New Orleans Stay and Play – International House
March 30, 2009 by Sarah Bolton
Filed under U.S. Hotels, United States
My husband and I checked into the International House in New Orleans on a warm, damp Friday afternoon. After our car was whisked away to be valet parked, we were ushered into the main lobby of the hotel where opulent chandeliers hovered above artfully arranged ottomans. Colors of rich chocolate browns and deep reds created an almost hushed atmosphere, punctuated by dramatic lamps and candles. We were checked-in and escorted to our room: one of two brand new spacious penthouse suites.
Stepping out onto our private terrace offered breathtaking panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the city of New Orleans. Besides the two flat-screen televisions, the rich curtains leading into the bedroom area, included a comfortable living room area and the luscious bed itself. But the best part of the room was the bathroom. A chandelier hung over the 7’ bathtub and the open shower featured a “watering cans” shower head that gently rained water down from above.
Our first morning, we walked just a couple blocks to Café du Monde for their famous café au lait and beignets. When we returned to our room, we indulged in a Southern Flower Bath, prepared by the hotel. A specialty of International House, the flower bath is romantic and sensual, perfect for couples wanting to share a unique experience. A complete renovation of the hotel was completed in the spring of 2007. The renovation was overseen by owner, Sean Cummings and Los Angeles-based designer LM Pagano, who has designed for Hollywood celebrities like Nicolas Cage and Johnny Depp.
Our last night in New Orleans, we walked down the block to the International House’s sister hotel, Loft 523. Their bar is a chic, exclusive hangout place only open to guests staying at either of the two hotels. It was packed on that Saturday night. After we had finished our drinks, we walked hand-in-hand back to our hotel, as the city settled into the cool evening and the sounds of New Orleans drifted up to the moon above the skyline.
