HotelTonight – French Quarter Hotels
When you walk through New Orleans, you can feel a specific vibe, a specific type of energy that you don't feel anywhere else in the world. I've traveled all over the globe, and I've never experienced a place quite like The Big Easy. There's a certain cultural influence there that sets it apart, yet there's also a feeling of togetherness with the rest of the world that makes it feel incredibly welcoming and warm. I've been visiting this place for a long time, and I've always left wishing I had some more time to experience what life is actually like there. Recently, I decided to do things a bit differently. On my last trip to New Orleans, I blocked off 24 hours to do nothing but explore the French Quarter on a deeper level. I had seen the nightlife and experienced all of the touristy things, but I wanted to get to know the people and the way of life there. I wasn't worried about finding a place to stay, either, as I always travel with my HotelTonight app. I would be able to book a French Quarter hotel room as soon as I needed one.
The Residents
I never really thought about it as it is the hub for visitors to New Orleans, but I found out that there is actually an active community of residents who work together to keep the French Quarter humming along. If you take a walk off of some of the main drags there, you'll see beautiful homes built in that unique Creole/French/Spanish style that instantly lets you know where you are. The bands that play all over The Quarter, as it's known to the locals, are almost all people who live nearby. If you are welcomed by someone on the street, chances are it's coming from a resident, as the people here are that friendly.
The Lifestyle
I always thought of the French Quarter as a place that was home mostly to controlled chaos, as the streets are pretty wild after the sun goes down. The contrast between day and night here in terms of the overall lifestyle is pretty striking. This is a laidback, easygoing Southern neighborhood during the day. There are all sorts of little shops that are fun to browse, there are bakeries and the like where people gather together to share coffees and beignets and there is a sense that people are keeping up with each other's lives in the spirit of community.
The Dining
Regardless of whether you're in the French Quarter as a visitor or a resident, you're going to need to experience the cuisine here, as it's as delectable as any place in the world. I went to an upstairs restaurant that does not advertise, and I had a plate of rabbit that I could not believe. It was succulent, tasty and seasoned in that New Orleans way that I don't think I will ever forget. There's nothing like a great meal here.
HotelTonight – French Quarter Hotels Available
I had really enjoyed seeing this lovely place in a different light. I was ready to take it easy. I opened my HotelTonight app and found a French Quarter hotel room immediately. I couldn't wait to fall into bed, satisfied with my memorable experience.