THE LAUREATE KEY WEST, Key West

The Laureate is positioned on the busy North Roosevelt Boulevard (US1), directly opposite the Gulf of Mexico - there is no direct water access or beach on-site, but the water views are unobstructed. Smathers Beach is 5 km away and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is 6 km away. Duval Street's shops, bars, and the Ernest Hemingway Home are a 5 km drive, and Southernmost Point is 6 km. A car is strongly recommended because the hotel does not operate a shuttle and walking to attractions involves crossing the highway or a longer walk to bus stops. Several chain restaurants and a Publix supermarket are within a 5-minute drive. The hotel's own parking is free and spacious, making a rental car the most practical way to explore Key West.

All units are suites, ranging from one-bedroom to three-bedroom layouts that can sleep up to five. Each suite features a living room with a sofa bed, a dining area, and a kitchenette stocked with a stovetop, microwave, dishwasher, cookware, and dinnerware - no oven is provided. Bedrooms have sliding solid doors for privacy, and the balcony on upper floors runs the full length of the suite. Road noise from US1 is noticeable on the balcony and in rooms facing the highway, but the hurricane-proof sliding glass doors provide good sound insulation when closed. The bathrooms are modern with large walk-in showers, lighted mirrors, and free toiletries. Housekeeping is provided daily and can be requested if missed. Rooms are air-conditioned with individual controls.

Because there is no on-site restaurant, bar, or breakfast service, all meals must be prepared in the suite's kitchen or sourced from nearby restaurants. The kitchenette is fully equipped for cooking and storing groceries, making it practical for families or longer stays. A Publix supermarket is less than 0.5 km away. For takeaway or casual dining, several options are within a short drive: McDonald's, Subway, Floridita, Toasted Coconut, and Blind Pig - all about 0.5 km from the hotel. For a wider selection of restaurants and bars, Duval Street and Old Town are a 10-minute drive.

The main leisure facility is the heated outdoor swimming pool, which features a shallow end, a fence around the pool, and a view over the Gulf. Pool/beach towels, umbrellas, and toys are provided, and children can also use the ping-pong table and basketball hoop near the pool area. The pool lies alongside US1, so road noise is present, but the water is heated and well-maintained. There is no hot tub, fitness center, spa, or sauna on site. Bicycle and scooter rentals can be arranged through the front desk, with delivery to the hotel; bike rentals cost $15 per day and scooters $54-$75 per day.

The front desk is staffed 24 hours and can arrange bike, scooter, or golf cart rentals delivered to the hotel. Luggage storage is available free of charge, though it is kept in the lobby. Daily housekeeping is provided, and the hotel offers complimentary washers and dryers on the 4th floor with detergent. Parking is free and includes a covered garage with accessible spaces; the lot can be tight during peak times. There is a business centre and fax/photocopying available at no extra charge. Security features include 24-hour security, CCTV, key card access, and in-room safes (some of which have been reported as inconsistent). Pet owners should note the daily $75 plus tax fee per pet, which includes a welcome goody bag, bowls, and a pet bed.