Want to be close to the action, but not too close, getting a little rest and respite from the party scene? The Chateau Sonesta Hotel perches on the edge of the French Quarter on the corner of Canal Street (a major artery through New Orleans), Iberville Street, and Bourbon Street. Only steps away from the action in Jackson Square, close to the Riverwalk and Harrah’s Casino, and for comfort, convenience, and charm, it’s usually my first choice on a visit to the Big Easy.

By New Orleans standards, rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed. Request a room facing the interior courtyard away from the traffic on Canal and Bourbon Street. Rooms are equipped with a mini-bar, coffeemaker, hairdryer, ironing board and iron, and internet access. There’s an outdoor pool and fitness center. Standard room rates (excluding special events like Mardi Gras) start at $130 per night.

In a town where food is king, the Chateau Sonesta houses one of the most popular area restaurants, the Red Fish Grill, open for lunch and dinner. At lunch, try the Blackened Red Fish Burger. For dinner, the Sweet Potato Catfish will please your palate and your purse strings. After a night on the town, step next door to Storyville Jazz Parlor at 125 Bourbon Street for some mellow music and a nightcap before you call it a day.

For more information: visit www.chateausonesta.com.

This was a spectacular hotel and very close to all the "action". It''s only half a block off Bourbon St. and one block from Canal. Chateau Sonesta is a converted old department store, however newly updated.

There is a splendid courtyard in the center, so all rooms either have a French Quarter view or a courtyard view. The rooms were wonderful and modern (something most hotels in the French Quarter can''t say) and very well priced; of course Mardi Gras was still six months away. I''m certain that a hotel this nice and close in will cost a ton during Mardi Gras.

The staff is very friendly and accommodating. Ask any bellman where you need to go and he''ll gladly explain your options.

The hotel bar was nothing special, but a nice place to wait for your companions before heading to dinner or for a night of partying on Bourbon St.

Imagine marble lobbies, brass elevators, granite bathrooms, and private balconies and you''re thinking of the Chateau Sonesta. Enjoy your stay!