ROYAL SONESTA NEW ORLEANS: LUXURY ON BOURBON STREET

Growing up in the Southeast, New Orleans has always held a spot near and dear to my heart. I love the idea that the South has so many different cultures, and to me, New Orleans always felt like visiting another country. You see, it’s hard to visit the Birthplace of Jazz without feeling inspired, whether by the people, the food, the music, or the scenery. Although I grew up a few hours from Louisiana, I hadn’t visited Nola since 2009. So, it was time to make my return. During my three full days in New Orleans, I knew I had to stay at the Royal Sonesta.

ROYAL SONESTA NEW ORLEANS

Visiting during December meant that we got to see the Royal Sonesta in all of its dazzling Christmas glory. As we entered, I couldn’t resist snapping photos among all of the decorated trees and balconies. We even got to experience some caroling in the lobby! Even if you aren’t visiting during the holidays, the courtyard is extremely picturesque. I can imagine visiting again during warmer weather and basking in the sun at the hotel’s pool (although, fun fact: the swimming pool is heated during the winter!).

The Royal Sonesta New Orleans‘ location was unbeatable. Situated between Bienville, Bourbon, and Conti Street, we parked the car on our first day and rarely had to drive. We were walking distance to almost all of the main attractions, including:

Jackson Square (8 minutes walking from the Royal Sonesta)
Café Beignet (3 mins)
Aquarium of the Americas (13 mins)
The National WWII Museum (22 mins)

After exploring the city all day, it was always lovely to come home to the Royal Sonesta New Orleans. In fact, after a tiring day, you don’t even need to leave the hotel to experience the Big Easy at night! You can eat at Restaurant R’evolution or Desire Oyster Bar and also grab a drink at Bar R’evolution or Le Booze without actually leaving the property. In true New Orleans fashion, you can’t go without listening to a bit of jazz. Beginning nightly at 8 p.m., you can enjoy some of the city’s best jazz musicians at the hotel’s Jazz Playhouse. I loved the idea of walking around and seeing New Orleans’ history during the day and then getting to come home and have so many options nearby.

I spend a lot of time in hotels, but I can tell you that I was particularly impressed by the Royal Sonesta. Even though the hotel is located right in the middle of the hubbub of Bourbon street, the building itself was quiet at night, allowing for deep and tranquil sleep. I honestly don’t think I could’ve chosen a better place to stay in New Orleans. So, there you have it, I give two thumbs up to the Royal Sonesta New Orleans !

Did I convince you to visit New Orleans yet? You can click here to book your stay at the Royal Sonesta!

The Royal Sonesta New Orleans hosted me for three nights: two nights were complimentary, and one night was at a media rate. Nonetheless, all opinions are my own.