Hotel de L'eau Vive (New Orleans, USA)

A lovely, no frills, historic building. The rooftop deck is pleasant as is the pool - when it's in working order. Nice views from upper floors. Just a stroll to the French Quarter, Canal and Bourbon Streets, the Riverwalk, WWII Museum, the Convention Center, restaurants, the street cars, and nearly all attractions of New Orleans.

Remarkably large units with well-equipped full kitchens are available. Save a few bucks by stocking up on groceries and cooking in your room. The suites are the largest, offering multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. Bath tubs are quite big. Beds are comfortable and television reception is great.

Front desk and housekeeping get the highest praises here! Courteous and helpful from arrival to departure.

Few furnishings decor-wise, and insufficient mirrors. Water doesn't get very hot in some units, which is a sorrow for those with hopes for a restful soak in the hot tub. Little annoyances like the hair dryers not working, tubs have rust along the edges and some areas smell odd. Ask for a different room if necessary - if they aren't fully booked, the manager will likely accommodate you.

The elevator is scarily old and creaky, carpeting is stained and decor is tired. Strange layouts throughout, explained only by the rumor that this venue was formerly a bordello. (check out the hot tub areas of some suites) The Wi-Fi has some significant struggles with connectivity and hallways are long, creepy and dark.

Good luck finding affordable parking nearby. Prepare to walk a few blocks. One guest admitted he had used another venue's parking lot for cheap daily parking - but one might suspect that's against the rules and quiet possibly a tow-able offense.