Help us narrow it down pls!!

Question

First timers to NOLA- girls trip in late march. Want to walk to places as much as possible and safely. Hotel choices are Hotel Monteleone, Hotel Provincial, Hotel Mazarin and the Omni Royal .

Trying to narrow it down by pros and cons of each. Thanks for your help !!

Answer

It sounds like you’re in for a fun girls’ trip to New Orleans! Since you're planning to walk as much as possible and want to stay in a safe, convenient area, I’ll break down the pros and cons of each of these hotels based on location, amenities, and overall vibe. This should help you narrow it down to the one that suits your group best.

1. Hotel Monteleone

Pros:

Prime Location: Hotel Monteleone is located in the heart of the French Quarter, making it incredibly convenient for walking to famous spots like Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the Riverfront. You’ll be in the middle of the action, perfect for first-time visitors.
Iconic & Historic: This hotel is a New Orleans landmark, known for its beautiful old-world charm and historic significance. The Carousel Bar is a must-visit—it’s the only revolving bar in the city!
Great Amenities: The hotel offers a rooftop pool with great views, a spa, and a well-regarded restaurant. It's a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing.

Cons:

Price: Hotel Monteleone is on the pricier side, especially for a girls' trip, though it may be worth the splurge for the location and luxury.
Busy Area: The location can also mean it’s a bit noisy, particularly on weekends or during busy events, as it's close to Bourbon Street. If you prefer a quieter experience, this might be something to consider.

2. Hotel Provincial

Pros:

Location: Hotel Provincial is a little quieter than some of the other hotels but still within walking distance of key French Quarter attractions, including Bourbon Street and the St. Louis Cathedral. It's a good mix of being close to the action without being right in the heart of it.
Historic Charm: The hotel has a beautiful historic feel, with a charming courtyard and period-style decor. It's a bit more relaxed than some of the larger hotels.
Affordable: It's generally more affordable compared to the Hotel Monteleone, so it might be a better option if you're trying to keep your budget in check.

Cons:

Smaller Rooms: Some guests have mentioned that the rooms can feel a bit small compared to other hotels in the area, though they're still comfortable.
Limited Amenities: While the hotel has a great atmosphere, it doesn't have the same level of amenities as the more high-end options (e.g., no rooftop pool or spa). If you're looking for extra luxury, this might be something to consider.

3. Hotel Mazarin

Pros:

Excellent Location: Hotel Mazarin is just a block off of Bourbon Street, putting you right in the center of the French Quarter. You’re close to all the action, but the hotel is set on a quieter street, so you’ll still have some peace and quiet.
Great Amenities: It offers modern amenities like a nice courtyard, complimentary breakfast, and a lovely wine bar. It’s a nice balance of contemporary comfort with historic charm.
Small and Boutique Feel: The hotel is smaller and more intimate, which can be perfect for a group looking for a more personalized experience. The staff is often praised for being friendly and helpful.

Cons:

Higher Price: Similar to Hotel Monteleone, Hotel Mazarin can be on the expensive side, especially during peak seasons like Mardi Gras or spring break.
Fewer Dining Options: While the hotel has a wine bar, there aren't as many on-site dining options compared to other hotels in the area. However, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance.

4. Omni Royal Orleans

Pros:

Great Location: Like the others, Omni Royal Orleans is very centrally located. It’s a quick walk to both Bourbon Street and Jackson Square, making it ideal for sightseeing and dining.
Nice Amenities: The Omni has a rooftop pool with fantastic views, a fitness center, and an upscale restaurant, which can be great for a relaxing evening after a busy day.
Reputation: The Omni chain is known for providing solid, reliable service and modern amenities, so it’s a safe bet if you're looking for comfort and convenience.

Cons:

Can Be Expensive: Similar to Hotel Monteleone, the Omni can be on the higher end price-wise, but it does offer luxury and convenience.
More Corporate Feel: Some people feel that Omni hotels can be more corporate and less "New Orleans" in their vibe compared to more boutique hotels, so if you're looking for that unique local charm, this may feel less personal.

Summary: Based on your preferences for walking and safety, all of these hotels are in fantastic locations for first-time visitors to the French Quarter. Here’s a quick summary:

If you want to be right in the action and enjoy a luxurious, historic experience, go with Hotel Monteleone.
If you want a quieter, charming place with a slightly more affordable price, Hotel Provincial could be a good choice.
If you want a boutique experience with modern amenities and a central location, Hotel Mazarin is a solid option.
If you're looking for luxury with great amenities and a reliable chain, Omni Royal Orleans is a good bet.

Ultimately, it comes down to the atmosphere you're looking for and your budget. All of these hotels are well-located and safe, so you really can’t go wrong!

Help us narrow it down pls!!

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