Value and quality are two of my sticking points for hotels. As a travel professional and a resident of New Orleans, I know what getting a hotel here can be like. I know many travelers demand proximity to the French Quarter, but New Orleans is a big little city and suburban properties can give you incredible bang for your buck, IF you are willing to drive. ENTER: The Candlewood Suites Avondale. This beautiful 2 year old property is located 30 minutes from downtown. That's right...it's less of a drive than getting halfway across Houston...or staying near Miami Airport but going to South Beach. The HUGE rooms are kept immaculately clean (considering there is only weekly room service) with a king or 2 doubles. There is no pool at this location but there is a nice pool at their sister property just across the parking lot. One of the nicest fitness centers you will find in an
extended stay type property. Friendly staff that care not just for each other, but the guests. Avondale has experienced minimal development, so keep in mind there are only basic restaurants and stores (pharmacy, grocery). The bustling activity of the Westbank OR Clearview Parkway is only 15 minutes away. There, you can find just about any retail outlet known. Bus groups, sports teams attending events on the Westbank, or budget conscious travelers would do well to consider the Candlewood Suites for their next trip to New Orleans.