OVERVIEW of The Mermaid and the Alligator

I stumbled upon this charming 1904 Victorian B&B as I was leaving town on a recent visit and made a point of staying there on a return trip. I am so glad I did because this is now one of my favorites in Key West. Staying at the Mermaid is like staying at a good friend’s house, you know you’re away, but it just feels so comfortable.

When you walk in the back gate to the rear deck, the dogs are lounging about and you’re greeted by Dean, one of the two owners (Paul is the other), a charming laid back kind of guy. He’ll show you around the property tell you about the fresh lemonade on the patio, the complimentary wine in the evening, breakfast in the morning and even suggest some restaurants for dinner. You feel like you already know him.

With soothing music in the background, the rear yard is a tropical paradise of palms, lush vegetation, exotic birds and orchids surrounding a wood deck and a small plunge pool. Just outside the kitchen is a comfortable sitting area with rattan furniture, ideal curling up with a book and enjoying the delicious lemonade or meeting the other guests at cocktail hour.

Inside, there’s a gourmet kitchen, a cozy living room with plump couches and Internet access and a dining room that doubles as the place for Key West information. Many of the walls have been stripped to their original wood planks and have either been left that way or repainted in tropical tones. Hardwood floors and great local art complete the look.

THE ROOMS at The Mermaid and the Alligator

There are six luxuriously decorated rooms and it is hard to pick a favorite. We stayed in the bright and airy Sun Room on the second floor and loved it. Windows on three sides gave a panoramic view of the property and allowed a wonderful cross breeze. The room is decorated in cheerful yellows and whites with oak floors and furniture. Local art adds color and French doors open to your own balcony overlooking the pool and deck.

DINING at The Mermaid and the Alligator

Morning brings a delicious full breakfast served on the patio and includes amazing homemade muffins, fresh juices, cereals and a hot entrée. We had a cranberry orange muffin that melted in your mouth and a wonderful vegetable frittata. I could get used to this.

There are not a lot of frills here, but what you get is well worth the trip; warm hospitality and delightful accommodations.

THE RATES at The Mermaid and the Alligator

From $328 Peak Season Weekend

PROMOTIONS at The Mermaid and the Alligator

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