The Saint Philip Hotel

The St. Philip is a whimsical establishment. The main common area is the comical-looking courtyard, where, along with lush plants and flowers amid outdoor seating, there are vintage signs, pink flamingos, a one-of a-kind copper crawfish fountain, and various decorations depending on the season, like candy cane garden ornaments for Christmas. The courtyard sends the message of casual fun and celebration, but the St. Philips is by no means a party hotel, despite it's location in the heart of the French Quarter. St. Philip is one of the quieter streets, and the hotel has quiet hours between 11 p.m. and 10 a.m. and emphasizes in its guest policies that it should not be used as a gathering spot for outside visitors. Guests must be at least 25 years old to rent a unit.

Like many hotels and guest houses in the French Quarter, the St. Philip comes with a history. Built in 1839, it was originally two separate residences for a wealthy Sicilian immigrant, and in the 1940s, it operated as a "gentleman's hotel." This part of the French Quarter was called the Sicilian Quarter in the mid-19th century, and much of the architecture in the area (including St. Philip's) is Mediterranean-influenced. 

The St. Philip is conveniently located in the French Quarter, a five-minute walk to Jackson Square and the quieter end of Bourbon Street. The hotel is near plenty of shops, restaurants, bars, cafes (including the famous Cafe du Monde), and nightlife. The hotel is on one of the quieter side streets of the French Quarter, and thus noise is not too much of a problem, although be prepared for some (it is New Orleans, after all).  The hotel has no parking, and street parking can be difficult.

The apartments at the St. Philip are large and funky. While each of the 16 units has a distinct, unique layout, they all have full kitchens or kitchenettes, comfortable seating areas, and dining areas. Some units have balconies and up to two bedrooms -- bedrooms have more than one bed, making the St. Philips a good choice for groups. The decor and style of the units varies, but "bold and fun" would be the overall theme. Blankets are brightly colored, wallpaper is intricate, wall hangings look as if they're one of a kind, and every color of the rainbow seems to have been used in the decor. Some of the bathrooms can be a bit cramped, but they are clean and bright, and include toiletries and hairdryers. The kitchens, even in the smaller units, are well equipped with ovens, microwaves, full refrigerators, and dishwashers.

The St. Philip is a self-catering property, and, aside from the quirky courtyard and free Wi-Fi,  there is nothing in the way of extra features -- there's no fitness center, restaurant, or parking, and housekeeping costs extra. Despite the spirited decorations, this no-smoking property is not a party hotel, and it enforces quiet hours after 11 p.m.