This hotel is definitely geared to a more adult, upscale clientele. Interesting wall-size murals of jazz musicians pepper the lobby, which has a grand NOLA flair with large marble columns and floors, high ceilings, and a sweeping staircase. The Lobby Lounge -- one of the most popular hangouts at the hotel, and one of the only areas with free Wi-Fi -- resembles a library or study with its dark-paneled wood bookcases, intimate banquettes, and richly colored carpets. Open for coffee in the morning and cocktails/noshes later, the lounge is always busy with a mix of tourists and business travelers taking a break.

Located across the street from the edge of the French Quarter, and on the cusp of the Business District of downtown New Orleans, this hotel is convenient for both tourists and business travelers. The main entrance of the hotel is down a narrow one-way street, but there's a lovely circular-drive for guests. The back of the hotel opens onto Canal Street, putting all the shops and activity at guests' doorstep (along with a few homeless people). An easy walk to Harrah's Casino, Bourbon Street, and the Convention Center, this hotel is a good starting point for anywhere travelers want to go in downtown NOLA.

Clean and comfortable, these modern rooms are nice, but a little minimalistic for the upscale rate. Rooms are decorated in neutral cream and have high-quality furnishings, including cushy Marriott signature bedding with leather headboards, and plush chairs. The amenities needed for a comfortable stay are present, such as a flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, mini-fridge, and coffeemaker -- but in-room Wi-Fi comes with a hefty daily fee. Bathrooms are lined with travertine tile in a pretty beige color, and have shower/tub combos (though the tubs are tiny) along with nice aromatherapy toiletries and robes. Unfortunately the in-room noise is significant in this hotel -- neighboring rooms' conversations can be heard through the walls, and external traffic noise reaches 30 floors up. Guests should request a corner room on a higher floor for the quietest and largest room experience.

The "rooftop" pool is actually on the 8th floor (in a 30-story hotel) but is heated and uses eco-friendly saltwater instead of chlorine. The pool is a nice size, offers great city views, has plenty of sun loungers, and is handicapped-friendly. The 24-hour fitness center is located just off the pool entrance, and is well-stocked for a hotel gym, including an entire weight-training circuit. This hotel is also good for private events, owing to the 18 separate meeting rooms and event spaces -- suited for work or pleasure. Unfortunately, two Mac Powerbook computers are all that comprise the "business center" and they're located in the lobby, so not ideal for work. Coin-operated laundry machines are available. There is no free breakfast, but the Canal Street Grill is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, serving upscale Southern cuisine along with classic fish and meat dishes.