Contempra Inn

For me, the Contempra Inn is exactly what it says it is, and I highly recommend it. It's a budget hotel without a pool, restaurant, or gym, so look elsewhere if you want those. But in my 15 years of staying here, I've always felt safe and comfortable, and the place is quiet and monitored. They gather information about guests on the property, so you don't check in only to discover a party next door. They won't tolerate noise or smoking by guest rooms, and they respect the guests. The staff are welcoming and helpful, the housekeepers do a great job, and the rooms are clean, sometimes cleaner than high-end hotels I've tried. Beds are wonderful, and I've always slept well. There are little gift surprises, over 300 TV channels, maybe more, and a full refrigerator with a separate freezer plus a microwave, things you'd pay extra for elsewhere, like a studio or extended-stay place, but not as nice as Contempra. I also love the adjustable personal fan by the bed and that lavender smell. I travel for business all over the US and have stayed in high-, mid-, and budget hotels, yet no other place is a better value for me in the New Orleans area. It's been my go-to for 15 years. Just stayed for Mardi Gras, and these guys are awesome. Thank you!

I wish I'd checked the recent reviews before I booked. The stay was a disaster from beginning to end. At check-in I was charged twice, with no clear explanation. Staff said one charge was a deposit and promised to refund it, but the money never came back. My bank is investigating it as a fraudulent charge. The room was dirty and had roaches, and the place felt unsafe. People kept banging on the walls. Then, an hour before checkout, staff knocked and rudely told me to "pack up and get out" for no reason. Their replies to bad reviews seem full of excuses instead of the truth. I'd strongly recommend staying elsewhere.

The room was nice, but the service at check-in on February 16 was unacceptable, and I won't return or recommend the hotel. The front desk associate was polite, but the employee supervising her, Steven Phillips, who seemed to be a manager, was rude and unprofessional. He asked for the second guest's ID. I asked why, since I travel often and hadn't been asked for one before. Rather than explain the policy, he got defensive and muttered sarcastic remarks. When I brought it up, he said, “I’m just giving you the same energy back.” He kept making negative comments and was confrontational and dismissive. I was asking a reasonable question, and customers shouldn't be treated that way. A manager should communicate clearly and respectfully. I hope management takes this seriously and provides customer service training so others don't have the same experience.

For a quick stay on a budget, this place does the job. It's near Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, restaurants, and I-10, though you should expect some aircraft noise. The property has visible wear and could use better upkeep, and parking is very tight, which makes getting into and out of spaces difficult. If you're after more comfort or better maintained facilities, nearby motels may suit you better.