I'm heading to new orleans for 1st time in the beginning of May. I need an inexpensive, safe place(with charm, of course) to stay in the FQ. Also would like to be away from the hustle, bustle of Bourbon St.

In the French Quarter, away from the hustle and bustle?....ain't happening.

Get a room near the airport if away from the hustle is your objective. The reason to stay the FQ is to be IN the action.

When we were there in May a couple years ago, we found quite a bit of the FQ to be away from the hustle and bustle of Bourbon St. The closer to Canal St, the more going on, but the closer to Esplinade, the quieter things got, except right along the river.

We stayed at the Cornstalk Hotel on the 900 block of Royal, which was very quiet. It certainly isn't the wilderness, but we were away from the partying and crowds.

check out the french market area, Chartres street. It is FAR from Bourbon street noise

Yes, agree that the place we stayed last month on Chartres was away from busy part, but still in French Quarter. It was adequate, not fancy, and not expensive in our opionion. It was the Hotel Provincial, and they have a website so you can check rates & availability, and were rated decently on Trip Advisor when we checked.

I would also suggest trying the Chateau Hotel on Chartres.

uninen,
I would check out the SaintAnn/Marie Antionette in Conti. For a Cheap hotel I don't think it can be beat. Quiet with atmosphere. Holiday Inn owns it. Better yet, they have free parking, a great pool and very nice staff.