New Orleans Marriott

Things are seemingly always on the go in this hotel and it is constantly bustling, with mostly business travelers but leisure travelers as well. Even the elevators move efficiently (which is a blessing since there are 41 floors to serve). Typical for such a large hotel, there is plenty of foot traffic in and out. A frequent site for conventions, the hotel is often packed with business travelers and tourists all congregating in the large lobby -- which looks a little like a casino with its red carpet, circular couches, flat-screen TVs, and a large bar at the center of the action. Luggage carts are constantly wheeling by and there is non-stop chatter which adds to the energy of the place.

Of all the French Quarter area hotels, this one may be the most ideally located. The French Quarter backs up to the hotel, Canal Street runs along the front, the Aquarium is a short walk away, riverboat cruises on the Mississippi are within blocks, and the Riverwalk Mall and Canal Street Shops are literally right around the corner. What this also means, however, is that the area immediately surrounding the hotel is a little nondescript and sometimes has homeless people hanging around (i.e. this is a typical downtown locale). Also, the streets around the hotel are busy so traffic noise can sometimes be heard within the property.

While this hotel's location is tops, its rooms are not (though renovations are apparently in the works). Disappointingly small, these very standard, hotel chain-type rooms are missing certain things most travelers have come to expect, such as in-room safes, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. The furnishings are adequate but nondescript; each room is outfitted with a tiny wooden desk, a bureau, and a chair to accompany the plush "Revive" bedding (the fluffy pillows are nice perks). All rooms also have flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers, and some have views of the city or the Mississippi River. The bathrooms are as cramped as the living quarters and offer only middle-of-the-line toiletries. Things are, however, kept clean, but unless you upgrade to a suite, it would be hard for a family to stay together in one of these rooms.

Boasting the largest ballroom space in Louisiana (it can accommodate up to 3600 people for receptions) and 49 other meeting rooms, this is obviously a popular place for conventions and events. There is also a large outdoor pool, and a breakfast buffet is available at the restaurant, which is open for lunch and dinner as well. However, many guests will probably just head straight to the on-site Starbucks for their morning fix. The adequate 24-hour fitness room features several pieces of cardio equipment and free weights, and the on-premises coin-operated laundry can come in handy. The hotel also has a Fed Ex and business center.