Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Qtr - Astor By Ihg

The hotel's signature feature is its unbeatable location at the vibrant intersection of Bourbon Street and Canal Street, making it an ideal choice for sightseers and party-goers eager to immerse themselves in the city's lively atmosphere. Guests frequently highlight the convenience of being within walking distance of major attractions and entertainment. While the staff generally receives praise for their helpfulness and friendly demeanor, many reviews point to the hotel's outdated rooms and persistent maintenance issues, including problems with air conditioning and plumbing. Cleanliness in both rooms and common areas is a recurring concern for some visitors. Despite its central position, noise levels can be significant, particularly for rooms facing the street. For a more restful stay, guests are advised to request a room on a higher floor or one not directly overlooking the busiest streets, and to inquire about all potential fees upon arrival.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a rooftop pool that, while appreciated by some for its presence, is often described as small and, at times, dirty or cold, with some guests reporting it was closed during their stay. The elevators are a frequent point of concern, with many guests experiencing them as slow, crowded, or even having only one operational, leading to significant wait times and frustration. The ice machines on various floors are also commonly reported as being broken. Despite these functional challenges, the hotel's lobby is consistently praised for its beautiful and impressive appearance, setting a positive first impression. However, the overall impression of the general facilities suggests a need for significant updates and more consistent maintenance to enhance the guest experience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Room comfort and cleanliness receive mixed, often critical, feedback. Many guests describe the rooms as outdated and in need of renovation, with common complaints about dirty carpets, mold in bathrooms, and general stains. The beds are frequently noted as hard and uncomfortable, with some even reporting them as squeaky. Air conditioning units are a source of frustration, often described as broken, loud, or having limited functionality. Noise is a significant issue, with guests reporting disturbances from street noise, elevator operation, and hallway activity. In-room amenities are often lacking, with many reviews mentioning the absence of a microwave or mini-fridge, and some reporting broken safes. Plumbing issues are prevalent, including leaking fixtures, problematic showers and tubs, and malfunctioning toilets. A persistent mildew or musty smell is also a common complaint, and some guests have even reported encountering roaches or other pests.

Dining & Food Quality
Guest feedback on dining options is varied. The hotel's breakfast is frequently mentioned as being pricey and, for many, not worth the additional cost, with some guests also noting issues with service. However, some reviews indicate a decent variety of food options. The on-site restaurant, often identified as the Bourbon House, receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its excellent food quality, particularly its oyster bar. Many guests praise the convenience and atmosphere of this restaurant, though it is important to note that it is often perceived as a separate entity from the hotel. The bar within the hotel is sometimes reported to close early, limiting evening options. Furthermore, several guests have noted the absence of room service, which can be an inconvenience for those preferring to dine in their rooms.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, receiving widespread praise from guests. Situated at the vibrant intersection of Bourbon Street and Canal Street, it offers unbeatable proximity to the French Quarter, making it exceptionally convenient for exploring the city's main attractions, entertainment venues, and dining options on foot. Public transportation, including trolleys and bus stops, is easily accessible right outside the hotel, providing further convenience for getting around. However, parking is a significant point of contention for many visitors. The hotel primarily offers valet parking, which is frequently described as expensive, with guests reporting costs of around $50 per night. The valet service itself often receives criticism for being slow, chaotic, and unorganized, leading to long wait times for vehicle retrieval, particularly during busy periods.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff generally receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature, significantly contributing to a positive guest experience. Many guests commend the attentive service provided by various team members, from the front desk to the valet and concierge. While some guests report quick check-in processes, others have experienced slow check-in with long lines, particularly during peak hours. The valet service, despite its operational challenges, is often noted for its friendly and efficient attendants. However, there are recurring complaints about housekeeping consistency, with some guests reporting rooms not being serviced or requests for towels going unfulfilled, sometimes requiring multiple calls or in-person visits to the front desk. Some reviews also mention instances of unresponsiveness or perceived rudeness from certain front desk staff.

Additional Information
Guests frequently express frustration regarding additional fees that are not always clearly communicated upfront, including a mandatory resort fee or destination charge, which many feel is excessive or unexplained. There are numerous reports of guests being overcharged or encountering hidden fees on their bills, particularly concerning parking, leading to disputes and lengthy resolution processes. The check-in process can be problematic, with some guests experiencing significant delays even after the official check-in time, and issues with room keys not working. While some guests appreciate the presence of security staff at the entrance, others have raised concerns about overall safety or the hotel's response to disturbances. Some members of the hotel's loyalty program have noted a lack of recognition for their rewards status or benefits during their stay.