Early in the afternoon of our arrival in the Big Easy, when most people were in front of their computer screens, we were faced with a choice of swimming pools. The two heated outdoor pools at the Marriott New Orleans form a little oasis high above Canal Street at the edge of the French Quarter. A sanctuary of relaxation in a hotel customarily bustling with energy and conviviality, the pools with a sizable deck provide a perfect refuge for sleeping off the parties.
As soon as you enter the New Orleans Marriott, you get the sense that the party is underway. Registration is a breeze and marked by that easy hospitality for which the city is known. The circular 55 Fahrenheit lobby bar is similar to a theatre-in-the-round, with an ever-changing cast of characters, some of whom actually appear to be working on computers, albeit with a cocktail near at hand.
With more than 1,300 hotel rooms and suites, the New Orleans Marriott’s towers are a recognizable beacon from various points in the American and French Quarter. Rooms are well proportioned – and those with river views feature an expansive wall-sized window onto the Mississippi with its ongoing parade of barges, riverboats, and ships. At night, the skyline glitters with the signage of the city’s casinos and bars, reminders that the party goes all night long.
(Source: Marriott)
Minibars, fortunately, are nowhere to be found, meaning no unforeseen charges on your bill. Alas, there is “The Book of Mormon” in a nightstand. Our suggestion? Take the offending book to the nearest recycle container, which is a trick we learned from Sir Ian McKellan who, upon entering a hotel room, removes the Bible from the nightstand and promptly rips out the entire book of Leviticus. Bravo, we say, for why should we allow hate in the rooms where we find peace in sleep?
Bathrooms can be small – but you’re not in New Orleans for lingering in front of the vanity. Head down to breakfast at 5 Fifty 5 – and fill up a plate from the bountiful breakfast buffet. The pecan sticky buns with caramel sauce will have you thinking about sneaking a few into your man bag – and even when you’re back home, you’ll still be tasting that flaky pastry with the caramel and nuts.
Perfectly located for a weekend of meandering, with generous amounts of hospitality, the New Orleans Marriott makes a lovely home away from home in the heart of the Crescent City.
LINK: New Orleans Marriott
