GO WEST

This month Marty O'Neill follows the sun to one of his favourite places, Key West in Florida.

The sunshine state of Florida has so much to offer everyone. Mickey Mouse is a big draw But the next time you're stateside, hire a car and go south. As far south in America as you can go. Yes, the Florida Keys, and in particular, my all-time favorite, magical Key West. The home of the six-toed cat! Blame Ernest Hemingway, one of the many past residents.

GETTING THERE

I've been lucky to spend a lot of time on this island, which sits majestically at the end of the overseas highway. Bridge after bridge, the islands, or Keys as they're known, go past in the blink of an eye as you drive off each mesmerising bridge. Some spanning seven miles! The overseas highway is a coastal route of some 113 miles long, which connects practically every island in the Keys. The road starts in Miami and finishes at the southernmost tip of the United States, Key West. Next stop is Cuba! You'll see the signs everywhere. It's true, a mere 90 miles away from this little island paradise measuring just two miles by four. You'll pass many a crocodile, alligator, wild turkey, and even Key deer, which are only found in the Florida Keys, as you drive through the Everglades and onto Key West. You can fly down from Miami or Orlando daily, but why miss out on one of the top 10 driving routes in the world?

WHEN TO GO