OCEAN REEF CLUB in Key Largo

With its dazzling setting and balmy weather, it promised terrific fishing and tropical relaxation for vacationers.

In 1945, a developer from Minnesota bought the 40 acres land and a couple of shacks, cistern, and no amenities. He built a 26-room inn, dining room, and lounge, a few cottages and a spacious residence for his family. In 1970, a golf course was added, along with tennis courts, a medical office, and many residential units.

After hurricane Andrew the residents bought the assets of their community and secured the right of self-governance.

Ray and Cheryl Parker hosted the 2012 Tennis Tournament and invited my husband, Sam, to participate as a partner to Cheryl. I tagged along, and for three days I had the privilege of discovering the sophisticated village, called Ocean Reef Club, and admiring its quaint and relaxed mode of living.

On Thursday night we were invited to a cocktail for the inauguration of the Tennis Tournament, and later to dinner by Cheryl and Ray in one of the many restaurants of the Reef that promote healthy food with an elegant presentation.

On Friday morning I watched Sam and Cheryl play their games and win the match.




After lunch, Cheryl lent us her golf cart. Sam gave me a tour of the Reef.

The next day, we visited the marina and I took pictures of the superb yachts to help in my research for my novel, GREEK ENCOUNTER.

During the day we attended more tennis competitions for Cheryl and Sam who well deserved championship trophies.

In the evening Ray and Cheryl hosted a lovely party for the guests of the Tennis Tournament. The theme was the Roaring Twenties. The tables were decorated with rows of beads dangling from a wide cup.



A band played Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and many oldies, while mute movies of Charlie Chaplin scrolled on a TV screen. We toasted and danced.

Thank you, Cheryl and Ray, for your invitation and lovely hospitality.

Mona’s Books and buying links:

NO MORE LIES     http://tinyurl.com/79r88wp

RIGHT NAME, WRONG MAN, http://tinyurl.com/85o4wg7

BABIES IN THE BARGAIN   http://tinyurl.com/6mcd6e3

Osiris’ Missing Part  http://tinyurl.com/6t3aa7b

 

Rx in RUSSIAN, http://tinyurl.com/6boox95

FRENCH PERIL http://tinyurl.com/7fve78a

TO LOVE A HERO http://tinyurl.com/74hlm4h