Title: Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. Reviews, Deals & Photos 2026 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire home # Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4\. ## Photo gallery for Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4\. ![Interior - Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. (Key West)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/58000000/57950000/57941600/57941595/4633fdb9.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Property video](https://mediaim.expedia.com/video/9A1CB9973399C0715D59CB4C219CD018/ae3219ce-0952-4bb9-b801-8c1fafa1d341-thumbnail.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=608) ![Property grounds - Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. (Key West)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/58000000/57950000/57941600/57941595/25579260.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Exterior detail - Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. (Key West)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/58000000/57950000/57941600/57941595/25cff9fc.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior - Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. (Key West)](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/58000000/57950000/57941600/57941595/85e4f949.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Location - Amenities - Policies In the heart of Key West, this charming Old Town Cigar Maker's Cottage is steeped in literary history. With lush foliage and meandering brick walkways surrounding the swimming and wading pools, unwind on your expansive deck with a gas grill or retreat to your cozy sun room. ## Reviews 10 Exceptional ### Entire home 2 bedroomsSleeps 6854 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Washing machine - Dryer - Pet-friendly - Free Wi-Fi ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4\. Former residence of an author and decorated accordingly, this cute cottage is quintessential Key West. Perfect monthly rental has two bedrooms, one full bath plus outdoor shower, is an authentic Old Town Cigar Maker's Cottage and the location of the actual writing of Laurence Shames' famous book FLORIDA STRAITS. Key West is a former home of many other authors including Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams and this lovely getaway reflects that heritage in its decor and lending library! Lush foliage and brick meandering walkways surround the swimming and wading pools. Brand new living room furniture and decor in 2019\. All new memory foam mattresses. Brand new shower head with features, brand new sink faucet, new ceiling fans as of 1/21, newly finished bar area, brand new hot water heater. WiFi and access to your smart network on roku.Other features of this charming home include hardwood and tile floors, ceiling fans and central a/c in every room, a large eat in kitchen with all appliances and kitchen items/utensils including dishwasher, high ceilings, sun room, and an expansive deck with gas grill perfect for entertaining. In home washer and dryer. This monthly rental property is within walking distance to Truman and Duval streets, Higgs beach pier, local grocery stores, restaurants, shopping, St. Mary's Star of the Sea basilica and the beach! This cottage is perfect for a couple's retreat or a group getaway to remember! Professionally cleaned by a third party service after each guest's stay. Book your dream Southernmost vacation today! ## Property amenities ### Beach - Beach loungers - Beach towels ### Pool/Spa - Communal pool - Heated pool - Hot tub - Outdoor pool ### Internet - Available in the house: Free WiFi ### Parking and transport - Parking on site ### Food and drink - Coffee/tea maker - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Dishwasher - Electric kettle - Hob - Microwave - Oven - Refrigerator - Spices ### Dining - Dining table ### Bedrooms - 2 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - Bathtub or shower - Hair dryer - Outdoor shower - Towels provided ### Living spaces - Dining table ### Entertainment - Smart TV with cable/satellite channels ### Outdoor areas - Barbecue grill - Outdoor furniture - Patio ### Laundry - Laundry facilities - Washing machine ### Work spaces - Desk - Desk chair ### Comfort - Air conditioning ### Pets - Pet friendly - Welcoming dogs only - Up to 23 kg per pet ### Suitability/Accessibility - Smoke-free property - Note from host: smoking allowed outside on private deck or patio ### Services and conveniences - Iron/ironing board ### Things to do - Heated pool ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) - First aid kit - Fire extinguisher - Deadbolt lock ### General - Property does not allow children - Unit size: 854 square feet ## Similar properties ![Terrace/patio](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/91000000/90120000/90114500/90114419/4c17ca14.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Old Town Elegance Island Breezes and Poolside Bliss Old Town Key West - Pool - Kitchen - Washing machine - Air-conditioning 10 Exceptional 5 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=90114419&PinnedHotelID=90114419&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Microwave, oven, stovetop, dishwasher](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/114000000/113590000/113585000/113584944/bcfac8a3.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Charming 3-bedroom house in old town Key West with WiFi, AC, spa and parking Old Town Key West - Hot tub - Kitchen - Washing machine - Dryer [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=113584944&PinnedHotelID=113584944&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![A heated pool](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/120000000/119770000/119767900/119767815/fa69e872.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### ISLAND BLISS \~ Renovated 3 BR, 2 Ba in Old Town w/ Heated Pool and Parking! Old Town Key West - Pool - Kitchen - Washing machine - Dryer [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=119767815&PinnedHotelID=119767815&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![TV](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/118000000/117380000/117377200/117377175/dcf764d2.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### LA PLUMA LOCA \~ Charming and Updated 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home! Old Town Key West - Kitchen - Washing machine - Dryer - Free Wi-Fi [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=117377175&PinnedHotelID=117377175&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Outdoor pool, a heated pool](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/32000000/31190000/31189000/31188980/c4d730dc.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Stunning Historic Estate – 20% Off Summer Bookings, Heated Pool & Bikes Included Old Town Key West - Pool - Hot tub - Kitchen - Washing machine 10 Exceptional 27 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=31188980&PinnedHotelID=31188980&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Outdoor pool](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/65000000/64910000/64906600/64906504/8ec1132b.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Another Day in Paradise! PRIVATE POOL! Blocks from Duval, 2BR/2BA in Old Town! Old Town Key West - Pool - Kitchen - Washing machine - Dryer 9.6 Exceptional 8 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=64906504&PinnedHotelID=64906504&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/102000000/101540000/101532100/101532007/87e992c8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Hemmingway's Paradise! Walk or bike to all that Old town Key West has to offer Old Town Key West - Hot tub - Kitchen - Washing machine - Dryer [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=101532007&PinnedHotelID=101532007&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Microwave, oven, stovetop, dishwasher](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/105000000/104410000/104401400/104401336/1b730431.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Hemmingways Paradise Just a short stroll to all Key West has to offer. Old Town Key West - Hot tub - Washing machine - Dryer - Air-conditioning [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=104401336&PinnedHotelID=104401336&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/101000000/100430000/100426800/100426795/a914e85c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### \~CALIFORNIA DREAMING\~ Enjoy an extended vacation in this posh home and pool. Old Town Key West - Pool - Kitchen - Washing machine - Dryer [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=100426795&PinnedHotelID=100426795&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) [Compare similar properties](/Hotel-Search?startDate=2026-03-11&endDate=2026-03-12&selected=57941595&PinnedHotelID=57941595&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2&comparePropertyIds=57941595,90114419,113584944,119767815,117377175) ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM Minimum check-in age - 21 ### Check-out Check-out before 11:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools ### Pets Pets are allowed Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees Welcoming dogs only 1 total (up to 23 kg per pet) Note from host: Pets to be approved by hoa on guest by guest basis ### Children and extra beds This property does not allow children ### Events No events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted Smoking allowed outside on private deck or patio ## Important information ### You need to know This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking. Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation ### Property is also known as Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Key West ## About the area Old Town Key West, a neighbourhood in Key West, is home to this holiday home. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum and Southernmost Point are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park and Florida Keys Beaches. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and The Kite House are also worth visiting. [Visit our Key West travel guide](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Key-West.dx1187) [View more Holiday homes in Key West](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Key-West-Private-Holiday-Homes.d1187-aaPrivateHolidayHomes.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C24.55409%2C-81.79129&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=zPMC2ciOt-EqBrLtdaQAxLOvfdc=) Key West, FL ### What's nearby - ![Higgs Beach which includes a sandy beach as well as an individual female](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6246822/85c3e283-463e-4462-91b6-cddba21dfa39.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park 11 min walk \- 0.6 miles - ![South Beach featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views as well as a small group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6246827/42d13a3e-a933-4e9f-b857-cde9f4314a24.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) South Beach 12 min walk \- 0.7 miles - ![Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory featuring flowers, zoo animals and animals](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6068597/8af8294e-5c8c-4043-8818-b037bf02c028.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory 12 min walk \- 0.7 miles - ![Southernmost Point showing signage](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/501380/6b10fd25-a167-4157-b127-b099a5ff5ea1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Southernmost Point 14 min walk \- 0.8 miles - ![Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum featuring heritage elements and a house](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/501376/3b4c31fa-338d-424b-aa0f-482ad359d16a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=115.61&rh=65.03&ra=fit&q=high) Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum 15 min walk \- 0.8 miles ### Getting around - Key West, FL (EYW-Key West Intl.) 8 min drive ### Restaurants - Dions Truman & White 3 min walk - Morrison's Market 12 min walk - Sandy's Café 1 min walk - El Siboney Restaurant 5 min walk - Moose Lodge 12 min walk ## Frequently asked questions ### Does Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. have a pool? ### Is Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. pet-friendly? ### How much is parking at Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. ? ### What time is check-in at Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. ? ### What time is check-out at Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. ? ### Where is Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4. located? ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Tropical oasis in a former author’s retreat. Sleeps 4\. Reviews ## Reviews ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative. [More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 10 8 - Good 0 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 10 Cleanliness ### 10 Location ## Reviews ### 10/10 Excellent #### Peter T. 18 Jan 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Fabulous The place is fantastic. Very quiet and you can walk to most anywhere in 15 to 20 minutes or so. The house has two nice bedrooms, a nice kitchen with a dining area and a washer dryer. In addition, the house has large outdoor space with a nice barbecue. There is also a common outdoor space with a heated pool and hot tub that are well maintained. The folks in the 1111 compound are very nice. Christina is the perfect host who is there when you need her and makes the place feel like home. We already booked it for next year! ##### Peter T. Stayed 28 nights in Dec 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### David R. 2 Apr 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Author’s Cottage We had a fantastic stay at the Author’s Cottage. The cottage was very roomy and comfortable, and came equipped with everything we needed. The pool and hot tub were excellent for relaxing after a day out enjoying Key West. Christina was super helpful and quick to respond to our inquiries. An all around excellent stay! ##### David R. Stayed 31 nights in Feb 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Peter T. 16 Jan 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### 1111 Watson Fantastic! We booked for next year already for our 3rd in a row. Christina and the folks who live in the compoud are great.. ##### Peter T. Stayed 28 nights in Dec 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### David R. 1 Mar 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Secret Hideaway We absolutely loved our time in the author’s cottage. It’s tucked away down a tree lined path, ending by the pool and hot tub. The pool deck has just been beautifully redone, and the heated pool is great. The cottage is very comfortable, with two good sized bedrooms, an eat in kitchen, and an office area. I wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again, and highly recommended the cottage. Christina was very helpful and a great host! ##### David R. Stayed 28 nights in Jan 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Randy S., Portland, Oregon, USA 3 Feb 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Awesome location with great heated pool and hot tub! This is the first time staying at Christina's home in Old Town Key West and we loved it! It's a gated group of 5 homes tucked away off the street. All of the other owners were great, friendly and outgoing. We felt like part of the group immediately. I love the heated pool! The house is a cottage with lots of light, it's own private deck and it has w/d, a/c, and fully equipped kitchen. Christina is an excellent hostess too! Highly recomend! ##### Randy S. Stayed 32 nights in Nov 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Robert B., Milwaukee 9 Feb 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### We are coming back! We stayed for the month of January 2022\. Great neighborhood and location. Easy walk or bike to virtually all activities and attractions on the island. Yet far enough from the action on Duval for quiet evenings. The perfect spot to see what Key West offers. 2 blocks from the best coffee (Sandy's) & chicken (Dion's) on the island and from Fausto's (groceries). We didn't bring a car and never felt the need for one. Beautifully big deck in the back with an outdoor shower! It is in a complex of 6 cottages surrounding a common pool and hot tub. You will get to know the neighbors. Christina (owner) was always available and responsive. The pictures really don't do it justice. The walk through the (locked) main gate takes you down a lush pathway back to the cottages. It is quintessential old Key West. Loved every day we were there! If your expectation is new and fancy - this is not it. This place makes you feel like you are a resident of the island. Just what we were looking for. ##### Robert B. Stayed 28 nights in Jan 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Evelyn S. 6 Mar 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Author’s Retreat Our stay in Key West at the author’s retreat was fabulous. The condo was clean, well-equipped and the pool was always the perfect temperature. We had our own private back area for relaxation and having friends over for dinner. The common area in the front of the building was a great place to get to know your neighbors. We would definitely return at a later date. ##### Evelyn S. Stayed 28 nights in Feb 2022 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Hannah P. 12 May 2021 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### AMAZING stay - Would recommend to anyone! It is not often that reality exceeds expectations, but that is exactly what this quaint cottage did. Upon arrival, the place was immaculate and stocked with everything one might need from a blender to olive oil to cleaning supplies this place had it all. It is in a gated compound which added a level of safety we appreciated. All of the other compound guests were extremely friendly as well and the place/pool is large enough that we never felt overcrowded. The location is great, far enough away from the hustle and bustle of Duval but also walkable to almost anything. There is a grocery story and great Cuban restaurant, Sandys, within a 2 minute walk as well. (Sandy's breakfast sandwiches are too die for) Further, Christina was a top tier host. Extremely responsive and made the "check in/check out" process seemless. I can whole heartedly reccommend this place and hope myself to return one day soon! ##### Hannah P. Stayed 28 nights in Apr 2021 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Terri S. 31 Mar 2021 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Authors cottage This cottage was wonderful ! It was very clean and fully stocked with everything we needed. The pool and landscaping are so secluded and gorgeous! Getting to know the neighbors was so much fun! Christina was quick to answer any of our questions—I would highly recommend staying in this oasis! ##### Terri S. Stayed 58 nights in Feb 2021 ---