Residence Inn by Marriott New Orleans French Quarter Area/Central Business District

The staff weren't very welcoming, and I wouldn't recommend Residence Inn to anyone expecting hotel-level service. The app doesn't make it clear that Residence Inn isn't a hotel, and you have to request room service each day. We asked today, but when we came back ready to shower, the towels hadn't been replenished, the room hadn't been cleaned, and the bed was completely unmade. When we asked them to tidy up, they just brought us linens so we could make the bed ourselves. There wasn't a proper place for luggage either, so our bags sat in a hallway employees walked through. The room had no safe, and the coffee maker or its outlet didn't work. The cups were dirty and smelled like old cloth, and reception looked dated. They mention a $25 coupon for tours, but the tours are restricted and that wasn't explained at reception. I had to look into it myself. Overall, I was very disappointed with the lodging experience.

If I can't stay here, I won't come to NOLA. I was here for my birthday, 1-12 to 1-15, and Gray helped with my request for a higher floor. He was professional, and I wish I'd gotten to meet him during my stay, but I'll be back in a few weeks. I did meet Aaliyah, who was amazing, polite, and always smiling. Thanks to both of them for the great hospitality. Employees like these make a difference. This is the only hotel I'll stay in. Keep being great!

We stayed with a friend for a concert at the Smoothie King Center, which was an easy walk or a very short Uber ride away. The staff were wonderful from check-in to checkout, and valet was quick and easy. In December, the lobby was decorated for Christmas. Our room was spacious and clean, with giant windows that let in natural light and blackout curtains that made for a great night's sleep. The street was surprisingly quiet, and the location was great for food, drinks, entertainment, and shopping. On checkout day, we walked to Fourth Wall coffee shop for breakfast, which I'd highly recommend. We returned to collect our things, checked out at 9:50, and valet brought the car so we were on the road before 10. We didn't use the hotel amenities or lounge, so I can't speak to those, but the stay itself was great. We felt safe and I'd come back.

During Mardi Gras, Gray upgraded us to a city view room, so we could watch the parades from our window. The suite had plenty of space for the two of us, and we liked the kitchenette, big bathroom, and comfortable bed. We aren't high maintenance, so the lack of housekeeping didn't bother us, it felt like an upgrade from home. The location is convenient outside Mardi Gras. During parade times, you can watch from the hotel, but road closures make it hard to get back if you go wandering. My friend and I had a great stay, and Gray, the front desk team, and security were hands down the friendliest people.