The Royal Sonesta New Orleans

They impose a $45 per night security charge, but this is buried in the confirmation email under the section titled “Guarantee & Cancellation Policy.” I had no clear notice of this fee until checkout. We were also charged for breakfast despite my Travel Pass Gold status and multiple confirmations from both the front desk staff and the restaurant staff that breakfast was included. After I raised the issue, the manager issued a partial credit, which I appreciated, but she insisted that the standard member benefits were not available at their property. Inside the room, there was no clothes hanger in the bathroom. The bedding was substandard. The sheets felt worn and overwashed, lacking the crisp, fresh texture one would expect from a four-star hotel. The duvet was thin and nearly insubstantial, providing little warmth. I was cold enough to wake during the night to adjust the thermostat. At around 6:00 a.m., while I was asleep, the alarm clock went off. It appears that the alarm set by a previous guest had not been cleared by housekeeping. The gym was closed for maintenance. There was no indication that guests would receive any compensation for this unexpected closure, even though the hotel is quick to impose additional fees during special events.

Chantel at the Front desk is an angel. Somehow my room wasn't booked for a stay for a business meeting as expected. Chantel patiently and politely waited for me to contact some work folks and then she found me a home and despite it probably being a pain in the butt, she did it with a smile and was apologetic to me despite it likely being a mistake made on my end. Thanks Chantel!

This hotel is absolutely awful. The staff are very rude and don’t know the meaning of service. When I say the worst hotel ever we have stayed I really do mean it. Nobody cares about you……. you feel you are doing them a favour staying here. We can’t wait to leave and may even check out early despite paying in advance!! The left hand really does not know what the right hand is doing. We understand the manager is someone called David Bilbley but as yet we have not been able to contract as everyone says they are the manager and nothing they can do! Please please do not stay here as it really is a terrible experience!

After reading all the reviews and staying at The Royal Sonesta, I wanted to add some information that I could not find. The top floor has 3 corner rooms with private balconies. Our room, 7002, is the only room that has a big jacuzzi tub in addition to the shower and a tub in the bathroom. Our balcony faced toward the Mississippi River with the view of the Crescent City Connection Bridge. Being an early riser, on clear mornings, we witnessed stunning sunrises. The room could use some maintenance, but overall, it was clean and comfortable. Another feature is the heated pool, and it was nice to be able to go swimming in the winter. Apparently, it is opened all year except for bad weather or issues. The bar at the pool was closed. The gym was under construction, so no comment. There is no room service, but a café, two restaurants, and a jazz bar on premises. Casual dining at Desire Oyster Bar serves food all day, has fabulous breakfast and happy hour menu includes oysters. For more upscale dining, there is Restaurant R’evolution with an exquisite menu, unbelievable service, and an elegant atmosphere. Reservation is recommended. The Jazz Playhouse with live entertainment and very talented musicians. I do want to acknowledge some people for their hospitality: Kimberly Johnston during our check-in, Derek Chivers with resolving an issue, and a very special thank you to Kourtney Rowel. Not only did Kourtney from the start make everything satisfying, but she also made sure that my husband and I celebrated our special occasion more memorably. Also, the lobby was so festive with all winter decorations. In conclusion, I highly recommend staying at Royal Sonesta; it is not a high-luxury resort, but the location and the hospitality cannot be beaten.

First time in New Orleans for Mardi Gras. The hotel is in the perfect location to walk to everything. Looking forward to the next week.