Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans Convention Center

There is no doubt that this hotel means business ... meaning that travelers in town for work or conventions will have all they need at this property. While there may be a few tourists in the mix, the majority of guests can be seen running back and forth to the convention center across the street throughout the day. The hotel's very popular breakfast area feels like a loft-style apartment -- guests can hang out after buffet hours and grab free coffee. High warehouse ceilings make the breakfast area feel spacious and open; there are also couches around a large flat-screen TV, and tables and chairs in another area. Should the breakfast area be busy, the brightly painted lobby is also roomy with high ceilings, hardwood floors, and many seating options. The Warehouse Bar in the lobby has exposed brick and utilitarian light fixtures for a chic after-work drink.

The Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans – Convention Center is aptly named because it is the closest hotel to and literally across the street from the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Though the hotel says it's walkable to most area attractions, it's a long walk -- guests may want to get a cab to the French Quarter or other area attractions. However, it is the closest hotel to the cruise terminals, making it ideal pre/post cruise accommodations. Immediately surrounding the hotel is the convention center (across a four-lane divided road), other hotels and apartments, and a grassy park to the north.

These 288 rooms are sunshine -- literally, they are very brightly painted. Though dated and in need of an upgrade (which is apparently planned), rooms have a cheery vibe and all of the necessary comforts, including signature Hampton Beds, microwaves, coffeemakers, and mini-fridges (some suites have full refrigerators and dishwashers). The bathrooms have shower/tub combos and Neutrogena toiletries. There are two types of rooms -- those in the newer building and those in the restored warehouse -- and while all have similar amenities, warehouse rooms have more character: think wood beams, colorfully painted exposed brick, unusual configurations, and big windows. All rooms are clean, and have 42-inch flat-screen TVs and free high speed Wi-Fi.

After a long day of convention-going, this hotel offers a lovely swimming pool and surrounding courtyard with sun loungers and umbrellas -- though the sun disappears over this area fairly early. The fitness center looks a tad utilitarian, and is well-equipped with multiple cardio machines, free weights, pulley machines, medicine balls, tubing, and even biofoam rollers. The basic business center has computers, printers, and copiers, as well as meeting rooms. The free daily breakfast is kind of fabulous, and has a do-it-yourself waffle bar; guests rushing out for business can grab On the Run breakfast bags. Long-stay travelers will appreciate the coin-operated laundry room. As per usual in NOLA, valet parking is the only option and is pricey; however, there is parking available on streets adjacent to the hotel. The Warehouse lobby bar is a nice spot for those wishing to grab a drink and mingle at day's end.