place in my thoughts and heart - To each of you - my gosh so glad to hear from you - I always ask for blessings for everyone that has showned me so much kindness - I am blessed - anyhow thanks for the prayers for Norm - seems he just can't finish with one thing that another don't crop up, but have no doubts we are coming to the end of all these trips :)

Now some answers to questions - yep the trolley will let you off at Mr. Hemingway's house and the White House - I have never been inside of Mr. Hemingway's home - I understand it is very pretty - I was born just a couple of blocks down from his street - his wife Pauline learned spanish from my grandfather at the cost of 25 cents per lesson (lots of money back in those days) - my grandparents being spanish, cooked all spanish food and Mr. Hemingway loved my grandmother's cooking - she would take him plates of food to his house - across the street is the lighthouse ---that is a neat experience ---no one was allowed to go into the light house until maybe 10 -15 years ago - President Truman's Little White House - I do not know if the trolley goes by there ---but I am sure it is close enough -- there is a lot of walking to do in Key West - so make sure you dress comfortable including shoes - I have seen women with high heels and men in suits down there -nope this is not Key West style -
Hope everyone stays well -take care and have a wonderful weekend everybody
Love
Shirley

[WDWLVR]

Shirley,

Thank you so much for your quick response. My best to you and Norm. I will keep you in my prayers this Friday.

Have a safe trip.

[SusanMouse]

:Pinkbounc Hi Shirley! Our August 17th cruise will also be our first time at Key West. We are trying to be economical. Are there plenty of things for us to do without scheduling shore excursions? We like to walk and would like to tour by ourselves. Is there enough to do within walking distance of the ship or should we take the trolley/train? Our family especially enjoys animals- what is there to do at Key West that we might enjoy involving animals? Thank You. Have a safe trip.

[Ashley24]

In the DCL video, it shows some people kayaking through some very foresty area (branches hanging low). I believe someone earlier mentioned that this area is very shallow. But I am wondering if there is any reason to be worried about alligators in this area?!? The kayaking looks fun but I think I would be too scared if I knew there were alligators there. Of course I went kayaking in Hawaii and didn't even once think of the possibility of sharks! Should I be worried of alligators in Key West?

[snelsonbrown]

Hello again everyone,
I meant to answer a question about manatees and dolpins in Key West - would you believe I never knew what they were until I left the keys ------as far as I know they are still not down there unless further up the keys ----------sorry

As for animals -the only ones that I know about are the key deer located in Big Pine Key ----it is about 30 miles from Key West - they also have monkey key, but unfortunalty this is off limits ---sorry -the only animals I know that are down there are the chickens that have the run of the city.

Alligators -nope not in Key West --if they were it would be news to me ---------now about 140 miles close to Key Largo there are alligators in Lake Surprise but again I have never seen any ----as for sharks ------another I understand you will see them more in the Gulf than the ocean ---------I know we have gone fishing and caught them, but as far as shark attack --never that I know of in KW ---------
anyone can go to search and look at the Key West citizen which is the local newspaper and it will tell you everything you might want to know -the KW citizen is under the keynoter --Dave has the link-I don't know how to do it or I would --if you will email me I can send you the link :-)
Anyhow will know more when I come back from KW.
Keep asking questions even if you think they are dumb - a question is never ever dumb.
Love
Shirley

[RellingTwin]

Hi Shirley! I hope you and Norm have a nice trip. I do have one question. I saw on the travel chanel about a place to swim with Sea Lions. It is on Key Isadora(????) something like that? I have done some internet research but have come up empty! I would love to know if this was 1) affordable 2) within driving distance of Key West 3) if they have a web site for reservations.
Thanks, you're the BEST!

[inkkognito]

Shirley, lots of pixie dust to you and Norm! You are so sweet to take the time to help everyone out. We can't wait to see you guys again when we return in July. I hope you have an excellent trip!
Barb
Visit the Platinum Castaway Club at: www.*****************

[4crusinransiers]

Hi Shirley, we will be on the Aug 31 Magic in Key West. was wondering is there any nice beaches that have decent snorkeling off shore. Or is the only good snorkeling only availible by boat?
We would not mind having to take a cab somewhere.
If snorkeling from shore is not an option ,then where is a nice beach?:confused:

[snelsonbrown]

Hello everybody - first thank you for all the wonderful support and prayers for Norm - we didn't get the news that we were expecting but maybe next time- in fact have no doubts -
Now Just wanted everyone to know that I will be printing out these request Wednesday night so in order to make sure I cover all bases and leave no one out - also as soon as I get back will let everyone what I found out, what I can do to get discounts for you and also to bring back pamplets of all sorts that I can send you those that want them -
I appreciate each of you a great deal and mean it from the heart.
Have a wonderful and safe week.
Always
Shirley

[Dave_from_Marietta]

Shirley, could you verify what the cross-streets are where the Magic docks? I think I know where the dock is, but I'd like to cross-check it with a map.

Also, maybe you could do some field testing to verify your previous posts about where to find the best Key Lime Pie and Cafe con Leche!!!

Cheers!

[snelsonbrown]

Good morning Dave - will do what you asked and then email me your address and will send you a package with everything so that you will be up on everything - Norm and I are renewing our vows on Saturday afternoon at the end of Whitehead Street being we got married just at the courthouse - this way all our family will be there -----------I wanted in front of where I was born on Whitehead but naw - the end is better -
Hope all is well with you - hope we can see you and yours soon -
Now is everyone else - please if there are anymore questions you need an answer to, just ask before tomorrow evening -
Thanks to everyone for the thoughts and prayers on Norm - we are hoping one more trip to Shands and then life can gone on more calmly - my love, warmest regards to everyone.
Hugsssssssssssssssss
Always
Shirley

[Dave_from_Marietta]

I wish I could be there in person... I'll be there in spirit, Shirley. Blessings to you and Normie.

[Shercara]

Shirley - I too will be thinking of you and Norm on Saturday - how special to renew your vows with your family, and in your hometown! God Bless you both with many many more years of happiness and laughter!

I do have a question about a documentry I saw on TV, about a Bread Bakery in Key West named after or by the owner's daughter? I believe his bread is all natural, and is supposed to be spectacular - almost an art!

The story goes that he was in danger of closing, and the resturants in the area gave him loans - in the form of investing in his business, since they relied on his wonderful products for thier establishments. Now he is quite successful. Any info on it's location - and name -would be appreciated.

Also,

I too would like the scoop on the best Key Lime Pie and Cafe con Leche!!! (Great question Dave -- can't wait to see your updated sight with all the goodies Shirley will be supplying -- I'm sure you will have it all posted before our November Cruise! - Thanks to you both!)


Have a great trip!

[snelsonbrown]

Hello Sherecara,
How are you girlfriend - ok the bakery is on the corner of Eaton and Grinnell Street - can't not remember the name, but will put that on my seek and hunt list - Normy hasn't tasted the bread, but he has been there and it is all natural bread.

on the Key Lime pies - will have to check due to the fact lots of times it is purchased and passed off as the "real" thing - tell you what we make awesome real Key Lime pie, when you get there will have the real stuff for you made by a real KW conch - now how is that for a treat?

cuban coffee oh my gosh ----LaDichosa which is located at 1206 White Street ----when you taste their own baked cuban bread with butter and cuban coffee - you will remember it forever - remember now it is a place where all the locals go but it is worth it -----it reminds me of a place in cuba where my family use to take me as a little girl ----
anyhow will get all the info for you and everyone else -
Meanwhile everyone have a great week and a safe one also.
Talk to you when I get back.
Hugssssssss to you and everyone
With Love
Shirley

[Cheryl N. WI]

Shirley, THANK YOU for all the great info you keep posting about Key West. We are excited to be going there on our cruise in Jan. We spent a few nights there in 1999 and really enjoyed it, even DD who was 5 at the time. We enjoyed the trolley tour and the Mel Fischer museum (do I have the correct name?). We also really enjoyed Bahia Honda State Park and the wonderful beach and snorkelling there! We thought about renting a car and driving there but we just don't think there would be enough time for that on the cruise.
We are interested in any info you could find out about the jet ski tours. DH has always wanted to ride a jet ski and from other posts it sounds like this would be something we could do with DD8 but any info you can find on this would be greatly appreciated!
Have a safe and wonderful trip! Congratulations on your vow renewal!

Cheryl:sunny:

[snelsonbrown]

Hello everyone,
This thread as been so much fun for me especially those that have asked questions about Key West - Just wanted everyone to know I will know or at least have an answer to questions asked - I do want to speak to numberous of business in KW about you as a temp. vistor and find out what everyone has to offer - I do know that places to stay away from but I also know the good places - I read on another thread about Kino sandels - that company has been around for as long as I can remember and they are very inexpensive - I have been wearing Kino's since God knows when and they last forever - also Touch of Gold is right by Kino's and Vinny is an excellent person to see about souviers, tee shirts, gold, silver etc - I have known him for many years and has always treated everyone I send down there excellent and given better prices yet.
Mel Fischer museum is pretty neat - I knew Mr. Fischer before the hunt for gold - was very sorry to see him go - he is missed, but his legacy does go on - well not the same for he use to sit with vistors at the local bars and just be human like anyone else -
Thanks for all the letters and may you each be super blessed.
Thanks for your love and concern.
Luv ya
Shirley
The Key West Conch :cool: