If your idea of service in a hotel requires chrome, a view from the 15th floor, starched uniforms and a dry sense of humor, then do not stay at the Olde Town Inn.
However, if you prefer charm and kitsch, fresh coffee and pastries in the morning, and a peaceful atmosphere for "down time" (all at an incredible rate), then I strongly recommend Olde Town Inn, 1001 Marigny, New Orleans.
Just 6 blocks outside the French Quarter, the Olde Town Inn was an oasis in the midst of the chaos during the BCSNCG. Until we overwalked on the day of the game, we walked back and forth to the action in the Quarter within 15 minutes. Marigny is a very old, charming, safe neighborhood - very peaceful.
Our room was absolutely charming, comfortable and clean. We were able to spend downtime in the comfort of the covered patio where breakfast is served, or on the gallery running along the second floor.
The staff is second to none. They cheerfully answered any questions I had, provided reviews and recommendations for restaurants or delivery services, and all with a sense of humor! One gets a feel from the staff that they truly enjoy where they work - there was never a feel of "another day, another dollar".
One strong hint: New Orleans is classified as one of the most "walkable" cities. If you drive in, ask to park in the locked lot. Trust me - the time you will sit in traffic and gas money more than justify walking or taking cabs. Oh, and the staff will quickly call a cab for you that remarkably appears within minutes!
Saturday, January 12, 2008
French Quarter, New Orleans, LA
We just spent 4 wonderful days in New Orleans. While I plan to give special attention to certain establishments, the citizens of New Orleans, and specifically the French Quarter, deserve special mention.
We were in town for the BCS National Championship Game, held January 7, 2008. Combine the incredible following the Ohio State Buckeyes have with the "backyard" venue for the LSU Tigers and you have the makings of one hell of a party. As far as the opposing fans, we had an incredible time. LSU fans were amazing to us (OSU fans) - good natured ribbing, even an invite to a tailgate. We passed on the tailgate due to the restrictions - we would have to change out of our OSU shirts and wear LSU purple - just couldn't do it!
I was overwhelmed at the number of people who took the time to stop us on the street to say "Thank you for coming down for the game." "Thank you for coming to our city". For years, New Orleans economy has been driven by the tourist trade. Nothing has changed post-Katrina. The primary tourist destinations are intact - and the city needs YOU to visit. Tourism is what will save the Crescent City.
If you are a myspace member, visit "do orleans". A grass-roots effort by a wonderfully sweet young man who loves his city, he implores the citizens of the Big Easy to "do something".
If and when you decide to return to New Orleans, be sure to follow the link nola.com. A community message board sponsored by the Times-Picayune, I found it to be an invaluable resource for restaurant suggestions.
I'll be honest - we didn't venture far out of the French Quarter. While four nights may seem sufficient, we spent two whole days on NCAA football. We had many plans that didn't come to fruition. So, we will travel again by year's end for a week -preferably when no major events are happening.
New Orleans showed the world over a one-week period (Sugar Bowl and BCSNCG) that are ready and willing to take on all visitors. Mardi Gras is just a few short weeks away, followed almost immediately by the NBA All-Star Game. And, in just a few months, it will be time for the Jazz & Heritage Fest.
If you are looking for an event - there are plenty to choose from. But, know this - the City of New Orleans WILL entertain you, and treat you well in the process.
We were in town for the BCS National Championship Game, held January 7, 2008. Combine the incredible following the Ohio State Buckeyes have with the "backyard" venue for the LSU Tigers and you have the makings of one hell of a party. As far as the opposing fans, we had an incredible time. LSU fans were amazing to us (OSU fans) - good natured ribbing, even an invite to a tailgate. We passed on the tailgate due to the restrictions - we would have to change out of our OSU shirts and wear LSU purple - just couldn't do it!
I was overwhelmed at the number of people who took the time to stop us on the street to say "Thank you for coming down for the game." "Thank you for coming to our city". For years, New Orleans economy has been driven by the tourist trade. Nothing has changed post-Katrina. The primary tourist destinations are intact - and the city needs YOU to visit. Tourism is what will save the Crescent City.
If you are a myspace member, visit "do orleans". A grass-roots effort by a wonderfully sweet young man who loves his city, he implores the citizens of the Big Easy to "do something".
If and when you decide to return to New Orleans, be sure to follow the link nola.com. A community message board sponsored by the Times-Picayune, I found it to be an invaluable resource for restaurant suggestions.
I'll be honest - we didn't venture far out of the French Quarter. While four nights may seem sufficient, we spent two whole days on NCAA football. We had many plans that didn't come to fruition. So, we will travel again by year's end for a week -preferably when no major events are happening.
New Orleans showed the world over a one-week period (Sugar Bowl and BCSNCG) that are ready and willing to take on all visitors. Mardi Gras is just a few short weeks away, followed almost immediately by the NBA All-Star Game. And, in just a few months, it will be time for the Jazz & Heritage Fest.
If you are looking for an event - there are plenty to choose from. But, know this - the City of New Orleans WILL entertain you, and treat you well in the process.
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