Shireen's Favorite Things

The Banyan Tree, 81197 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, Florida 33036

I love driving to The Keys with my windows rolled down and Tina Turner blaring on my iPod. It’s the most freeing feeling; leaving Miami in my rearview mirror and exploring a place I hope to call home one day. Each trip always brings the most unique discoveries and “Banyan Tree Boutique,” in Islamorada is one of them.

For years, on my way to Key West I would zoom by it (not even knowing it was a store.) Something about it, though, always caught my attention; beckoning me from the highway. It took awhile, but eventually, I’d slow down just before passing it. No matter how hard I’d crank my neck around to get a glimpse (which was all kinds of cra), it still didn’t allow me to see through the lush green canopy.

So, a few months ago, I FINALLY STOPPED and walked in.

Yeah, that’s right…I told my Type A (gotta get back to the big city) self to pipe down. What’s more, I talked myself into taking time to stop and smell the roses, so to speak and believe you me, I’m glad I did and for the record, when I was there, I smelled waaayy more than just roses. 🌿🌻🌳💐 I knew immediately that I had to go back and do a blog!

The “Banyan Tree Boutique” is snuggled into an expansive garden, filled with orchids, succulents and locally made pottery. Staying true to its namesake there’s a huge Banyan tree smack dab in the middle of it all. Every nook and cranny of the place holds a charming secret waiting to be discovered. With magical wind chimes, ceramic creatures and fabulous art, there’s something for everyone. Did I mention the retail therapy?

Inside, you’ll find beautiful clothing, gorgeous jewelry and gifts galore: candles, journals, purses and other unique trappings made by local artisans. Not only will you find the unusual, you’ll also find first class quality. Everything I’m wearing in the blog (even the accessories), are all from “Banyan Tree Boutique.”

The entire premise of the place is built around everything I adore. More specifically, my hobbies; including gardening, art and fashion. Adjacent to the boutique is a make-shift studio where you can take art classes (drawing or painting.)

If you’re looking for a little bohemian slice of heaven when you’re in The Keys or you just need to get away for the day, the “Banyan Tree Boutique” is my quintessential “Garden of Dreams” and that’s why it’s one of my favorite things. I think it’s the perfect place to see in 2016. Happy New Year!

Monday-Saturday 10-am-5pm (Closed on Sundays)

The “Banyan Tree Boutique” is located in Islamorada (which means “Island Home”) in the Florida keys. It’s also called the “Village of Islands” because it consists of five different keys. I love that it’s only an hour and a half from Miami; making for an easy get away. The boutique is right off the Overseas Highway on the east side of the road.

FB: @TheBanyanTree, IG: @BanyanTreeBoutique, Twitter: @BanyanTreeKeys
Shop the blog looks on-line: www.banyantreeboutique.com