We have 5 couples traveling to New Orleans in October. I noticed the hotels near the airport are cheaper. Is the lower price due to the distance from NO or is the area around the airport not desirable ?
Thank you

"Is the lower price due to the distance from NO or is the area around the airport not desirable ? "

Both, actually!

Spend the dough and stay in the Quarter. It's worth it!

Check Orbitz. I booked the Hyatt Regency for $86.25 a night and they have a free shuttle to the French Quarter.

You may also want to try Priceline and Hotwire. You may get a great deal.

Carol

Airport area? UGH! Blinding ugliness and one heck of a drive from everything you could possibly want to do in New Orleans!!! There is a reason for cheap.

I can't believe anyone would want to go to New Orleans and stay near the airport, no matter what the price. The airport is miles away from town, and it is an ugly area.
Part of the charm of New Orleans is staying in the French Quarter or close by.
Pam B.

With 5 couples, perhaps you can rent an entire B&B for the weekend!? We've done this in Massachusetts and it makes for a memorable vacation because we were the only guests at the inn.

Another vote to nix the airport hotels and stay in the French Quarter. You'll get the flavor of the city when you stay in the Quarter- low charm factor out at the airport, and a long ride to boot. We've enjoyed stays at Hotel Ste. Helene and Hotel Ste. Marie, two properties off Bourbon St.; we've also stayed at the Crowne Plaza in the CBD, but there's nothing like being in the French Quarter. It's great to be able to walk around the area, then back to your room. Taking a shuttle or cab back and forth just wouldn't compare, IMO.

Don't stay near the airport. It's about a half hour, $30 cab ride into the Quarter. The airport shuttle is about $10-12 per person each way. Parking in the Quarter is a hassle and is expensive. I suspect that any money you save staying at a hotel near the airport will be eaten up in transportation costs.