Practical information : Accomodation Louisiana
Budget & Tips
Of course, rates vary widely depending on the type of accommodation chosen, the season and demand. A dormitory bed in a youth hostel will not cost the same as a suite in a 5-star hotel or resort. In the low season, you can find a nice room in a hostel or hotel for between US$80 and US$150, a price that rises - and can even double or more in the big cities - in the high season or during major events. It's also worth noting that accommodation is expensive in New Orleans, whatever the category.
As a general rule, prices quoted are always exclusive of tax. Not only must you add sales tax (4.45% + local tax of up to 7%), but also other taxes and fees that vary by parish or city and are set by the local tourist board for its hotel members, such as the Tourism Assessment Fee and the Occupancy Tax/Bed Tax in New Orleans. All methods of payment are accepted, but smaller hotels may limit themselves to cash, traveler's checks and/or debit cards.
To be booked
As a popular destination, it's advisable to make reservations in Louisiana, especially in New Orleans. And don't wait until the last minute to book if you're planning to attend the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans or the Festival International de Louisiane in Lafayette, as hotels sell out during these events. Of course, it's easier to get a last-minute reservation in the regions than in the city, except when it comes to major tourist destinations like Grand Isle and the Toledo Bend Reservoir area, where reservations are not a luxury.
What's very local
With its subtropical climate, it's not surprising to find so many hotels with swimming pools in Louisiana. In fact, in New Orleans, beautiful gardens with pools or spas are a common sight in the city's inns and hotels. Then there are the typical experiences every visitor dreams of, such as a night on a plantation rich in history, or a stay in a cottage in the heart of the bayous.
For food lovers
Apart from bed & breakfasts, small inns and plantations, breakfast is often offered as an extra. And you should know that many hotels of all kinds feature Cajun and/or Creole cuisine, whether traditional or contemporary.
Smokers
Smoking is generally prohibited in hotel establishments. However, smoking is permitted in the hotel bar(s) and on the terraces, unless otherwise stated. Of course, depending on the type of accommodation, there may be exceptions: smoking is often permitted on the balcony or in the courtyard of a Bed & Breakfast, and some hotels even allow smoking in the room, but this is rare. Note that some cities have stricter laws, such as New Orleans, where smoking is not permitted in hotel rooms and bars, and many establishments with courtyards - indoor or otherwise - with pools and/or spas also prohibit smoking there.