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 review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Would I recommend this hotel to my best friend?
absolutely!
I recommend this hotel for:
An amazing honeymoon, A romantic getaway, Girlfriend getaway
I do not recommend this hotel for:
Pet owners, Families with young children, Families with teenagers
I selected this hotel as a top choice for:
Beach / Sun, Outdoor / Adventure, Great food / Wine, Shopping