My wife and I usually stay at Le Meridien because of its convenience to the French Quarter, and the fact that you can get away from the bustle and noise when you want.

With that said, the rates are way up through November, and we were wondering if anyone had any other suggestions? We're looking for something reasonable within walking distance to the French Quarter. Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!

There is a Marriott Courtyard on St. Charles (just across Canal from the Quarter - and just around the corner from the Meridien.) There are also many choices in the CBD that are within walking distance to the Quarter - International House and W to name a few. There are the places that are basically in (or very near) the Quarter but kind of seem not to be - such as Doubletree, Hilton, and Westin Canal Place. (or is it Wyndham now - I can't remember.) There's also the Sheraton on Canal. There are B&B's on Esplanade such as Melrose Mansion that might interest you. Don't forget about the new Ritz-Carlton. Not exactly a budget spot, but maybe they have some grand opening specials. Just remember that all rates are going to be high in November. Hope this helps.

We've been to NO several times, and my favorite place to stay is Place d'Armes (location wise) It was very quite, small motel. We were real pleased with it and prices were reasonable. Ask for room with window, as some don't have one. Locaation was perfect.

Hal - The Fairmont might be another option for you - close to but not in the Quarter.

Try the Maison Dupuy. It is right in the French Quarter only 2 blocks from Boubon St. It made up of several restored townhomes overlooking a pool and courtyard.

Over the years, my husband and I have stayed at quite a few of the hotels on the fringe of the French Quarter. The Hilton, Hyatt, Le Meridien, Fairmont, Windsor Court...and I'm sure there have been others. Frankly, we haven't been as pleased with any of these as we have when we stayed IN the French Quarter. Our current favorite is the Royal Sonesta (in a room overlooking the pool/courtyard rather than Bourbon Street), but there are lots of other good choices too. All this depends on which weekend you're trying to book, as some are much busier than others. The last weekend is the Bayou Classic, and it's very busy, and I think there are several conventions during November, too.

I just decided to go to N.O. just before thanksgiving and found a lot of the places mentioned here sold out. I was able to make a reservation at the Holiday Inn-Chateau Le Moyne in the French Quarter. Fodor's and many people in this forum say it's great. I booked online at holiday-inn.com and got a great rate.
Good luck!
Marlena

Have you actually stayed at the Maison Dupuy in the past year. We have reservations there in January 2001 and want to know how you may have felt about the walk to and from FQ to Maison Dupuy. We also wonder if they have re-decorated in the past 5-10 years?

Just got back from New Orleans. Stayed at the Royal Sonesta on Bourbon (make sure to ask for courtyard room). Hotel was clean and staff was courteous. Reservations should be made well in advance. We tried four months before our trip and couldn't get the exact week we wanted. It's worth waiting for.