Tag: close to cuba

Buoy Oh Buoy!

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I’ve been to Cuba…

And I’ve been close to Cuba.

Approximately ninety miles from Cuba to be exact.

One of the most popular landmarks on Key West is the Southernmost Point. A giant red, white and black buoy marks the spot (24 degrees, 33 minutes north latitude and 81 degrees, 45 minutes) which is the southernmost point of the continental United States, only ninety miles from Cuba. Erected in 1983 by the City of Key West, the landmark attracts travelers by the thousands with a line, for those seeking a photograph, sometimes snaking down the block.

Luckily for us, it was a slow day and we didn’t have to wait long, but, buoy or buoy, it is one of those things that you just have to see!

And can you see Cuba?

Only if you have better than 20/20 eyesight (more like telescopic vision) even on a clear day!

Don’t forget to check out the amazing statue of the Conch Blower, which honors Albert Kee, Key West’s unofficial goodwill ambassador, who welcomed visitors to the Southernmost Point, blowing on a conch shell, waving, and yelling “Welcome to the island!” and on the opposite side, The Cable Hut. Built on the mainland and transported by Flagler’s railroad, the Cable Hut protected the connection between the telephone lines and the telegraph lines which linked Key West and Havana, Cuba.

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Southernmost Point