Debated between the Ritz Carlton, W Hotel, and the International House. The W was booked, and expected the Ritz to be a bit stuffy, so I went with International House.
I'm very happy with my decision. I requested a high floor and got the Penthouse room, facing the French Quarter-ish/River. Unfortunately, the views were partially, to mostly blocked by other hotels anyway.
The hotel is located about 1-1/2 blocks to the French Quarter, but if you really value cleanliness, you probably should not stay in the quarter anyway. I only say that because housekeeping seemed to be less than the very best when it comes to being on the ball. Semi-clean-ish, let me put it to you that way. Obviously, I can all overlook this requirement during Mardi Gras season when a balcony room on Bourbon Street is highly sought after, but not during winter high season in general, with the rates to match.
The staff was very helpful from the start. The doorman relays your name to the desk staff as you arrive so magically everyone knows you by name by the time you step in to the hotel, a very nice touch. Our room wasn't ready upon check-in, so we were comped by their GM these wicked drinks at the bar. One sip, and my wife was toast!
On Friday nights, the hotel's lobby bar is always hopping. The gym has decent enough equipment, but is a bit cramped. A spa on the premises would have been perfect.
