Mermaid House - Key West

Unless you are in Key West you cannot adequately describe Key West to another. It has changed over time. Gone are the many head shops, to be replaced by upscale jewelry retailers. The cruise ships come in on a regular basis and flood Truman and Duvall. BUt underneath the posh exterior lies the heart of the frontier town that was home to Hemingway, Greek sponge divers, and Cuban cigar manufacturers.

Many homes have been converted to Bed and breakfasts. Among them are the mermaid and alligator house.I love how the palm trees crowd the small front space as if nature is at war with all the humans have built.

Artist: Paul Rose