Now the history of the domes is very unique. They were a DIY project by oil producer, Bob Lee, in the 80’s and were ahead of its time. The domes were actually one house (3 bedrooms, three bathrooms) made of interconnected dome structures, the living room with two levels. All self-sustainable, designed to run on solar power and recycled rain water. They happily lived there until 1992, when Hurricane Andrew arrived. The hurricane could not really damage the structure, but it trashed the interior. Now, because of rising waters, it actually looks like the domes walked into the ocean. I thought I would be sad when I finally got up close and personal with the beautiful domes, as a witness to their memory threatened to being swallowed by the ocean. But the opposite is what happened. The domes have such positive energy and are happy to be appreciated. It’s almost like they were smiling at me, and happy to be visited by all who appreciate. Currently, the pillars serve as a synthetic reef for diverse marine life. The domes protect marine life and the marine life protects the domes, or the governments would have liked them demolished. Thankfully, the domes still stand, have become one with their surroundings, offer shelter to life, and are appreciated by visitors. Check out the slide show with history! See below for additional tips for food and hotel.
After I got off the boat, I asked some lifeguards where to eat. They recommended Sand Bar, which is a short ways away from the snooty Marco Island trap. I was most pleasantly surprised with the good food! As soon as I sat down, the waiter brought a cold mug full of fresh sliced pickles. This is what the doctor ordered after a hot day on the beach. The slice of Key Lime Pie was so good, I almost ordered another for the road but really need to watch the diet. 🙂
As far as accommodations, I’m always looking for a good deal and a nice place to stay when embarking on excursions. La Quinta has recommended to me in the past, and after a less than ideal experience at another hotel, I wish I would have listened sooner! We headed out the night before and stayed at La Quinta because the price was right and the location was convenient. The room was even better. I loved the comfortable king size bed, and wish I had one like it in my own home. The room was immaculate with crisp sheets, a pristine bathroom, and completely fresh. Their cleaning staff really deserves an award in hospitality; I appreciated the fresh details. The framed photography art gallery on the wall was a nice touch that made me feel serene. The photos were black and whites of beachy scenes, a friendly seagull, boardwalk with linear perspective, and nature. I also liked the desk, comfy arm chair, huge TV, mini fridge, cafe maker, lovely wardrobe, and ironing center. Even the shower curtain was bright and sunny with friendly words written in yellow. The customer service girls were smart, nice, and capable. The breakfast was pretty good, too! I had a banana, yogurt, oatmeal, coffee and OJ. La Quinta has surely earned my trust.
If you want to learn about more places, check out The Five Treasures of Florida, Volume I, on the iTunes Store.
