The History Of The Florida Keys

Author: James Hunt

Ponce de Leon's found the Florida Keys while on an expedition in 1513. On this trip the Spanish did not find any gold, nor was there any fresh water, but what they did find was a large amount of bugs. They mapped and named the Keys primarily as an aid to their ships. They used the Florida Straights to get from the New World back the Old.

The first settlement was at Key West but it wasn't until 1882. This was more than two decades before Florida became an official state. All the other Keys stayed unsettled until around 1874. It was during this year that the government surveyed them and then plotted land for homes and businesses. Although at this time the homes were still primal. The materials used to build these houses were taken from the local beaches and most of the wood was from shipwrecks that have washed up on shore.

The biggest settlers of the Florida Keys were the mosquitoes. The mosquito has been called the king of the Keys. Over the years the residents of the Keys tried many things to get rid of the mosquitoes. The most common thing used to kill these pests were bags filled with woodchips that had been soaked in engine oil and then hung over the water holes during the night in an attempt to kill the mosquito larvae.

In 1912 Henry Flagler built a railroad through the Florida Keys to Key West. This helped to greatly increase the human settlement of the Florida Keys. The railroad was destroyed however in 1935 due to a hurricane. In 1938 the longest over-water road in the world was built. This includes 42 bridges. This opened up the Florida Keys to the growing tourist trade.

Today in the Florida Keys, there are roughly about 40,000 residents and thousands and thousands of visitors that come to fish and swim and sail. Tourists love to come to the Keys to dive in the crystal waters off the tropical reef. Other tourists come to relax in the sun.

About the author:
James Hunt has spent 15 years as a professional writer and researcher covering stories that cover a whole spectrum of interest. Read more at www.best-of-florida-k
eys.info

Florida Key Vacations

Author: N Spin

Stretching off the southern coast of Florida, the 120-mile long chain of islands known as the Florida Keys make the perfect vacation getaway. Home to North America's largest living coral reef, the crystal clear waters make it the premier location for snorkeling, diving, game fishing and eco-tourism. If you're seeking solitude, relaxation, entertainment, nature and adventure, let the Florida Keys provide the ultimate retreat.

As the northernmost island, Key Largo makes the obvious starting ground when discovering the island chain. Known as the diving capital of the world, Key Largo is home to one of North America's largest living coral reefs, making it an underwater paradise for diving, snorkeling and photography. The famous shipwreck of Siegel Grove offers an excellent diving opportunity and is now part of the reef ecosystem. With close location to the Everglades, kayakers can enjoy discovering the wetlands and wilderness area that is home to several species of birds.

As the sport fishing capital of the world, visitors to Islamorada can indulge themselves in the finest game fishing around. The areas knowledgeable charter boat captains and backcountry guides are sure to take you on an exciting excursion discovering nature's beauty and the multitude of sailfish, bonefish, redfish, tarpon and more. Also home to various state parks, enjoy hiking the trails of Windley Key Quarry Fossil Reef State Geologic Site or Lignumvitae Key State Botanical Site. For a good change of pace, culturally rich Islamorada provides great shopping opportunities as the home to several community artists and galleries.

Marathon marks the midpoint and the most modernized island having an airport, hospital and numerous restaurants. Like all the other islands, the tropical paradise of Marathon presents paramount fishing, diving and water sports to its visitors. Unwind while relaxing on the sandy beaches of Sombrero Beach or the palm tree lined Bahia Honda State Park. While perfecting your tan, enjoy swimming in the clear sparkling waters and strolling along the endless shores. Vacationers are sure to enjoy discovering the history and beauty of "the heart of the keys."

If searching for the ultimate in relaxation and beauty, the Lower Keys and Big Pine make an excellent vacation choice. Leave the hectic world behind and enjoy the quiet region filled with quaint restaurants, undisturbed wilderness and history. Hike or bicycle through the trails of the National Key Deer Refuge, taking unbelievable photographs of the deer and abundance of nature. Explore the clear waters of Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, snorkeling and diving to come across over 150 species of marine wildlife.

Key West is a lively city that lets everyone kick back and have a thrilling time while engaging in a variety of activities. Whether it is enjoying the street artists, jugglers, musicians at Mallory Dock, taking part in the revelry of the open-air bars, enjoying cool beverages on Duval Street or enjoying the finest cuisine at world-class restaurants, you are sure to feel embraced by the diverse and electric community. Home to Ernest Hemingway, discover the rich history and architectural gems of Old Town Key West.

When venturing to the Florida Keys, why not consider making your getaway complete by staying in a vacation rental. Big Pine Keys and Key West offer several inviting Florida Key vacation home rentals. Providing close proximity to major attractions and entertainment, vacation rentals allow for the perfect escape of privacy, relaxation and space. Be amazed by the luxuries and conveniences of a fully furnished home or condo, allowing your vacation to be a memorable experience.

A Florida Keys Vacation Rental is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to escape bland hotels and stay in a relaxing environment close to their family and friends. With all the amenities of home at your fingertips, you can have a memorable vacation both inside and outside of your vacation rental accommodations.

About the Author:

Whether its friends, family, couples or a large group, you're bound to find the perfect Florida Key vacation rental on TripHomes.com. Begin your search today for a vacation condo, villa, or home rental that makes your vacation memorable.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Florida Key Vacations

Have a great Florida vacation!

25 MONEY SAVING DISNEY TIPS

MORE DISNEY TIPS!

TRAVEL INSURANCE