Finding Peace and Tranquility at Patch of Heaven Sanctuary: A Hidden Gem in Homestead, Florida

Patch of Heaven Sanctuary  is a non-profit nature preserve located in the Redlands area of South Florida. This sanctuary covers 20 acres of land, and it is a beautiful example of the region's natural beauty. The preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and other small animals. Visitors can explore the sanctuary's tropical hardwood hammocks, lush gardens, and historic structures, which offer a glimpse into the area's rich history.

One of the most unique aspects of Patch of Heaven Sanctuary is its focus on nature-based mindfulness experiences. The sanctuary offers a variety of programs and activities designed to help visitors connect with nature and find inner peace. These activities include guided meditation sessions, yoga classes, and nature walks. Many visitors find that these activities help them to reduce stress, improve their mental and emotional well-being, and deepen their connection to the natural world.

Patch of Heaven Sanctuary also hosts a variety of retreats, gatherings, and events throughout the year. These events offer visitors the opportunity to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and enjoy the sanctuary's natural beauty. The sanctuary is also a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions, with its beautiful gardens and historic structures providing a picturesque backdrop for any event.

Patch of Heaven Sanctuary also hosts a variety of retreats, gatherings, and events throughout the year. These events offer visitors the opportunity to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, and enjoy the sanctuary's natural beauty. The sanctuary is also a popular venue for weddings and other special occasions, with its beautiful gardens and historic structures providing a picturesque backdrop for any event.

As a non-profit organization, Patch of Heaven Sanctuary relies on donations and volunteers to maintain and improve the sanctuary. Visitors can support the sanctuary by making a donation, volunteering their time, or participating in one of the sanctuary's fundraising events. By doing so, they can help ensure that this beautiful and peaceful sanctuary remains a natural treasure for generations to come.

Address:

21900 SW 157th Avenue

Miami, FL 33170

Hours: Open to the public Wednesday - Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission: 

Adults: $20

Children 12 and under: $10

 

Guided tours are by appointment only. Tours are $35 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.

In addition to tours, the Sanctuary hosts special events throughout the year.

Enjoy you trip! 

            Sherri

Bahia Honda State Park Post-Hurricane Irma (2019): A Look at the Aftermath

This was our first trip to the Florida Keys since hurricane Irma. Driving though, it looks like the middle keys were hit the hardest. The Key Largo (upper) and the Key West (lower) ends do not appear to have had much damage and look the same as on our previous trips.

 Islamorida (the Middle area) has done an amazing job on restoring and rebuilding, but the palm trees and tropical foliage are gone.

 Bahia Honda has always had the most beautiful beach areas in the Florida Keys and we were going there to do a photoshoot. We were sad to see that most of the park was closed and that the Hurricane had hit it hard. All the beautiful palm trees were gone. Regardless.... It was still beautiful and we had fun with the photoshoot anyway.

* Post from previous trips if you want to see more before the hurricane.
https://www.livelifebehappytravel.com/2017/01/bahia-honda-state-park-florida-keys.html

Happy Travels!

Discovering Homestead, Florida: Top Things to Do While Exploring

 Between Miami and the Florida Keys is the often overlook town of Homestead, Florida. I know some people stop over for the night on the way to the Keys, but very few take the time to explore the area.

We were traveling from Naples to Key largo and had most of a day to do nothing, so we decided to take a look around Homestead. Our first stop was the Coral Castle. I had read where some people thought it was a waste of money, but we loved it. You can find my post about our visit here.

After leaving the Coral Castle, we headed to find a Buddhist temple that was hidden about eight mile out of town in the middle of a farming community. We passed so many crop farms. Once you get about a quarter of a mile from the main downtown area, farms are all you will see.

 A lot of the main houses are beautifully landscaped with flowers and palm trees. Running vines with bright orange flowers covered a fence running along the front of a farmhouse we drove past. We could not resist stopping for a pic!

The Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple of Homestead,  Florida was even more beautiful in person! It is open to the public most of the time. They even hold festivals and events and invite the public. I have heard that the monks are welcoming and will instruct you on meditation if you so wish. We walked around without ever see anyone. I would love to go back during one of the events!

We wanted to visit Biscayne National Park Institute, but ran out of time. Hopefully we can get there on our next trip through.

Homestead is also a good place to stay as a cheaper alternative to lodging in the upper Florida Keys. It is only 30 mile from Key Largo.

Happy Travels! 

Discovering the Wonders of the Coral Castle in Florida

Often compared with the construction of Stonehenge and the Great Pyramid, Coral Castle is the mysterious work of a Latvian emigrant named Edward Leedskalnin. Ed built his castle to impress the love of his life (Agnes Scuffs), a 16-year-old who had left him on the day before their wedding.

Originally started in Florida City and later moved to Homestead, the mystery of how he single-handedly moved, carved, and erected millions of pounds of coral rock to build this place remains today.

To add to the mystery, Ed was only five feet tall and barely weighed a 100 pounds. He would only say that he knew "the secret of the pyramids.

Ed was a very secretive man. During the 28 years it took him to build the castle, no one ever observed him working on it. There is a book, "Mr. Can't is Dead by Orval M. Irwin", written by a friend that supposedly tells some of his secrets. It is sold in the castle gift shop.

Know Before You Go:

A full narrated tour is included in the price. The guided made it very interesting with his sense of humor.

The last stop of the tour is located outside of the wall. This is the perfect time to slip inside and grab some photos without a ton of people in them.

 You will be in full sun the entire time, but they do provide umbrellas.

Photography is allowed. No videos.

Interesting Fact:

I'm not sure why, but Billy Idol wrote and recorded the song “Sweet Sixteen” as a tribute to Ed and the Coral Castle. The song video was shot on location at the Castle.

The Coral Castle is located:

30 miles (30 minute drive) from the Miami International Airport
36 miles (45 minute drive) from Key Largo
172 miles (156 miles) from Fort Myers/Sanibel Island area

Address:

28655 S Dixie Hwy, Homestead, FL 33033

Happy Travels! 

Parrot Key Resort: A Tranquil Oasis in the Heart of Key West, Florida

Nestled in the heart of Key West, Florida, Parrot Key Resort offers a unique tropical getaway that will transport you to a world of relaxation and tranquility. This stunning resort is surrounded by lush, vibrant gardens that feature over 400 palm trees and a variety of exotic plants, making it the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

At Parrot Key Resort, you can experience the best of both worlds - the beauty and serenity of a tropical paradise, combined with the convenience of being just minutes away from all the action and excitement that Key West has to offer. With easy access to the island's top attractions, you'll never be far from the fun.

One of the standout features of Parrot Key Resort is its Balinese-inspired architecture and decor. From the moment you step inside, you'll feel like you've been transported to the lush jungles of Southeast Asia. The resort's beautiful guest rooms and suites are decorated with rich, warm tones and feature luxurious amenities.

When it comes to dining, Parrot Key Resort has you covered. The resort's award-winning restaurant, Cafe Blue, serves up delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a romantic dinner for two, Cafe Blue has something for everyone.

Of course, no tropical vacation would be complete without a day spent lounging by the pool. Parrot Key Resort features four sparkling swimming pools, each with its own unique atmosphere. Whether you prefer to relax in the shade or soak up the sun, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind and recharge.

If you're looking for a truly memorable vacation experience, then look no further than Parrot Key Resort in Key West, Florida. From its beautiful gardens and Balinese-inspired decor, to its luxurious amenities and convenient location, this resort truly has it all. 

Address:

Parrot Key Hotel and Resort

 2801 N Roosevelt Blvd

 Key West, FL 33040

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri