PLACE D'ARMES HOTEL

The only hotel amid the street performers, tarot card readers, artists, cafes and shops of Jackson Square, the Place D' Armes' flowering courtyards, magnolia trees and 18th century buildings exude classic French Quarter romance and charm. Guests can stroll just a block to revel in the delicious decadence of Bourbon Street or walk just steps to St. Louis Cathedral, the world famous beignets of Cafe du Monde, and twists and curves of the mighty Mississippi River. Guests enter the lobby via a brick alley with a mysterious, Old World feel. The Place D' Armes is actually nine restored 18th travelers. garden courtyard encircled by magnolia and crepe myrtle trees. The second floor balcony overlooks Chartres Street, a favorite of street artists and musicians. One of the buildings the tallest is only five stories was once used for slave auctions. Before venturing out to prowl the Big Easy, guests can nosh complimentary New Orleans style continental breakfasts of cafe au lait, fresh croissants, pastries, fresh orange juice and hot tea in the hotel's breakfast room overlooking St. Ann Street and Jackson Square. Guests also enjoy their meals in the courtyard or their rooms. The hotel doesn't have its own restaurant, but, this being New Orleans, guests can find plenty of dining options in the area to satisfy their culinary curiosities. Meanwhile, the 83 guest rooms feature accommodations ranging from deluxe balcony and courtyard rooms to the interior rooms without views for bargain savvy travelers. They feature exposed brick walls and antique style furnishings recalling the city's golden age, and modern conveniences like Internet access and coffee makers. The Place D' Armes is popular among couples for its romantic setting, and its French Quarter location is equally attractive to leisure and business century buildings, which surround and shade a terraced