My friends and I are planning a trip to New Orleans in mid May, and we're all on a semi-tight budget. We would love to stay at a hotel/inn with New Orleans' charm and in close proximity to sites,restaurants and bars. Any suggestions?

Haven't stayed there myself, but a friend stayed at the St. James Hotel for $99/night and liked it (although there's discussion on the board about a shelter right next to the hotel - he said it wasn't a problem for him).

Web site it:

http://www.nolacollection.com/stjames/

Mid-day is a busy time here, and rates tend to stay fairly high until the summer really kicks in. In August, a $100 a night room isn't a problem. In May, it may be tough. You might want to try some of the smaller places just outside of the Quarter in the marigny. There is a website that's been mentioned on this board that might be of some help to you. Or maybe a place in the Garden District or Uptown area would fit your budget. Have a great trip.

Actually Meg reminded me of something I'd completely forgotten...May is graduation month. I remember some poor mom who was trying to find rooms in New Orleans at ANY price for a wedding party in May last year and was having very little success. I think the graduations tend to be the latter part of the month, but I'd sure book something soon.

Good point, Susan. I do know that Tulane's graduation is May 17-19. It's always busy and there's always some frantic family trying to find accommodations at the last minute!

we are going in may and we are on a budget too. i found one online @ all new orleans hotels.com i booked at royal st. charles hotel for 80.00 a night. check it out and good luck