The hotel was created twenty years ago by combining three historic Creole town-houses in the quiet residential section of the French Quarter. The remarkable renovation by Rodney and Frances Smith won every local award as well as national praise for its sensitive design and the striking taste of the guest rooms.

Two of the houses were built in 1830 by Joseph Soniat, a plantation owner who needed a house in New Orleans when visiting with his large family. Just four years later his oldest son built an even larger house. The three have become one.

The glorious detail?spiral stairs, balconies, patios are all original. Courtyards are lush with sweet olive, magnolia, guava and ginger. Comfort is the key?antique furnishings, Frette Egyptian cotton bed linen; European fabrics are balanced with data ports, voicemail and phones, even in the bathroom.

When you enter Soniat House Hotel, you have really arrived in New Orleans? French Quarter. You'll feel like a native ? the concierge staff will secure the right table, the best tickets, the perfect tour, a private car.