When it comes to New Orleans, it's a place that's well-known for three things - their music, food, and entertainment, but we can't leave out their beautiful architecture! In January, I took my second trip to Nola, well prepared after not having the top-notch experience I wanted from my first visit. As a matter of fact, my first visit to Nola in Jan 2017 left me with the impression of the night after street vomit & fog all of 2017. Fast forward to EXACTLY a year later, as if the universe specifically called for a Nola redo this time my reason for visiting Nola was a wedding.
I can't quite put into words how captivated I was from their breathtaking architecture that filled the city. So to spare you a long spill; I'll just say it was simply amazing. But speaking from an interior decorator standpoint, the characteristics of the scenery and different houses really caught my eye because many of the 1800's century style homes are still around and in great shape. The styles of home in New Orleans vary, but they usually fall in these categories of; creole cottage (which is the oldest style) two-story townhouses, shotgun house, double gallery house, central house, and Bungalows. Because of the humid weather and living so close to the water, these houses were constructed with these things mind to accommodate their lifestyle. So, if you're a fan of large porches, wooden frame structures, and large windows and shutters, New Orleans might be the place for you!
Even though this trip was for a purpose and not any regular tourism weekend, I wanted my time there to be as enjoyable and relaxing as possible. I planned ahead and remembered a beautiful boutique hotel I once posted on my Instagram. So, it was only right; I stayed there. The hotel rate is a little on the high end; therefore, it's not for every budget. However, a treat to yourself is priceless, is it not? I arrived at the airport, grabbed an Uber and started my journey. Approaching the hotel, I started to get a little worried when I realized how residential it was. At first, I thought I made a mistake because I am still very much a city kind of gal and like to be in the action. My Uber driver pulled up to a beautiful white house.
The building of the Henry Howard Hotel was true to NOLA style with the structure being a Double Gallery Townhouse that was constructed by architect Henry Howard in 1867, hence the name. As soon, as you enter the hotel, you are greeted by a friendly staff, beautiful antiques and mesmerizing jazz sweeping from the speakers. It almost feels surreal. I do have to give you a warning if you plan on booking a room at this boutique hotel, you need to do it in well in advance. Because of the high demand and the limited rooms (18 to be exact) at the Henry Howard RSVP'ing can be a challenge if you book during a festive weekend which is like every weekend in New Orleans.
When I walked into the Henry Howard Hotel, it felt like a dream! High ceiling, and a beautiful staircase leading to the second floor with hardwood that looked glazed and spotless. The lobby was to the right that was filled with men in tux drinking, laughing and listening to jazz while a wedding party was taking place. Picture a scene from Mad Men. I made my way to the desk when they pulled my reservation, and the hotel manager told me my room wasn't quite ready; however, they could offer me something better, and I said sure! Not sure what they had in mind, I followed a man that led me to the elevator to the top floor! Once we got to the room, the door was opened to a beautiful foyer. Yes, foyer with two paths which was located on the private 3rd floor. Space was certainly not an issue with this large suite that came furnished with one Queen, and King size bed finished off with an extra roomy lounge area. Each room in the hotel feature vintage furniture, detailed antiques with floor to ceiling windows that made this whole experience 'instagrammable' if that's even a term. If you're worried about getting to and from the city the location of the Henry Howard, it is right in the Charming Golden District. That means good food, bars, and entertainment are literally right around the corner. No, literally.
I believe New Orleans is a destination where people come to see the sights but stay for the culture. In my opinion, that's what sets this city apart. We know New Orleans is famous for its Mardi Gras Parades, but the music is so instrumental (no pun intended) to New Orleans; it's no surprise why it's been a music melting pots for years. Quick history fact, New Orleans was the only place in the world where slaves were allowed to own drums. Because of their rich history of African influence, New Orleans is considered the birthplace of Jazz and the Blues. Early Jazz pioneers like Buddy Bolden, Sidney Bechet, and Louis Armstrong all helped lay the musical foundation for Jazz that would spread way beyond New Orleans which makes New Orleans a place like no other.
My trip to NOLA was unforgettable, and I want to end this post by personally thanking the wonderful staff at Henry Howard Hotel for the incredible experience. And if you haven't been to NOLA, I hope you will use this post as an excuse to travel and see if firsthand. Just let the staff at Henry Howard Hotel, i sent ya, who knows you may get lucky!
