International House Hotel

"How did it strike you on arrival?As with many buildings in the Central Business District, exteriors and interiors tell very different stories. In this case, both are intriguing: The facade is an ornate 12 floors of early 20th-century Beaux Arts finesse, while the lobby is a dark and sleek affair, all high ceilings, huge portraits, and oversized ottomans. Nice. What’s the crowd like?The tasteful one-block distance from the French Quarter means a slightly more mature cross section of hedonists, more likely to be testing the bartender’s cocktail knowledge than downing Jager shots. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The rooms are a symphony of creams and whites, which together with the pearl headboards reflect the natural light and make for a lovely bright sleeping space. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?I slept the sleep of ages thanks to the Simmons Beauty Rest Plush mattresses and high quality linens. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Tech-obsessed guests will appreciate the iHome stereo dock and Apple TV connector. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.The spacious bathroom had a large, walk-in glass shower stocked with Aveda products. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is free and as fast as any in the city. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.The hotel’s bar, Loa, is one of my favourite spots. Although locals in the know swing by, it’s predominantly just hotel guests, meaning that you can luxuriate in the candlelit, shadowy ambience and meander through the drinks list. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?The friendliness of the guests around the bar is on a par with the friendliness of the staff. Bottom line: worth it, and why?It consistently has some of the best value room prices in town, and its location—close to the action but far enough away to retreat and rest up—is hard to beat." - Paul Oswell