KeyWestCheap

Southwest Airlines shareholders approve merger

Potential good news for those looking for cheap flights to Key West today when Southwest Airlines shareholders voted to approve the proposed merger with Air Tran which currently serves Key West with flights from Atlanta and Orlando.  The Southwest merger means a potential bonanza for Key West as the Southwest route system of discounted seats is the largest in America.  This greatly expands the number of discounted air line seats  to Key West.  In another bit of good news this week, BahamasAir announced flights from the middle Keys airport in Marathon to Nassau via Ft. Lauderdale, Fl.   Great news also because flights tend to mean fewer cars on our narrow, slow roads.  Less noise, fumes and more paradise.  Keep the good travel news coming!

Cheap Chic Birthdays

Celebrating your birthday anywhere in Florida (actually anywhere in the U.S.A., just select your state on the drop down menu) and review the places that offer specific discounts and free things to people celebrating their birthdays.

"What can you get free for your birthday? Find local businesses and restaurants offering birthday freebies or birthday discounts to adults, kids and pets! No membership required to browse birthday deals! "  

In Key West, Denny's (there are 2) offer Free Grand Slams.  

The FREE BIRTHDAY TREATS website is something you much check on your birthday and live it up.  Freebies and Discounts are available for meals, travel, shopping and more...

Cheap Chic suggests renting a bike!

Let's face it.  Many people go on vacation and gain weight, because they "enjoyed" vacation a bit too much.  Here is a suggestion that will peel off the pounds and improve your vacation.  Key West is a relatively "flat" place, our highest point on the island is only 13 feet above sea level.  The only real "hill" isn't even a hill, it's the Palm Ave. bridge which connects Old Town to New Town and is built over charter boat row at Garrison Bight.  

Another fun thing about cycling around town is that you will see much more of Key West.  You can peddle through the neighborhoods and make wonderful little discoveries.  If you cycle completely around the island you'll travel 12 miles, it will take you 1 hour at 12 mph, which is a relatively moderate pace.  Go slower and take your time, it's your vacation...what the heck.  Renting a bike is cheaper than taxi, scooter rental and traveling by car (and the parking hassles).  

Here is a link to calculate calories burned while cycling.  While your burning calories you can stop at local cafes and create you're own "culinary tour".  Enjoy an appetizer at Azur, enjoy a chocolate, walnut brownie at Old Town Bakery, a cuban coffee at the Cuban Coffee Queen, then a delicious fish burrito at Heidi Garbo's "Garbo's Grill" .  You get the idea.  Move around, see the wonderful neighborhoods of Key West and take it easy.  If you get lost, no worries.  The island is only 1.5 miles by 4 miles and we're surrounded by water...you won't be lost for long.  You might not make headway losing weight, but with this plan you'll likely feel better and enjoy a varied diet and burn off the delicious calories you consumed.  Bike Rentals in Key West are available at the following locations, please let them know you were referred by the Conch Concierge and "Key West Cheap Chic":

The Bike Shop  My favorite because they don't have advertising on their bikes. They are also the oldest bike shop in Key West and all rentals include lights, locks, baskets, wide soft seats and kind, friendly service.

Eaton Bikes

Re-Cycle

Island Bicycles

Key West bike rental prices generally are $10-$35 per day, with many options from beach cruisers, mountain bikes, tandems and trikes.  You can add baby carriers and other accessories.  Don't forget to ask for a lock and lights (a must) if you plan to ride at night.  Discounts are available for multi-day or weekly rentals.

For more "Key West Cheap Chic" ideas like this and to help plan your Key West vacation call Conch Concierge at 305.292.2292.

Key West Cheap "Chic" Free Historic Tour

The tour hosted by Historic Markers, Inc. (I love their slogan...powered by Key West History since 1513) is incredible for both it's thoroughness and simplicity.  You simply go to their website, note the marker numbers and call 305.507.0300.  By entering the marker # you get a brief 90 second recorded message detailing the history of that location.  As of February 2011 there were 23 markers listed, which is plenty to keep you busy for a few hours of walking or cycling through Key West learning about our history.  And the beauty is that it's free...thanks Key West Historic Mark Tour!

My suggestion for a true treat is to hire a pedicab and enjoy a leisurely ride in the open air, sit back and relax.  Pedicabs generally charge about $1.50 per minute, but may arrange a special price for you based on a certain length of time.  Negotiate! The driver will no doubt add a little bit of color to the tour.  But first ask if he/she is familiar with the tour or has conducted similar trips so you do find yourself wandering through Old Town...which could also be fun.