I am planning a trip to new orleans during the first weekend of august. I have a very good hotel rate in an area called metarie which is 6 miles from the French quarter. Is this an undesirable area? Would I do better off by paying more and staying closer versus having to take cabs everywhere I want to go? Is there so much to do in the French quarter area that I should not consider staying anywhere else? Any hotel ideas that are not too expensive?

If this is your first trip to New Orleans, I'd recommend staying in the Quarter. Staying in Metairie is going to cost you more in long run taking taxis back and forth to town each day. You can get really good rates in the Quarter in August. Please post an idea of the type of accommodation you are seeking, and I bet you'll get some great responses on this board.

Unless you're saving more than $100 a night, forget Metairie. Stay near the French Quarter and you won't need a car nor will you need a taxi except for the to/from airport trips. Rates in August are usually quite good.

Just got in last night from Nawlins! I suggest staying in the quarter. We stayed at the Maison Dupuy, great service, beautiful courtyard with pool and hot tub. We booked on line (try hotel reservation network, you can usually find some great deals over the internet. In August the rates should be very cheap, as it is VERY HOT, be prepared! If you want anymore info e-mail me and I will be happy to reply, have fun.

I travel to New Orleans about once a month and I strongly suggest you stay in the quarter or a bed and breakfast (there's one on St. Charles st. nested between some of NO's best restaurants and the zoo).

Try the Holiday Inn on the West Bank. They run a free shuttle every half hour to/from the Algiers Ferry (also free) which takes you across the Mississippi to the foot of Canal Street which is a few blocks from the Quarter.

Try the Dauphine Orleans. It's one block from Bourbon St. There's a "newer" part of the hotel where we stayed, but behind it there are cottages with courtyards and a small pool. It was a bordello in the 1800's. Anyhow, they have a free buffet breakfast every morning in a sunroom near the pool and fresh-brewed iced tea in the afternoons. We went in August and the rates were very reasonable. It will be very hot and muggy!!! Have fun.

We just got back from NO and stayed at the Bourbon Orleans. Nice place, good location. Stay in the Quarter because it is very easy to get around, lots to do (French Market, Royale Street, Jackson Square). There is much more to the Quarter than just Bourbon Street.

Sharon, you mentioned staying at Maison Dupuy, I'm considering getting married in their courtyard in January. Do you think it would make a nice setting for a wedding ceremony/reception. I also have grave concerns about the weather that time of year, I've heard it's incredibly variable. I guess I should secure a back up plan for the day! Did you eat at the Maison Dupuy as well? how would you rate the food? Thanks for your input.