by Shayne Benowitz
When I’m hungry, and I mean hungry-hungry, like I’ve-been-working-on-a-boat-all-day-and-haven’t-had-a-bite-to-eat-hungry, usually only one of two things will satisfy. The first one is obvious: a big, juicy cheeseburger. Sometimes, though, I’m in the mood to spice it up and that’s when a heaping plate full of Mexican food is the answer. Read the rest of this entry »
By Shayne Benowitz
With the temperature heating up, I have definitely been on the hunt for some easy, breezy sundresses, shorts, sandals, and tank tops. When it comes to shopping, I’ve got my list of locally owned shops in Key West that always deliver. I love a good find, and it’s even better when it’s a good deal. Fortunately, the sales racks are overflowing at my favorite boutiques. Here are four shops worth a stop.
Blue
This boutique on Caroline Street has quickly become my favorite. Why? They carry the brands that I love: James Perse t-shirts, Diane Von Furstenberg wrap dresses, and AG jeans. That’s my staple wardrobe right there. At Blue, there’s always something brand new, which means there’s also plenty to sift through on the sales rack. I’ve scored Paper Denim jeans, a Polecci silk top, and a DVF summer dress at deep discounts. Right now, everything on the sales rack is an additional 10% off, sweetening the deal even more!
Isle Style
This adorable salon on Simonton Street has burgeoned into a full service boutique with a great selection of sweet, summery items. Their racks are full of Free People and French Connection, as well as adorable hand-crafted jewelry. Sift through the rack on the front porch, which is currently 40% off. This summer, locals get an additional 20% off of all retail. While you’re there, you might as well pick up a little hair product and schedule an appointment.
Evan & Elle
Along with its sister shop, Biton, Evan & Elle is the spot for luxury apparel in Key West. Skim the racks for M Missoni, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Valentino Red Label, and Just Cavalli. There’s also a huge selection of designer jeans, bags, shoes, and sunglasses. For casual chic, opt for a Juicy Couture cover up or a T-Bags dress. The good news is, the back room is all on sale for up to 60% off. Their selection of signature linen casual wear is almost always on sale, too. Don’t be shy, the salespeople aren’t above bartering, so go for it and score your best deal. An added bonus for locals, you get 5% off.
For the casual cool surfer girl, swing into this waterfront shop for your favorites from classics such as Roxy and Billabong to more edgy selections like RVCA and Volcom. They’ve got it all: sundresses, bikinis, sandals, and board shorts. Not to mention a great selection of Ray Ban and Von Zip sunglasses. They’ve also got a sales rack with items up to 40% off. Cha-ching! For a perfect souvenir, snag a signature Fury logo t-shirt for your friends at home.
Shayne Benowitz is a Fury crewmember and freelance writer working on her debut novel. For more travel stories and a daily dose of what’s cool around the globe visit her Wanderlust Website at http://web.me.com/shaynebeth.
By Shayne Benowitz
“Davey, the water is so clear today!” I enthused to my captain from the back of Fury’s parasail boat. Indeed, conditions have been summertime perfection: flat and calm with crystal clear water. Today, it was so clear, you could see straight to the sandy bottom and the blue, aqua, and green color differentiation was in sharp focus. “Of course, this is the first day I’ve worn my new polarized sunglasses,” I added. Read the rest of this entry »
by Shayne Benowitz
Last Saturday boaters had to heed extra caution in the waters surrounding Key West. The Florida Keys Community College athletic department sponsored its 33rd Annual Swim Around Key West. The race headquarters were set up at the Southernmost Beach Café at the end of Duval Street. Read the rest of this entry »
by Shayne Benowitz
Summertime is officially here. The kids are out of school, the days are getting longer, and those dog days are only going to get hotter. At Fury, we were as busy as ever over the long Memorial Day weekend. Read the rest of this entry »
by Shayne Benowitz
At Fury Water Adventures, we’re having so much fun in the sun this summer that we’re giving away an all-expense paid trip to Key West for two. All you have to do for a chance to win is register for our online newsletter (written by yours truly ;). Then just sit back, relax, and dream of all the fun you can have in Key West on us! Read the rest of this entry »
by Shayne Benowitz
Birthdays are my favorite holidays. Mine, yours, anyone’s. I fully support extending a birthday day into a birthday week or even birthday month. Why not? Live it up! It’s your special day. At Fury Water Adventures, we also think birthdays are important. That’s why we’re offering a free trip if you’d like to set sail with us on your special day. Read the rest of this entry »
by Shayne Benowitz
Have you made plans for Mother’s Day yet? Alright, for everyone who’s waited until the last minute to figure out how to celebrate mom, I’ve got a perfect day planned for you. The best way to get a lay of the land and learn about Key West’s quirky history is to take a ride on the Conch Tour Train. On Mother’s Day, all moms are treated to a lovely rose and VIP service. Read the rest of this entry »
by Shayne Benowitz
Brunch has long been a wonderfully informal, free form meal to be enjoyed at almost any hour of the day with a cozy group of friends. It’s the best way to get together after a long night out and truly enjoy the weekend to the fullest. Fortunately, in Key West there are dozens of options for a delicious gourmet experience. Read the rest of this entry »
by Shayne Benowitz
As night descended, tilting in the air,
Mastered the night and portioned out the sea,
Fixing emblazoned zones and fiery poles,
Arranging, deepening, enchanting night.
–Wallace Stevens, The Idea of Order in Key West
Happy Poetry Month! I was delightedly reminded of the occasion when my dad forwarded me the first poem-a-day from the Academy of American Poets at the start of the month. I love poetry and April is always a great time to reinvigorate my interest by starting with these great e-mailed poems. In Key West, the Robert Frost Poetry Festival is an excellent way to celebrate, as well. With readings, open mics, lectures and workshops, the festival has been going strong since 1994. Read the rest of this entry »