The website pictures an escape into a idyllic place of green tropical trees and lush plants (it never freezes in Key West) and quiet corners. The house and outdoor space well surpass the web site depiction, appealing as it is. This is a place to be, not just a place to sleep before going out again. When you do go out, it is centrally located. We left our car parked the entire time and walked everywhere in old town Key West.

We stayed in the Sun Room at the Mermaid and the Alligator in December 2012. This bright room is small with very efficient use of space, very clean and the bed was quite comfortable. Because it was on the 2nd floor, we had views of the treetops which made it seem like you were in a tree house or rain forest. The B&B was full when we were there but it was very quiet. We never heard anyone from the other rooms, nor did we hear any street noise, though this room faces the back gardens and not the street. The B&B might be considered 'off the beaten path' but don't confuse that with being far from the sites. It's an easy walk or bike to anywhere on the island. The staff will provide recommendations for all things and got us bikes to rent which we picked up the next day at the B&B. The Mermaid and the Alligator is different than other B&Bs I've stayed at. It has all the things you'd have at home but couldn't bring along (e.g. beach chairs, beach umbrellas, sunscreen, towels) and no knickknacks in the room taking up precious space. Breakfast is in the gorgeous garden area. The breakfast consists of several juices, muffins, yogurt, fruit, coffee and a hot dish that they prepare. All very good. Geri and Rebecca were very helpful and friendly and handled things quite while the owners were out of town. The two dogs Caya and Havana were mellow and just hung out. I would definitely stay here again and would recommend it highly to anyone else. This is probably one of my favorite B&Bs that I've ever stayed in.

We stayed here for the first time in January 2013 and were joined by my brother Chris and his wife Gail. We had previously spent a fantastic week cruising the Carribean on Carnival Valor and seeing our daughter who is a dancer on that ship. Whilst that was a wonderful experience our stay in Key West and the wonderful delights of the M&A were indeed paradise. We had the pleasure of seeing all the Christmas decorations before they were taken down; an amazing display. The breakfasts were delicious and helped set us on our way each day with us enjoying the different flavoured muffins later on as we explored this historic and fabulous island. When we returned we relaxed in the shade of the immaculate gardens; a wonderful place to rest our wearly legs after each fun filled day in Key West before setting off in the evening for more delights. Rebecca and Geri were very welcoming and a very big thank you to Geri for all her recommended eating places and sorting out the bookings. We never had a bad experience and would endorse Saluté, La te dars, Louis' backyard and Latitude. Finally, we will miss Havana and Caya, especially the latter who never let my husband rest in the jacuzzi!! Thank you Dean and Paul for sharing your "home" with us. Mike and Sally

We stayed here for the first time in January 2013. This is a beautiful house, surrounded by lush gardens. The house was still decorated for Christmas, and looked amazing. We stayed in the Sun Room, which was beautiful, and immaculate. We had our own private deck overlooking the gardens and breakfast area, which we thoroughly enjoyed sitting on. Breakfast was absolutely delicious every day, and quite a variety. Geri and Rebecca were very helpful, and very friendly. The dogs, Caya and Havanna added to the charm! Thank you Dean and Paul for a wonderful experience!