Sometimes you want the amenities of a big hotel, but in a somewhat smaller package. Perhaps you want something a little different, a step beyond the corporate norms. Boutique hotels offer comfort, convenience, luxury, and location, but with more local color, and more personal attention. We present a few choices below, in no particular order.
1. Hotel Le Marais
Located at 717 Conti Street in the French Quarter, this hotel was completely renovated to its present state of "trendy sophistication." Le Marais has 66 rooms that feature pillow top beds, flat panel televisions, ergonomic desk chairs, and a continental breakfast, among many other luxuries. You will be greeted with cocktails, and later, you can swim in the heated saltwater pool, work out in the fitness center (coming soon), or just enjoy the French Quarter Courtyard. The wine and tequila bar, a recent Quarter favorite, serves speciality cocktails and small light plates.
2. The International House
The International House is hip yet elegant, with 117 deluxe rooms, 15 superior rooms, and 2 suites. Recently renovated by a Los Angeles-based designer to the stars, the mood is gracefully stylish, contemporary with lush appointments of crystal, marble, imbued with a touch of the "ecclesiastical" in keeping with its New Orleans setting. A great bar, the "Loa", adds to the mystique. 221 Camp Street. (504)553-9520.
3. 523 Loft
523 Loft, 2 blocks from the French Quarter, has 16 "Soho style" lofts,each averaging about 600 square feet. There are also two penthouses with garden terraces. The baths feature Italian "Spoon" tubs and glass and limestone showers with dual showerheads. The Loft 523 Bar & Grotto is one of the hottest nighttime venues in town. Try the special milk bath accompanied by beignets. 523 Gravier St. (there are no outside signs.) Phone(504)200-6523.
4. The Ambassador Hotel
The Ambassador is located four blocks from the Quarter and three blocks from Harrah's. It is comprised of three 19th century warehouses renovated to blend the best of old and new. Hardwood floors and exposed brick and beam are at home with wi-fi and data-compatible phones. Free continental breakfast is included. Visit the Extreme Sports Bar & Grill. 535 Tchoupitoulas St. (800)455-3417.
5. Windsor Court Hotel
The Windsor Court Hotel at 300 Gravier Street is one of the exceptions to the "local color" rule of thumb for boutique hotels. Its decor is decidedly British. The 56 guest rooms are expansive,and the remaning accomodations are suites, including a 2000 square foot penthouse. Drink at the Polo Lounge, eat at the noted Grill room, or relax in Le Salon for possibly the best afternoon tea in town. The hotel is in the heart of the CBD, a few blocks from the Quarter and a stone's throw from Harrahs.
6. The Columns Hotel
Listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, The Columns at 3811 St. Charles Avenue is located away from the fray, unless, of course, it's Mardi Gras. In that case, you'll be in the heart of the action. Nineteen rooms are furnished with Victorian splendor, and a full southern breakfast is complimentary. The Victorian Lounge is a favorite hangout for locals, and the Sunday Jazz Brunch is also very popular. Hang out on the front porch with a drink, or take the streetcar downtown.
7. Bienville House
Bienville House is located in the heart of the French Quarter at 320 Decatur Street. Its 83 rooms are complemented by a free continental breakfast, a heated outdoor saltwater pool in a private courtyard, and the wonderful restaurant Iris. All rooms have rice-carved four poster beds, luxurious bathrobes and linens, and designer toiletries. Its location is perfect for a French Quarter getaway. You can go shopping or to a movie in nearby Canal Place, perhaps visit the Aquarium and Insectarium, or go rock out at the House of Blues. Bienville House is also a pet-friendly hotel.
8. Soniat House
Soniat house is located at 1133 Chartres Street in the quiet residential section of the French Quarter. Comprised of three Creole-style townhouses, its eighteen rooms and twelve suites are furnished with antiques, Egyptian cotton linens, and all modern amenities. Have a relaxing continental breakfast in the beautiful courtyard. The Romance Package features three nights in a Junior Suite, champagne on arrival after being met by private car, a complimentary breakfast each day and dinner one night at Gautreau's Restaruant, a local gem.
9. St. James Hotel
The St. James has 86 loveley guest rooms and 6 suites that display the Creole-Carribean connections of New Orleans. The West Indies decor includes touches such as goose down featherbeds and marble baths. You can enjoy the lounging pool surrounded by the rooftop terraces and eat at Cuvee, an award winning restaurant with a great wine selection. At 330 Magazine Street in the CBD, you are within walking distance of the French Quarter, the Superdome, and the Arts District. A Pet Program is available for your best friends.
10. The Cornstalk Fence Hotel
The Cornstalk Fence Hotel is a mansion in the French Quarter with 14 guest rooms furnished with beautiful antiques, and private baths. Most rooms have crystal chandeliers, fireplaces, oriental rugs, and canopy beds. The absoultely beautiful lobby warms you with more bright crystal chandeliers and antique mirrors. The balcony overlooks Royal Street, and a tropical garden patio in the rear makes a quiet oasis in the midst of the most famous part of the city. Of course you'll want to examine and learn the story of the famous fence, built in 1856, for which the hotel is named. 915 Royal St.
