Hotel Royal

On the outside, the Hotel Royal maintains the classic New Orleans look, with wrought-iron balconies, painted wood shutters, and an entrance that leads to an internal courtyard draped in vines. The interiors are sleek and minimalist, and much more modern than might be expected. The lobby is not large, but has a black-tile reception desk and a small seating area with a large, L-shaped leather couch (showing it's age), and two carved wooden chairs. The black and gray tones make the space feel a little dark, but the gray-tone paintings of brass instruments that hang on the walls make the space more cheerful and celebrate the city's musical history. 

A simple stone courtyard offers a pleasant space to relax and enjoy the sunshine, with several metal tables and chairs. This courtyard can be a source of annoyance for guests at night, however, as several rooms face it and noise can drift up from guests hanging out late into the night.

The Hotel Royal is located on a picturesque street in the historic and extremely popular French Quarter. A block off lively Bourbon Street, it is still a few blocks from the center of the nightlife, which means the immediate surroundings are relatively calm in the evenings. The hotel is within walking distance of attractions like Jackson Square, Cafe du Monde, and the French Market. There is a limited amount of free parking in a lot down the block from the hotel (first come, first served), and several other paid parking lots and garages in the area. Typically, it's best to walk in the French Quarter, as parking can be an issue. 

The Hotel Royal's aesthetic is simple and sparse; in the rooms, the headboards and furniture are a mix of beige and dark wood, and plain white walls are left almost entirely undecorated. The 19th-century townhouse's original features have been restored and complemented with the modern furnishings, giving the rooms a homey vibe; architectural features include hardwood floors, louvered white window shutters, wrought-iron balconies, and, in top-floor rooms, slanted attic ceilings. Layouts and shapes also vary: Petite Rooms, and even Deluxe Rooms, may feel cramped, but Superior Rooms offer more breathing room. Many rooms have private balconies, but some rooms open onto the interior courtyard. Bathrooms also range in size, but all are modern and bright, with white marble tiles and glass showers; some suites have whirlpool tubs. All rooms have flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and free Wi-Fi.

Overall, the Hotel Royal offers little in the way of amenities. There is a less-than-impressive free continental breakfast served each morning, which includes fruit, yogurt, pastries, and coffee and tea. Coffee remains available throughout the day, as well. The hotel has free Wi-Fi and limited parking down the block. While the historic townhouse property can be a draw, it has its downsides — for instance, there is no elevator. Staff will help carry bags to upper floor rooms upon arrival, but some guests finds the several flights annoying to climb on a regular basis.