Key West is one the United States' tiniest and yet most sought-after destinations. Its stunning natural beauty, unique architecture, friendly climate, remote location and laid-back lifestyle are the stuff dreams are made of. Approximately 28,000 residents call Key West home year-round, and another 6,500 make an annual winter migration here to escape the drudgery of shoveling and snow tires. One thing is certain on Key West: sunshine -- and lots of it.

Key West is sometimes called Cayo Hueso, Spanish for "Island of Bones." When Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon first arrived at Key West, he found an island littered with bones from the Indians who had previously lived here. The term "Key" is estimated to be the Anglicization of the term Cayo. The term "West" is either translated from Hueso, or it's meant to explain the island's geographic location.

Key West is a mere two miles by five miles in dimension, 120 miles west of the mainland. Visitors may travel to the island via an overseas highway, by boat, or by plane. The island is nicknamed "The Conch Republic" (and "Margaritaville by singer Jimmy Buffett). Key West is located not far off the Florida coastline. Its year-round temperature averages about 77 degrees, and in fact, the island has never experienced any frost or snow. Unlike mainland Florida, Key West rarely sees rain; its average rainfall stands at 39 inches, so residents are accustomed to enjoying the sun's rays almost every day of every year.

Due to its year-round warmth -- and the "anything goes" attitude that pervades the island -- residents, who represent a great variety of ethnic backgrounds -- have been known to wear just about anything that suits their taste, no matter what their destination. Even the most upscale restaurants shun strict dress codes. Differences are embraced rather than discouraged on Key West.

And as the nickname "Margaritaville" implies, there's always a celebration in progress on Key West. In fact, at the end of each day as the sun begins to set, Key West residents celebrate -- either with a rousing round of applause at Mallory Square, or by heading down to the city's pier to join musicians, street performers and artists as they take in another breathtaking sunset. Vendors sell hand-painted T-shirts, jewelry and other island gear. Visitors are encouraged to find their spot on Mallory Square up to an hour before the nightly Sunset Celebration begins. The popularity of the event doesn't leave much room for latecomers, despite the fact that it takes place nightly. Tourists are particularly drawn to this culture, which makes a daily tribute to the glory of nature. This is a foreign concept to city-dwellers who are either too rushed or too distracted to enjoy Mother Nature's display. On Key West, however, the sunsets are rumored to be even more spectacular than most tourists have ever seen.

Despite its small size, Key West is hopping. Many events take place throughout the year on the island, including several art festivals, fishing tournaments, yacht races, literary events, theater productions and house and garden tours. Another daily tradition on the island is its lighted boat parade, which occurs each day to the delight of residents and tourists. The island's most celebrated occasion, however, is Fantasy Fest, Key West's equivalent of Mardi Gras. This 10-day event, which takes place each October, attracts some 50,000 visitors yearly from around the world. Fantasy Fest ends with a giant parade through Old Town Key West.

Popular pasttimes on the island include fishing, diving and sailing. But if you'd rather meander the island and explore its history, you'll have a full agenda. Key West is filled with historic structures, including the former homes of Ernest Hemingway and John J. Audubon. Former President Harry Truman's Little White House is also located on Key West. Visitors may explore the island's history by foot, bicycle or open-air "conch trains and trolleys," which offer guided tours.

Key West is inhabited by many endangered species, most notably the Key Deer. Visitors are encouraged to ride bikes around the island instead of driving; Key Deer have been known to wander out into the streets and can take the unsuspecting visitor off guard. Those who venture out onto the surrounding waters have to pay particularly close attention to the area's coral reef; simply brushing against the reef may cause significant damage to ecosytems. Key West levies large fines against those who steer their boats too close to the reef.

The local real estate market is active, benefiting both from year-round sales and from seasonal renters. Newcomers to the island might experience sticker shock; a search of asking prices for two-bedroom homes revealed average costs of $200,000 and above. This isn't to say, however, that you won't find homes below this range; and, of course, condominiums and apartments are available for residents seeking lower-cost, lower-maintenance housing options. Seasonal rentals range anywhere from $2,000 to $4,500 per month and up. Regardless of your budget, you'll be able to enjoy easy access to the beach, an abundance of palm trees, spectacular views, gorgeous sunsets, and the learning experience of living amidst a culturally diverse and accepting population.