Big Savings in New Orleans

C'mon down to the Big Easy in August, cher, while these hotel rates are hot, hot, hot!

Prices drop in this sizzling spot when the temperatures rise. Read on for great hotel deals for a last-minute summer escape.

Stay in Style

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans-located on Canal Street in the building that once housed the Maison Blanche department store-normally features rates in the $400 range for one night's lodging. Well, hold on to your beads, because this month you can find a weekday rate of $ 169 ($ 199 on weekends). Here's another tip: Call the reservation line, and check the Web site, because they may have an even lower rate to offer you. Prices will assuredly drop even further based on availability, so if you decide at the last minute to hop on a cheap flight and spend a couple of days in New Orleans, you might find a great bargain at this jewel.

Rest Awhile

Here are just a few of the many cool things you get at The Ritz-Carlton. Live jazz plays nightly in FQB (French Quarter Bar, the hotel's casual lounge and restaurant). Sip a chilled martini, and be soothed by the music. Or check out the Bienville Strings during the day if you partake in the Afternoon Tea (starting at $22) in the Lobby Lounge.

Other amenities include the shops and world-class spa at The Ritz-Carlton. Take advantage of the fabulous spa offerings. Try the Four Hands Royal Massage, or simply relax while receiving a pedicure and enjoying iced tea with a sprig of mint. Treatments start at $35. 921 Canal Street; 1-800-241-3333 or www.ritzcarlton.com.

WANDA MCKINNEY

For more information: Call 1-800-203-2144, or visit www.neworleansonline.com for your free copy of the New Orleans Good Times Guide 2005. It's filled with hotel information and rates; attractions; and coupons for lodging, dining, and tours. For other travel information, call the Southern Living Travel Service at 1-800-758-7477.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Aug 2005
Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved