The greyhound journey to Key West was actually quite pleasurable as far as bus journey's go. This time, it was during the day so I got to see lots more of the beaty of Florida. It was only 4 hours, but passing through 'The Keys' on the only road which connects them at sunset was quite breathtaking. I met a couple of lads on the bus, one from Key West and the other was a chap who was coming to Key West to work for a year. The one who lived there managed to get us both a hotel room at his hotel for just $49, but only for one night. I wasn't complaining as he worked at the Marriot and it sure beat sharing with 10 other sweaty men in the hostel where I was planning to go for. I was actually very tired, so a double bed was very appealing at this moment in time. We both graciously accepted. The night went very quickly and before I knew it, I was checking into what must have been the dirtiest hostel I have ever stayed in! Still, beggars can't be choosers, and even though I was far too handsome to even look at the place, it was my home for the next few nights. The first couple of days in Key West were a little disappointing as I tried to get my bearings and find my feet. I did lots of walking around the 2x4 mile island (i.e. all of it - twice!!) and it did have some beautiful parts, but my overall impression was not what I had expected it to be. There aren't really any beaches to speak of in Key West and there is a distinct 'fishy' smell about the place which I have been reliable informed is the seaweed, not the inhabitants!! The following day I spent down at the pool after deciding that I wasn't going to go in the ocean through fear of contamination. That evening the pool resort had a party which is where my time in Key West became MUCH more interesting. It was at this party where I met Danny and PJ, whose photo's will appear on this site as soon as I can work the damn thing out. They were definitely the nicest people you could possible want to meet on holiday. I basically went on to spend the rest of the week with them, lazing by the pool, going out at night and most of all getting completely trashed and making fools of ourselves!! Not sure if I should mention too much about the early morining skinny dipping at the pool!! Anyway, I had a blast in Key West. I even got a guided tour of the island in a police car (don't panic Mum I wasn't arrested!) as all of the locals are 'overly' friendly they just want to accommodate you. I think it's worth saying a big thank you to Heidi and May too for making me laugh. I left Key West a few days early after being offered a ride back up to Miami, so I headed off up there for a few days to experience some of the restaurants, cafe's, clubs, bars and a sample of the Cuban lifestyle. I tried all sorts of Cuban food, including croquetas, empanadas and also patellitos (Guava & minced beef). I hope that I spelt all of those right, but if I didn't attempt it, my good friend Danny would never forgive me!! Thanks for the experience Danny and introducing me to your lifestyle - I had a blast!! I actually left Miami early because I got the opportunity to stay with Danny's family's house in Key Largo, so my next postcard will be from there. Missing you all loads. Stephen xxx