Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada (305.664.4651) reopened last December after a massive renovation that rebuilt its main lodge according to LEED green specifications. The transformation also included an expansive indoor and outdoor lobby lounge, an ocean-view meeting room, two new restaurants and a club floor.
Key West’s Sunset Key Guest Cottages, A Westin Resort (305.292.5300) recently added a new spa and full-service restaurant overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Located on the 27-acre island of Sunset Key, the resort is reached by a 10-minute ferry ride across Key West Harbor from the Westin Key West Resort & Marina.
The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden (305.296.1504) is developing a new wetland habitat for various species, including the endangered Miami blue butterfly, as well as a boardwalk system with wildlife-viewing areas.
The new Key West Turtle Museum (305.294.2633) recalls the island’s once vital turtle-fishing industry, with artifacts, historic photographs and other items. The new facility is located at the site of a former turtle cannery building, beside one-time turtle pens, or “kraals,” at Key West’s historic seaport.
AirTran Airways inaugurated nonstop service between Orlando and Key West aboard a 137-passenger Boeing 737-700. Offered Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, the flights connect with same-plane service from Atlanta.
