The W does minimalism with rock-star attitude. The lobby has black-lacquer picnic tables, overstuffed couches, and leather ottomans. The absence of rollaway beds for guestrooms signals that this hotel is for adults, whether traveling on business or pleasure. The \"Do Not Disturb\" signs read \"Leave Me Alone.\"
The gym (personal training can be arranged) and a Caribbean-blue outdoor pool offer views of the surrounding hotels and casino. Three poolside, curtained cabanas feature TVs and wireless Internet access, and room service is available 24 hours daily. Guests also have access to the day spa located in the W\'s French Quarter hotel, 6 blocks away.
Mother\'s, a favorite local restaurant specializing in Louisiana home cooking (gumbo, jambalaya), is across the street.
* Le Meridien New Orleans opens following a comprehensive $29 million conversion of the former W Hotel. The renovation touched all aspects of the hotel, including a redesign of all 410 guestrooms and the debut of three new food and beverage outlets. Centrally located on Poydras Street, this new starwood offering is adjacent to the Arts District and just a few blocks from the jazz clubs, restaurants and night clubs of the world-famous French Quarter. Nearby attractions include Harrah’s Casino, the Warehouse District, Contemporary Arts Center, Ogden Museum of Southern Arts, Riverwalk and the French Market.