The Alexa in the French Quarter shares the management team of the Astor Crowne Plaza next door. These two establishments are so closely connected that you can check into the Alexa at the Astor's front desk! (And vice versa.) Alexa guests also have access to Astor amenities like the rooftop pool and the fitness center. Yet the Alexa is a little less expensive. Why? Since the Crowne Astor Plaza really targets the business/convention traveler, those guests will find things like high speed Internet access. At the Alexa there's just dial up and web TV. As a result, you're likely to find more tourists in the Alexa property... or business travelers on a tighter budget.

Features that set the Alexa apart:
Families in particular like the higher ceilings in the Alexa rooms that make these spaces feel BIGGER. Kids love the Nintendo. Everything is decorated to have a European flair. Check out the sizzler summer rates that can dip as low as $59/night.

If you want a luxury dining experience, go to Dickie Brennan's Bourbon House Restaurant with an entrance from the Astor. (The Astor and Alexa buildings are connected so you never have to walk outside.) There's a wonderful Oyster Bar here that promises to please. If you want something more casual, take a quick walk a block or two over to Mena's Palace (525-0217), a great sandwich joint at 200 Chartes cata-cornered from the Walgreens. The muffelata on French ($6.00) is awesome.

Other Alexa pluses?
I thought the staff at the front desk was absolutely first rate friendly. The location is in the middle of the French Quarter just steps from a streetcar. This is a good place to stay.