THE GARDEN HOUSE - ADULT ONLY, Key West

The Garden House sits on a quiet street in the heart of Key West, yet is just blocks from the action on Duval Street, the Key West Express, and the harbour. Within a short walk are restaurants such as Pepe's Cafe, Cero Bodega, and Cuban Coffee Queen. The location is walkable to most attractions, making a car unnecessary for many. For those arriving by air, taxis and Uber are the main options (wait times 2-10 minutes). The property's central position also means free street parking can be found with some patience, though paid on-site parking is available for $30 per night.

Rooms are compact and best suited for travellers prioritising location over space. King rooms can feel particularly tight, with less than 12 inches between the bed and the wall, making a queen bed a better fit for comfort. All rooms include a private bathroom, air conditioning, an electric kettle, flat-screen TV, and ironing facilities. Furniture is functional but may show wear; some rooms lack a desk and closet space. The air conditioning units are individually controlled and can be effective but may produce noise. For light sleepers, road-facing rooms and thin walls can be challenging, with roosters audible from early morning.

Breakfast is a highlight for many, especially the fresh waffles. It is a table-service meal on the patio, which means there may be short waits during busy times. The coffee is strong and abundant. Breakfast choices are limited to the continental selection; there are no hot egg dishes or full American options. For guests wanting a wider variety, several cafes and restaurants (Cuban Coffee Queen, Pepe's) are a 5-minute walk away. The property also offers breakfast in the room upon request and has free fruit available. Pack patience during peak breakfast hours.

The pool is compact - more like a large hot tub - but has powerful jets and is surrounded by lush greenery and orchids, creating a relaxing tropical oasis. There are no lounge chairs, only concrete steps and iron chairs alongside the pool. The pool pump can be loud, which may affect the serenity. The heated pool is enjoyable at night. On-site activities include bicycle rental, pub crawls, and tours of local culture (all for an additional charge). Live music and stand-up comedy are available off-site. The garden and sun terrace provide quiet spots to read or relax.

Services are designed for independent travel. Check-in after 16:00 is straightforward with a door code provided via email; express and VIP check-in/out are available. The friendly staff, particularly the manager Sammy, are known for being helpful with local recommendations and booking tours. Daily housekeeping is available but may not be automatic; confirm at check-in if you want daily room servicing. Luggage storage is free and useful for late departures. The property also offers laundry and dry cleaning for an additional charge. Parking is on-site (7 spaces next door) on a first-come, first-served basis for $30/day; free street parking is available but requires patience. Public transport tickets are available at an extra cost. The property is secure with 24-hour security, alarm systems, and smoke detectors. Payment is accepted by Visa, Discover, and MasterCard.