The Royal Sonesta Hotel, located on the world famous Bourbon Street in the center of the French Quarter in New Orleans, La., exudes European elegance and Southern charm. The hotel is only one half block from the Aquarium of the Americas and Harrah's Casino, and a short drive from the Audubon Zoo, Six Flags New Orleans and the Living Science Museum. Jackson Square is another popular nearby option, where quaint shops, street performers, tarot card readers, artisans and other entertainers ply their trades, just six blocks from the hotel.

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is 13 miles from the hotel.

The seven story Royal Sonesta Hotel is built in traditional French Quarter style, with gabled windows, French doors and wrought iron balconies from which guests can watch the action on Bourbon Street, especially during Mardi Gras. Visitors can dine on French and Creole cuisine at Begue's, then have a cocktail at Le Booze bar, which opens onto Bourbon Street for a quintessential New Orleans experience. In addition to street level shopping, the hotel features an outdoor pool, fitness center, information desk and in room massages.

With multiple conference rooms, audiovisual equipment and a location near the central business district, the hotel caters to corporate travelers and wedding parties, but tourists consider the Royal Sonesta Hotel a favorite because of its central French Quarter location.

Less than one and one half mile from the Royal Sonesta Hotel on Decatur Street, is the home of the muffuletta sandwich, Central Grocery. According to local legend, the muffuletta was invented by Signor Lupo Salvadore in 1906, the original owner of the now famous little Italian market.

Recovery efforts are still under way in the New Orleans area in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

Some attractions as well as hotel facilities and amenities may be limited.