I was convinced I wanted to stay at one of the big resorts on Key West. But I compromised by agreeing to Alexander's and wow am I glad I did.

It was the perfect size. We booked room 15 on the second floor overlooking the leafy canopy and the pool. French doors opened onto a wonderful little porch. The huge bed and modern facilities were a great mix. I kept thinking we had wandered onto the set of that Ethan Allen 'Hemingway Collection' TV advert.

Breakfast daily from 8:30 to nearly 12:00 was perfect for our schedule and the food was a joy...fresh fruit, yogurt, eggs, granola, and more wonderful fresh fruit...all served pool side.

Free happy hour from 4:30 to nearly 7:00...another joy. Truthfully we didn't pay for a single drink the entire time we were on Key West. And no need to get out of the pool the wonderful staff ensures they are reading your mind and those drinks continue coming pool side.

Its definately a gay B&B, but its not cruisy. I am sure the Island House (directly across the street) is fun for some...but I would have felt uncomfortable staying there. We dropped in for a late lunch and it was fun (and did see some hot guys) but I really just wouldn't have enjoyed staying there much longer (think bathhouse meets gay B&B). Still if that is your scene...Alexander's is directly across the street and you can get a discount day pass to go and enjoy that scene...but still have the restful retreat at Alexander's.

Alexander's is also very couple friendly. My partner and I felt so welcomed and made new friends everyday over breakfast, the pool, and happy hour. While we didnt have any straight friends with us, I don't think they would have felt out of place either. Its an open and positive experience for everyone.

Now the the best part of all: the staff. WOW WOW WOW WOW. Honestly I cannot rave about the staff enough. We wanted to jet ski, to go snorkeling, to find a beach for the day, rent bikes...we didn't want to find places to eat on our own. They did it ALL...including personalized maps, phone calls, reservations...we didn't lift a finger. They got us into anywhere and onto every list. And each time we needed a recommendation their's was SPOT ON. Specifically I have to say Michael was an angel. Not to sound too gay, but he literally did anticipate our ever wish...even fullfilling some before we knew we were wishing them. Philippe too was freaking fantastic....he shared his 'secret' jet ski tour and we seriously had the time of our lives.

Bottom line...if you are gay or gay friendly and not looking for the 24/7 cruisy kind of vacation....skip right down Fleming Street to Alxander's Guesthouse and tell 'em Travis and Curtis sent you.

This is my third time at Alexander's Guest house, and it keeps blowing me away every time.

The staff Laura, Philippe and Mike are incredible, the rooms very sexy and comfy, and it is all surrounded by the quintessential Key West private garden.

Each time I've enjoyed the company of other nice guests, a well balanced mix of boys and girls, straights and not so straight, young and young at heart.

The bartender / host Michael throws one awesome happy hour! Say hello from Bill and Manuel in Miami the next time he hands you a Piña Colada!

How do I begin to tell you how much we like this place. First we are lucky that our closest friends have birthdays arount July and August, which is the reason why we go to Key West during that month. This time it happend to be my 65th birthday celebaration and my partner decided to have it at Alexander's. i can not tell you how helpful the entire staff was to make my day fabulous. For the occation we had 21 people all staying at the house at the same time paticipating in the festivities, We have already book the entire house next year for the Anniversary of two of our friends.
The rooms are fantiastic, each has its own character. The grounds are very pretty with lovely vegetation. The Staff, i do not want to name anyone in particular for fear I miss someone, all are there only to make your stay memorable. I can not say enough, reservations to restaurants are always prompt and they make miracles accomodating your time schedule, and 21 people is hard to please and we had fabuous dinner around town. Just check it our it is a treat.

We stayed at Alexander's in mid-June 2008. There is no doubt that this is the friendliest small inn my partner and I have ever stayed in. Everyone went out of their way to ensure that our stay was delightful. The garden and pool area are lovely, as are the breakfast included in the price and the happy hour.

Alexander's is located in a pleasant neighborhood near a vareity of restaurants that can be accessed by foot. There is no need for a car in Key West. You can either walk or rent a bike which Alexander's will arrange for you. If you grow weary of walking, grab a taxi.

We stayed in the least expensive room located on the top floor. If you have trouble with stairs, this is not the room for you. Although tucked under the eaves, everything you need is there, including a small refrigerator. The rooms are spotlessly clean. Next time, I will spring for a room on a lower floor!

It is important to note that this a gay friendly inn--the emphasis is on friendly. We made friends from England, Germany as well as the US. Although we were happy to get to a less humid climate, we were sorry to say goodbye to our friends at Alexander's!