Have you ever stepped into a hotel and felt like you were at home? I immediately felt a feeling of calmness, peace, and serenity after walking into Hotel le Marais. The hotel exudes chic beauty and serenity in a boutique setting. Purple is one of my favorite colors and I loved the violet and lavender theme that existed throughout. The hotel is contemporary yet still captures the unique charm of the French Quarter. 

Upon my arrival, I was warmly greeted by Erica at the front desk. The boutique nature of the hotel makes the service experience more personal. In less than 5 minutes I was checked in and on my way to my room. Erica was extremely helpful and provided my husband and I with a map. She even took time to write out directions to points of interest while providing advice for safe routes to take at night. I'd also like to compliment Ralph, who was extremely gracious and extended my check out time. 

There are so many little things that Hotel le Marais does that set it apart from other hotels. The hotel realizes that the smallest gestures make the greatest impressions. Pay special attention to the following complimentary touches that the hotel offers.

Daily Complimentary Breakfast

The daily complimentary breakfast is one of the best buffet breakfasts that I have ever received at a boutique hotel. There was a great selection of hot and cold items including bacon, sausage, breakfast potatoes, boiled eggs, cereal, yogurt, bagels, toast, and various pastries. When it comes to breakfast buffets I am very hesitant to eat scrambled eggs. However, the scrambled eggs here were fantastic!

It was wonderful to have a hearty breakfast at the hotel before sightseeing every morning. Breakfast items were constantly monitored and replenished by hotel staff. Even during peak periods, the amount of guest traffic in the breakfast area was not congested as it is in larger hotels. 

Bottled Water

My room came stocked with two complimentary bottles of water. The housekeeping staff would also replenish my bottles after cleaning my room. I thought this was incredibly thoughtful considering that I was visiting during the Summer. Chilled bottled water was also readily available at the front desk. 

Welcome Drinks

After checking into the hotel, I received two coupons for two free welcome drinks at the hotel's VIVE! Bar. I was blown away by this. I've stayed at hotels that have held Manager's Receptions and allowed guests to have complimentary drinks, but never leisurely on their own time. Make sure you order the Violet Pear Martini, it's my favorite drink on the menu.

Toiletries

My bathroom came stocked with traditional toiletries including hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. However, what really stood out to me were the makeup remover wipes. I thought that this was such a nice touch in addition to the large makeup mirror.

Housekeeping Notifications

I liked how I had the option to notify housekeeping when I needed my room cleaned. Rooms feature a button that you can press to alert housekeeping when you would like service.  Simply press a button, and the light turns green outside your door. If you prefer not to be disturbed this a great feature to notify housekeeping of your decision. This not only ensures guests privacy but also improves the hotel's efficiency. 

Amenities

In addition to the hotel's pool, courtyard, and bar the hotel features a business and fitness center. My husband loves to lift weights and found no fault with the selection of weights and equipment available. 

Location

The hotel is located on Conti Street and is a few feet away from the action on Bourbon Street. Yet, it still provides a quite oasis from all the action. I found the location to be central to many attractions. My husband and I were able to walk to many destinations located within the French Quarter including:

• Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
• Cafe Du Monde
• Decatur Street
• Jackson Square
• Woldenberg Park
• Canal Street
• Bourbon Street
• French Market/Frenchmen Street 
• The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk

We never had problems requesting an Uber or Lyft when needed. If you prefer to take a taxi simply inform the front desk staff and they'll be happy to request one for you. 

Overall Thoughts