Unbelievable New Orleans Stay: Marriott Warehouse Arts District Luxury!
Unbelievable New Orleans Stay: Marriott Warehouse Arts District Luxury! - A Review That's Actually Real (and a Little Chaotic)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to dive headfirst into my experience at the Marriott Warehouse Arts District in New Orleans. Forget the bland, robotic reviews; this is the real deal, warts and all. We talking honest opinions, genuine emotions, and more than a few tangents (because, New Orleans!).
First Impressions (and a Moment of Panic):
So, you know that initial "OMG I'm here!" buzz? Yeah, I had it. The location? Perfect. Right in the heart of the Warehouse District, which is exactly what I wanted. All those cool art galleries, the edgy vibe… it's a total sensory overload in the best way. Getting there was a breeze with the airport transfer – a godsend after a red-eye. Score one for the Marriott!
But…and there’s always a but, isn't there? – the check-in! God, I hate check-in. Always feels like I'm trying to navigate a bureaucratic maze. BUT, credit where it's due: contactless check-in/out was a lifesaver. No waiting in line, answering endless questions, and getting the side-eye from the front desk lady who's clearly had a long day. They also had facilities for disabled guests, which, even though I didn't personally need them, is massively important. Accessibility is always a win in my book. Elevator was crucial. Stairs… are the devil.
Rooms: Luxury, with a Few (Very Minor) Gripes
Okay, let's talk room. I went for something with a view… you know, because fancy. And honestly? It did not disappoint. The room was… well, it was luxury. The air conditioning, necessary as hell in the NOLA heat, worked like a charm. Blackout curtains – crucial for sleeping in after a night of Bourbon Street shenanigans – and a super-comfy giant bed. I mean, seriously, I could've gotten lost in that thing. Free Wi-Fi and a desk for working, which I did NOT do. (Priorities, people!)
The bathroom was a dream – big, clean, with all the toiletries you could possibly need. I did miss a loofah, but that’s just me being picky. The bathrobes were fluffy heaven, by the way. Separate shower/bathtub was a luxe touch. But, and here's my only real complaint, it was slightly…claustrophobic. Not in a terrifying way, but it felt a little smaller than I expected for the price point. And, the window that opens? Barely. I like a little fresh air!
The Amenities: Sweltering Heat and Cool Pools
This is where the Marriott really shines. The swimming pool [outdoor] was a lifesaver. Seriously, after a day of walking around in the humid heat, that cool water was pure bliss. The pool with a view… well, it wasn't the best view, mind you, but it was still nice. And the sauna? Didn’t use it. Never use them. Too… enclosed for my liking. The fitness center? Looked legit, but, let’s be honest, I was on vacation!
They also had a spa, and the menu mentioned body scrubs and body wraps. Tempting! But, you know… time. I did eye up, longingly, the steamroom. I’m now regretting not trying the steam room. What if I loved it?
Dining: Food, Glorious Food (and a Few Pricey Drinks)
Alright, foodie time! New Orleans is all about eating, and the Marriott definitely delivers on that front. They had multiple restaurants, including a restaurant with Asian cuisine. I had a killer meal at the bar one night – fantastic happy hour specials, and the bartender? Total charmer. They even had a poolside bar for those lazy pool days. Room service [24-hour]? Yes, please! Late-night cravings? Solved.
Breakfast [buffet] was… good. Standard hotel buffet fare. Didn’t write home about it, but it filled the void. The coffee/tea in restaurant was appreciated. The menu offered some vegetarian restaurant options, which is a nice touch. Breakfast takeaway service was handy for those mornings when you’re rushing to explore.
One slight gripe (again): the drinks at the bar were pricey. Like, "ouch-my-wallet" pricey. But, hey, that's the price of a good cocktail, I guess.
Cleanliness and Safety: The New Normal (and a Touch of Anxiety)
COVID times, folks! The Marriott did a pretty good job of making me feel safe. Staff trained in safety protocol, lots of hand sanitizer everywhere, daily disinfection in common areas, and individually-wrapped food options. They offered room sanitization opt-out available, which is good (some people are paranoid). But even with all that, I still had that little nagging feeling of “is this room REALLY sterile?” You know?
I did notice the effort with the anti-viral cleaning products, and they had professional-grade sanitizing services. Felt reassuring. Plus, the cashless payment service made everything a breeze.
The Good Stuff; Other Services and Conveniences
The Marriott really shines in the services department. Laundry service was a lifesaver (that NOLA humidity wrecks your wardrobe!). Daily housekeeping kept things spick and span. Concierge was super helpful with recommendations and reservations. The fact they had a gift/souvenir shop was also a nice touch for last-minute presents.
For the Kids (and for the Big Kids Too!)
I’m a child-free individual, but I saw that the hotel was very family/child friendly. They had babysitting service available, which I'm sure is a lifesaver for parents. Kids meal options, too.
Things to Do in (and Out of) the Hotel:
Okay, so the real question: what to do? Well, the Warehouse District is perfect for exploring. The hotel is close to a lot of things.. The meeting/banquet facilities looked impressive, though I didn’t use them. They also have audio-visual equipment for special events, in case you want to throw a private party (I’m suddenly considering it). They also have seminars and meetings, though it seems a little formal to me.
Accessibility Breakdown:
- Wheelchair accessible: YES! The hotel is designed to be accessible, which is fantastic.
- Accessibility Details (Specifics): While I wasn't in need of full accessibility features, I observed that the hotel features ramps, elevators, and accessible rooms. I am confident that guests with mobility needs would have a comfortable stay.
- On-site accessible restaurants / lounges: Generally accessible.
- Things to note: Check specific restaurant details for table accessibility.
Areas for Improvement (The Nitpicks, the Whines, the Honest Gripes):
I'm not perfect, and neither is the Marriott. Here's where it could level up:
- Food/Drink Prices: Honestly, they could dial down the bar prices a smidge.
- That Tiny Window in the Room: More fresh air options, please!
- More Quirks: Maybe the hotel should be a bit weirder. It's New Orleans! Embrace the madness!
Final Verdict: Would I Go Back?
Hell yes. Despite the minor niggles, this was a fantastic experience. The location is PERFECT, the rooms are gorgeous, and the staff are friendly and helpful. This is a solid choice for a luxurious and convenient stay in the heart of the Warehouse Arts District. Highly recommended. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm suddenly craving a hurricane… and a really long nap.
Rochester's BEST Hotel Near Mayo Clinic? (Indigo Hotel Review!)
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's perfectly-formatted itinerary. We're heading to the oh-so-charming New Orleans, specifically the Warehouse Arts District, and I'm bringing you along for the ride. Prepare for a rollercoaster of gumbo, jazz, questionable life choices, and the potential for a serious sunburn. Here goes:
Day 1: Arrival & a Baptism by Gumbo
- Time: Roughly whenever I manage to drag myself out of bed after the red-eye. Let's say…10 AM.
- Location: New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District – Okay, let's be honest, the hotel is slick. Modern, clean lines, a rooftop pool that screams "Instagram me NOW." But seriously, after a night of being squashed in a metal tube, all I want is a shower that doesn't feel like a lukewarm drizzle.
- The Mission: Unpack (eventually). Assess the damage from the flight (mostly just a slight case of existential dread and a desperate need for caffeine). Scout out the French Quarter (because, duh).
- Transportation: Uber, probably. My rental car skills are… well, let's just say New Orleans traffic doesn't need me behind the wheel.
- Lunch: Central Grocery and the Muffuletta (12:30 PM): Okay, story time. I read about this place. Everyone raved about the Muffuletta, the king of sandwiches. It's a mountain of sliced meat, cheese, and olive salad piled high on a sesame loaf. I'm talking Towering! I mean, it's so big, you'll need a nap afterwards, guaranteed. Finding this place was a mad dash through a maze of streets while navigating the sheer volume of people. Worth. Every. Minute. Bring cash, because I'm pretty sure they don't take credit cards (old school, I love it).
- Afternoon Detour: Wandering the Quarter (2:00 PM): Forget the itinerary. Walk. Just walk. Get lost in the wrought-iron balconies dripping with flowers, the street performers belting out blues that give you goosebumps, the smell of beignets frying in the air. That's the real New Orleans. Don't rush, don't plan. Just… absorb.
- The Bourbon Street Conundrum (3:00 PM): Okay, so Bourbon Street. It's an experience. Let's just say it's loud. It's bright. It's… crowded. It's also strangely fascinating. I'm not sure I'd recommend spending an entire evening there, but a quick peek? Necessary. Just be prepared for flashing lights, questionable cocktails, and the potential for spontaneous dance parties.
- Dinner: Gumbo Time! (7:00 PM): This is non-negotiable. Finding the perfect gumbo: a deep dark roux. Crawfish, shrimp, and all that goodness… that's the mission.
- Evening: Post-gumbo coma and a few hours of exploring the streets and the people, then back to the hotel to unwind. This city doesn't sleep, might as well join the party.
Day 2: Art, Architecture & Regret (Possibly)
- Morning: Trying to function after yesterday's adventure… The gym is calling to me, but I'm sure that the local breweries will be much more fun.
- Brunch: Café Du Monde (11:00 AM) - Beignets, baby! These powdered sugar pillows of deliciousness are truly something else. Make sure you get a coffee, because they can get messy (this is essential and to be anticipated). Warning: You'll be covered in powdered sugar from head to toe. Embrace it.
- Afternoon: Arts & Architecture (1:00 PM): This is the official "art" part of the trip. My goal? Stumble upon a gallery that makes me feel something. Whether that "something" is joy, confusion, or the sudden urge to buy a very expensive piece of modern art remains to be seen.
- Warehouse District Wandering (2:00-4:00 PM): I will be wandering, just letting the district wash over me.
- The Frenchmen Street Experience (7:00 PM): Live music. Jazz. More booze. I'm thinking a dive bar, maybe. Somewhere with character and the kind of bartender who's seen it all.
- Late Night: This is where things get hazy. Let's just say, if you see a blurry photo of me with a feathered boa and a questionable smile, don't be surprised.
Day 3: Swamp Tours & Saying Goodbye (Sob)
- Morning: Attempt to redeem myself for whatever shenanigans I got into last night. (Probably mostly failed).
- Swamp Tour (12:00 PM): Yeah, touristy, I know. But gators, swamps, and that uniquely Louisiana vibe? Worth it. Plus, I'm fascinated by alligators. They're like ancient, grumpy dinosaurs with killer instincts.
- Afternoon: Packing, weeping a little bit because I have to say goodbye to this amazing city.
- Dinner: One last hurrah, a final ode to delicious food and good times.
- Evening: Heading back to the hotel and then the airport.
Important Notes & Ramblings:
- Hydration is KEY: It's hot. Drink water. Lots of it.
- Embrace the Mess: This isn't a perfectly polished vacation. It's an experience. Expect the unexpected.
- Leave Room for Spontaneity: Some of the best moments happen when you ditch the plan.
- Tip Generously: These people work hard, and they deserve it.
- Be Open-Minded: Talk to the locals. Ask for recommendations. Try everything.
- Emotional Rollercoaster: Be prepared.
- Things I'm Definitely Bringing: Comfy shoes, a sun hat, an open mind, a healthy dose of cynicism, and a never-ending appetite.
- Regrets? I Have a Few… But I'm sure I'll make plenty more.
- Final Thoughts: New Orleans is a city that gets under your skin. It's a place that celebrates life in all its messy, glorious forms. It's a place that will make you laugh, cry, and question your life choices all in the span of a few days. And I wouldn't have it any other way.
Unbelievable NOLA Stay: Marriott Warehouse Arts District Luxury... Or Is It? A Rambling FAQ
Okay, so "Luxury"... Really? Is this place actually fancy, or just, you know, *pretending*?
Alright, alright, let's get this out of the way first. The "Luxury" part? That's… debatable. The lobby? Definitely trying. Think polished concrete, a splash of (possibly faux) velvet, and a chandelier that’s either fabulous or desperately trying to be. My initial reaction? "Wow, impressive!" followed quickly by, "wait, where are all the people?" (More on that later.) It's got the *look* of luxury, the Instagram potential is high, but authentic, bone-deep luxury? Hmm. Feels a little surface-level, like they're wearing a really, really good tuxedo, but the socks are falling down. Or maybe it was just me having a bad day, maybe I just wanted to be pampered.
The Location - Warehouse Arts District. Great, Terrible, or Just… Fine?
The location? Okay, let’s break this down. Warehouse District – it's where the cool kids *try* to hang out, right? Loads of art galleries (mostly closed on a Monday, FYI), some amazing restaurants (thank GOD), and a general vibe of "we used to be a bunch of warehouses! Now we're… trendy!" It's not the French Quarter, thank god. You escape the total chaos. But it's not *super* walkable. You’re gonna Uber or... well, I ended up walking in heels once. Mistake. Huge mistake. Cobblestones are the devil. And then there was this guy, I swear, he watched me stumble off the curb. He *snickered*. So, location? Fine. Good access to some GREAT food, but plan your footwear accordingly. (And maybe a therapist, after THAT guy’s laugh.)
The Room! The Most Important Thing! Spill the tea! What was it like?
Okay, here’s where things get…complicated. The room itself? Decent. Spacious. Clean. The bed? SO COMFORTABLE. I could have stayed in that bed for a week, just ordering room service and staring at the ceiling. But... little details. The lighting was… odd. Like, really odd. Everything was so dim, and I had to use my phone's flashlight to find my things. There was a weird smell, a faint… mustiness? I’m not sure if it was the air conditioning or what. And the view? Overlooking an air-conditioning unit. Seriously. A GIANT, humming, clanking air-conditioning unit. Again, surface level luxury. The room felt… unfinished. Like they’d run out of money just before the final touches. Maybe. I'm probably being overly critical, I just wanted more luxury.
Room Service: Worth the Indulgence? Or a Pricey Disaster?
Room service… oh, room service. I went for the shrimp and grits. Because, New Orleans, right? The shrimp? Perfectly cooked. The grits? Creamy, decadent. The price? A small fortune. Seriously, by the time they added the fees, the tip, and I think they charged me for *breathing the air*, it was almost as much as the room cost. And the tray? Left outside my door for like, hours. I'm not judging (Okay, I am judging). It was… not ideal. I suppose for me it was, well, I'm a messy eater.
Tell me about the Pool! Because it’s always about the pool!
The pool… *sigh*. This is a tough one because the pool was just...sad. It looked amazing in the pictures. A rooftop pool, with a bar, views of the city… But when I got up there? Practically deserted. And the water? Freezing. I mean, absolutely glacial. So, I didn't get in. I sat by the side for about five minutes, and looked at a couple of sad looking sunbathers before retreating. The bar? Closed. The whole experience felt… abandoned. Like, "We tried, but nobody really likes pools up here" Deflating, I felt like a deflated balloon. It was like the Hotel itself! Almost.
Okay, so overall... Would you stay again? Give it to me straight!
Okay, okay, the honest truth? It’s a mixed bag. I'd probably stay again, but… with caveats. If I could get it on a serious discount. If I needed a comfy bed. If I *really* wanted to be close to those amazing restaurants. If the pool magically got warmer (and open!). But if I was looking for true, deep-down, "I'm treated like royalty" luxury? Nah. Not really. It's … trying. And that's okay. Maybe if you are just looking for a great place!
Let's talk about the Staff... Were they nice? Did they care?
The staff… now, here’s where things got REALLY interesting. Some I spoke with, were clearly overworked. They were pleasant, but you could tell they were running on fumes. The front desk folks, were, well, I got the impression they were trying to be cool, but it felt a little bit forced. There was one woman at the elevator who was absolute sunshine. She was fantastic. And then the cleaning staff, were, well, they were efficient. But, the level of service… It just didn't quite match the "luxury" billing. I think the staff was trying, bless their hearts.
Now, about that "Where Are All The People?" observation... What's That About?
Okay, this is the big one. The "Where are all the people?" thing. I felt, at times, like I was practically the only person there. The lobby was empty, the pool was deserted, and hallways were silent. I ran into more staff than guests, at times! Was it the middle of the week? Maybe. Was it the off-season? Possibly. But the lack of people, it created this weird, almost sterile vibe. It was just… odd. It felt less like a bustling hotel and more like a fancy museum, where you’re the ONLY visitor. It was eerie, a bit sad. It's like the hotel itself knew it wasn't truly "luxury".
Post a Comment for "Unbelievable New Orleans Stay: Marriott Warehouse Arts District Luxury!"