My husband and I are going to NO for my 30th birthday. I am so overwhelmed with hotel choices!
I am looking for nice bed linens, sophistication, a pool is nice, french quarter location, clean!, a nice attached bar.
I liked the W French Quarter online and then you read reviews that scare you to death......I wouldn't mind a classic like the Monteleone and Ritz, but curious if something better is out there, maybe more hip since this is my 30th!
Rates seem Ok for even the high end places.
Any advice would be appreciated!

The Omni Royal looks nice, and that's why we chose it this time. For good location, I like to stay in the French Quarter. The Bourbon Orleans is very nice, and the most haunted hotel in NOLA. The Monteleone is supposed to be great with a rooftop pool. I can only speak for its Carousel Bar, which is really fun!
We were directed to stay away from the Rampart Street area for safety, and we like to be closer to Jackson Square.
Happy Birthday, and have fun!!

I stayed at the Monteleone in May and absolutely loved it. One of my favorite hotels ever. It's a unique place, with ghosts, a revolving carousel bar, and a fantastic location right in the French Quarter. I think you'll love it. Although it might not be "hip," it's definitely classic New Orleans. And the bar is always packed. I love staying at non-chain hotels when I travel. I think it adds to the experience of being in a new destination.

I like both the Monteleone and the Ritz, but if you want to look just outside the Quarter (just a block or 2 across Canal Street) check out the International House, The Roosevelt, and the Renaissance Pere Marquette.

The Monteleone would fit your requirements and is a very nice place. That would be my suggestion.

Windsor Court is our favorite. Very nice with great rooms, amenities and staff. It is not in quarter, but maybe 10-15 minute walk. Still worth it IMO.

Ilike the Monteleone but if you want to really go top shelf - http://www.hotelmaisondeville.com/ & I am referring to the cottages.

Our favorite is the Royal Sonesta. To avoid the noise of Bourbon Street, get an inside corner room overlooking the pool and courtyard. http://www.sonesta.com/RoyalNewOrleans/

My favorite areas of the FQ are on the downriver side of Jackson Square, so for me personally, I wouldn't choose to stay across Canal.