The architectural flourishes of the late-19th century Beaux-Arts building that houses the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans are a welcome reminder of the golden age of Canal Street. Much of the area is now less aesthetically pleasing and stepping off the somewhat uninspiring commercial street into the hotel, I was immediately transported into another world full of shiny marble floors and muted classical music.
The street became even more distant as I traveled up three more floors to the check-in desk. I stepped out into the sprawling lobby area and noted numerous additional lounge areas and terraces peeling off the main space. I was the sole guest checking in, and I was welcomed in the polite, formal manner that the brand looks to project.