By: Dana Rozansky
Miami is a city that's often regarded as a vacation spot, and it's no secret why. Our enviable year-round temperatures, sandy beaches and non-stop action make it an easy sell for people of all ages, interests and backgrounds. But for those of us who actually live where others vacation, we consider these luxuries to be the norm. And believe it or not, there comes a time where we need a change in scenery (even when ours is damn good looking). So what happens when Miami locals need a quick weekend away to escape our oh-so-difficult lives of basking in the sun and partying until the sun comes up?
We plan a getaway to Key West, of course! Think about it - no need to book a flight, shell out the big bucks and take time off work to get that well-deserved R&R you've been craving. All you've got to do is grab some yummy snacks (#priorities) + your favorite companion and hit the road. Between the scenic drive and the riveting car games (can't beat 21 questions), you'll be in Key West before you know it.
Having grown up taking frequent trips down to the Keys, I know all too well the struggles of deciding where to stay during your getaway. While the road trip is easy, figuring out the accommodations isn't always such a breeze. Either your go-to spot is booked up months in advance or you end up sacrificing quality and space to stay in the middle of the action, am I right? Well this time, I upped my game and stayed at The Perry Key West, and I'm here to tell you why it's my new home away from home.
4 Reasons to Stay at The Perry Key West
1. Easy on the Eyes
From the moment you walk into The Perry's lobby, you'll catch on to the fact that this place has serious style. It's kind of like the guy or girl who always looks on point without giving off the vibe that they tried too hard...and as a result, you find yourself staring. The Perry's decor is casual, inviting and unpretentious, but if you look closely you will appreciate the level of detail and care that went behind each individual chair, light fixture and piece of art. Each item is eclectic and unique, yet somehow it all seems to tie together with a cohesive look and feel. Quite the stark contrast to what you'd find at any of your decades-old bed and breakfasts on Duval. From the lobby to the restaurants to the spacious rooms at The Perry, you'll have plenty to ogle during your stay.
3. So Close, Yet So Far
Set on Stock Island, The Perry is less than 15 minutes from the heart of the action in Downtown Key West. For those looking to explore Duval, bar hop or eat in town, it's an easy Uber or shuttle ride away. The Perry even provides a complimentary shuttle service every hour on the hour so you an jump into the action at any time. That said, if you're looking for a more low-key getaway where you can take in the tranquility of the Keys without the craziness, then consider The Perry your oasis. While Downtown is easily accessible, you'll feel miles away when you're lounging by the Perry's pool or watching the sunset from the quiet marina on-property.
3. Fun in the Sun
If you're opting for that low-key weekend I just mentioned, that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice fun to do so. Just because you'd prefer to soak up the sun than soak up Long Island Iced Teas at Sloppy Joe's, there are still ways to have a good time while you're at it. When it comes to fun in the sun, the options are endless. The Perry will help set you up for a kayaking adventure, a paddle board excursion or a jet ski outing - and that's just scratching the surface. You can also go snorkeling, fishing or enjoy a sunset cruise just steps away from the hotel. If you'd prefer to catch your rays on land versus sea, The Perry also offers bikes so you can hit the streets and explore at your leisure.
4. Foodie's Paradise
Last but certainly not least, foodies should flock to The Perry for a weekend of unbelievable eats without ever having to leave the comfort of the hotel. I'm here to attest to the fact that you can eat breakfast, lunch and dinner at The Perry without growing tired of the food or having any desire to eat at some of Key West's most coveted establishments. Yes, it's THAT good. The hotel has two on-property restaurants with extensive menus to tantalize even the most discerning of guests. Matt's Stock Island Kitchen & Bar is open all day, and draws in crowds from near and far who have come to experience what all the hype is about. Described as 'American Costal Comfort Food,' there's something for health-conscious pescatarians and hungry carnivores alike. Whether you opt for lighter options from the raw bar or heavier dishes like fried chicken, ribs or steak, you truly can't go wrong. I may or may not have had three different meals at Matt's in a 24-hour time frame (don't judge) and I wouldn't have had it any other way. Below are just a few of my favorite items.
If you can pry yourself away from Matt's for a meal, it's worth checking out The Perry's second restaurant, The Salty Oyster Dockside Bar & Grill. Open for lunch and happy hour, Salty Oyster is a great option for a mid-day bite (think po boys and burgers) or a late afternoon cocktail by the pool. My personal recommendation? Order 'The Squealer' and thank me later. After all, vacation is about indulging, right?
So next time a weekend getaway is in order, you know what to do. Your ideal vacation spot is waiting for you just a few hours down the road.
