Prince Conti vs. Hotel St. Marie

Question

We're visiting again in a few weeks and debating between these two hotels. We've stayed at Prince Conti before but have never stayed at Hotel St. Marie. We would be staying in the base level 2 queen rooms in either hotel and the main differences look like St. Marie rooms are maybe a little larger, have a fridge, and have a Keurig. Proximity is similar and price is similar enough to be irrelevant. Anything else we should consider? Noise level similar between the two? Thanks.

Note: I'd prefer Place d'Armes but don't want to pay up for it this trip.

Answer

Both the Prince Conti and Hotel St. Marie are great options in New Orleans, and the decision mainly comes down to the specific amenities and the atmosphere you're looking for. Here's a comparison to help you choose between them:

1. Location:

Both hotels are in the French Quarter, so you're in close proximity to popular attractions like Bourbon Street, the French Market, Jackson Square, and many restaurants. However, the Prince Conti is a little more on the edge of the Quarter, whereas Hotel St. Marie is tucked slightly deeper into the French Quarter, which might give you a quieter experience if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, though both are within walking distance of key spots.

2. Room Size & Amenities:

Prince Conti: The rooms at Prince Conti are cozy and traditional in design. While they may not be as large as those at Hotel St. Marie, they are generally clean and well-kept. Prince Conti does not include a fridge in the base-level rooms, which might be a downside if you're looking to store food or drinks. It also lacks the Keurig coffee machine that St. Marie offers.
Hotel St. Marie: As you mentioned, the rooms here tend to be a bit larger than those at Prince Conti, which can make a difference if you're spending a few days in your room. The rooms also come with a fridge and a Keurig coffee machine, which are nice touches for added convenience. The larger space and amenities might make it feel a little more comfortable for a longer stay.

3. Noise Level:

Noise can be a concern in the French Quarter, particularly if you're staying close to Bourbon Street, which can be noisy late into the night. However, between the two hotels:

Prince Conti: This hotel tends to have a more lively, energetic atmosphere since it is closer to Bourbon Street. While it's not directly on Bourbon Street, there can still be noise from nearby bars, clubs, and crowds in the area.
Hotel St. Marie: This hotel is located slightly off Bourbon Street, which might give you a bit more of a peaceful stay. It’s a quieter spot but still within walking distance of the action. The noise level may still be noticeable depending on which side of the hotel your room faces, but generally, it's considered a bit more tranquil than the Prince Conti.

4. Overall Atmosphere:

Both hotels have a charming New Orleans feel, with classic architecture and Southern hospitality, but they do differ slightly in vibe.

Prince Conti: This hotel has a more traditional and historic feel, with a vintage French Quarter charm. It tends to attract tourists who want to be right in the heart of the action.
Hotel St. Marie: The atmosphere here is also classic, but with a slightly more upscale vibe. It has a nice courtyard with a pool, which can be a nice retreat if you want a break from the city heat.

5. Price:

Since you've mentioned that the price difference is negligible, it really comes down to what amenities and experience you're looking for. If a slightly larger room with more amenities is important to you, Hotel St. Marie might be the better choice. But if you're looking for a more traditional French Quarter experience with easy access to Bourbon Street, Prince Conti is a solid option.

6. Other Options: Place d’Armes

As you mentioned, you prefer Place d’Armes but are hesitant due to the price. If you like the vibe of the French Quarter and are willing to stretch your budget a little, Place d’Armes is a wonderful option, offering a beautiful courtyard and an inviting atmosphere. However, both the Prince Conti and Hotel St. Marie offer great value for the location, so you’re still in a great spot.

Conclusion:

If you're looking for a quieter and slightly more comfortable room with extra amenities like a fridge and Keurig, Hotel St. Marie is a solid choice. If you're more interested in being closer to Bourbon Street and don’t mind a more traditional French Quarter experience, Prince Conti is a great option. Both hotels are excellent, so either way, you’ll be in a fantastic location for your stay in New Orleans!

Prince Conti vs. Hotel St. Marie

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