PRICE:
Frommer's Highly Recommended

The red-granite Hotel InterContinental rises from the heart of the Central Business District within walking distance of the French Quarter and the Mississippi River attractions. It's a favorite of groups (including rock groups; the Rolling Stones have stayed here) and conventions. It's an old-fashioned -- or what passes for that in this brave new Ian Schrager-ized world -- business hotel, clearly targeting a certain kind of traveler who isn't impressed by the hip minimalists springing up everywhere. This is not a bad thing, per se, but as long as the prices remain in the $200 plus range, you'll find better ways to spend your accommodations budget (though good online deals can be had). Still, there is no better place to camp out for Mardi Gras, particularly since the Rex parade stops right in front and the front desk is one of the speediest in town. Rooms are done in dark wood furniture (mattresses are nothing special) with similarly woodsy strong golds and reds; bathrooms can be small but dignified. It's the sort of room for which the adjective "handsome" was coined, which is very different from "pretty" or "charming." Call it masculine in a slightly frilly way. All the rooms are decently sized, but the doubles (especially corner doubles) are somewhat larger, and "deluxe kings" are larger still, with patio balconies (overlooking office buildings, alas). Some rooms have balconies that overlook the courtyard, although said courtyard is modern and industrial in appearance.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's New Orleans 2009, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

Find Hotel Deals on Yahoo Travel»