Down a rabbit hole with too many hotel options
I've ended up doing too much research and essentially talking myself out of every hotel!!! My preferred hotels are full and it's thrown me...
Can someone help me to rationalise our shortlist please to make a decision?
We are staying during the French Quarter Festival and are a couple in our 30s.
Eliza Jane - I love the hotel but concerned about location being safe at night
ONE11 - I have seen comments about train noise and this one is more expensive so needs to be worth it
JW Marriott - price on par with Eliza Jane, but some recent negative reviews
Thanks
It sounds like you're juggling a lot of considerations with your hotel choices, especially during the bustling French Quarter Festival! Let’s break down your options to help you rationalize and make a decision. Since you’re a couple in your 30s, it’s important to balance comfort, convenience, and the vibe of the area. Here's a closer look at each hotel on your shortlist:
- Eliza Jane:
This is a great boutique hotel with a lot of charm and style. The location in the Warehouse District is appealing because it's close to the French Quarter but not directly in the heart of the tourist-heavy areas, which can provide a little more peace and quiet. However, as you've mentioned, there may be some concerns about the safety of the neighborhood at night. While the Warehouse District is generally safe, it can feel quieter and more industrial after hours, especially with fewer people around. If you’re not comfortable with potentially walking through quieter areas at night, you may want to weigh this against the benefits of the hotel’s aesthetic and proximity to the French Quarter (it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Quarter).
- ONE11:
ONE11 is a stylish, modern option, but the train noise can be an issue, particularly if you're a light sleeper. Since it's more expensive than Eliza Jane, this is definitely something to consider — especially if you don’t mind paying extra for a more “luxurious” feel, but the train sounds could be a dealbreaker. The location is decent in terms of access to the French Quarter and Bourbon Street, but it may not be as central as you’d like. You’re close to the riverfront, but train noise could impact your overall comfort, especially during the night. If you’re okay with some noise for a more “upscale” experience, it could still be worth it, but if sleep quality is a priority, it may be a factor to reconsider.
- JW Marriott:
The JW Marriott is a classic and solid option. It’s centrally located, which gives you easy access to both the French Quarter and the surrounding areas. You’ll be very close to popular spots like Canal Street and Bourbon Street. However, recent negative reviews seem to highlight issues with service or maintenance that could detract from your experience. Given that its price is on par with Eliza Jane, but with the mixed reviews, you may want to consider if you feel comfortable taking the risk with the service level or if you’d prefer a more consistent experience. The JW Marriott does have a great reputation for amenities and comfort, so if you prioritize convenience and service consistency, this could still be a solid option.
Here’s a quick way to weigh these options:
- If safety at night is a concern: Eliza Jane might not be the best option unless you’re okay with the short walk through quieter areas of the Warehouse District. In this case, JW Marriott, being centrally located in a busier area, may be a safer bet at night.
- If you don’t mind a bit of noise: ONE11 could offer the most luxurious experience, but if you're a light sleeper, the train noise might disrupt your stay. Consider if the stylish, upscale atmosphere outweighs that inconvenience.
- If service and comfort matter more than style: The JW Marriott is a reliable chain with a central location and great amenities. If you’re concerned about the negative reviews, you could read more about those specifically to see if it’s a dealbreaker.
Final Decision: Given the time of year (French Quarter Festival), I would recommend prioritizing convenience, location, and safety over luxury, especially if you plan to be out and about at night. If noise isn’t an issue for you, ONE11 could offer a great experience with a higher-end feel. However, if you value safety and peace of mind at night, JW Marriott or even Eliza Jane (with a more cautious approach to the neighborhood) might be better options.
Take a deep breath, and you’re sure to enjoy your time in New Orleans no matter where you stay! Let me know if you need help with anything else!
