New lodging in the Big Easy features large rooms, a terrific restaurant, and sweeping views of the Mississippi River.
While on a recent trip to New Orleans, I never wanted to leave my room. No, I wasn't having a case of the vapors or suffering from acute agoraphobia. My room was just that wonderful.
Loews Knows Luxury
The new Loews New Orleans hotel, located on Poydras Street in the Central Business District, earns high praise for everything from its lobby to its large guest rooms and spa.
I knew I was in serious trouble when I first entered my room. Spotless white comforters covered the beds, and I discovered I even had a wide choice of pillows. As I tried out the ergonomie chair at the desk, I glanced out the window, and that's when I was hooked.
I've never had a better panoramic view of the Mississippi River. I sat and watched the sunset and the lights wink on while listening to the New Orleans music playing on the CD player. (The CD is free for guests to take home.) I pulled myself away only long enough to check out the eighth floor spa, lap pool, and fitness center.
Then I was ready for dinner.
Delightful Dining
Café Adelaide offers up a dose of light-hearted fun with its fine Creole cuisine. The night I was there, chef Kevin Vizard's deceptively simple Green Goddess salad ($6) made a delicious starter, while the entrée of pepper-crusted tuna, tomato, and kalamata olives ($16) was perfectly cooked.
But all I could think about was that view from my room window. Next visit, I'm saving up for one of the corner king suites ($395). It boasts a whirlpool tub with a window overlooking the city. I predict I'll never leave the tub. WANDA MCKINNEY
Loews New Orleans hotel: 300 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70130; (504) 595-3300 orwww.loewshotels.com. Rates: begin at $209.
SORTING OUT THE HOTEL SCENE
Rates have a wide range in New Orleans, but you can find good deals. Here are some of our other favorite places to stay.
* Fairmont hotel: 123 Baronne Street; (504) 529-7111. Rates: available from $99. Adjacent to the French Quarter.
* Hotel Monteleone: 214 Royal Street; (504) 523-3341. Rates: start as low as $99. Right in the heart of the French Quarter.
* Renaissance Arts hotel: 700 Tchoupitoulas Street; (504) 613-2330. Call for rates. Just a few blocks from the French Quarter and near Harrah's and art galleries.
* The Windsor Court hotel: 300 Gravier Street; (504) 523-6000. Rates: start at $235. Perfect for a romantic getaway splurge; superb suites, dining, and service.
Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Mar 2005
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