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One of the United States’ most unpredictable destinations, the Florida Keys’ southernmost isle is a spot that’s inspired both world-class art and infamous parties. Ernest Hemingway made his home here at one time -- the building is now a museum and protective sanctuary for his beloved six-toed cats -- and Tennessee Williams is rumored to have written “A Streetcar Named Desire” while living in a local hotel. Meanwhile, downtown’s Duval Street is known to host 24-hour street celebrations for just about any special occasion.

What Key West is best known for, though, is its carefree tropical attitude. Surf-and-turf restaurants, cocktail bars and a legion of street performers dot the town, while warm waves and clean sands draw cruise ship passengers for a day of sunbathing. This inclusive atmosphere is extended to the island’s many immigrant residents -- a majority hailing from the Bahamas, Cuba and other Caribbean locales -- who contribute to the lively local energy.

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