Bluegreen Vacations Club La Pension, Ascend Resort Collection

This time-share hotel, housed in six historic brick buildings, combines New Orleans' past and modern accents for a style that's all its own. Lovely hanging plants decorate the wrought-iron railings out front, while exposed-brick walls speak to the deep history of the popular French Quarter neighborhood. There are glass chandeliers, velour plush chairs, glass flowers, and vibrant paintings of New Orleans' shot-gun houses displayed, creating a modern French Decadent style through the hotel's limited common areas. Most guests here are couples, some of whom can be seen congregating on the rooftop terrace, where the dark wrought-iron furnishings are brightened up with orange-striped cushions, yellow pottery, and potted trees. Groups of friends keen on exploring the Old World feel of the French Quarter also stay here, as well as some families, but guests should not expect typical hotel features like a pool or restaurant. The hotel operates largely as a time-share property, and has a more residential feel than most area properties.

The hotel is located in New Orleans' famous French Quarter and is an eight-minute walk north of the Mississippi River and the Canal Street Ferry Terminal. Jackson Square is an eight-minute walk away and the well-known Cafe Du Monde takes only nine minutes to reach on foot. The cafe also marks the starting point for the French Market, an outdoor shopping experience near the river, though the Shops at Canal Place take only five minutes to reach on foot as well. Bourbon Street is a five-minute walk from the hotel, but for those wanting a local strip of worthy jazz bars, Frenchmen Street (which begins at Cafe Negril) is about 20 minutes away on foot, or 10 minutes by car depending on traffic. There are a variety of dining options on surrounding streets, and the closest streetcar station takes a minute to reach. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is a 25-minute drive. 

All rooms here are apartments and range from One-Bedroom Suites to Townhouses. Decor embraces the French Decadent style seen in the lobby, with a chic gray palette, French medallion carpet, black-and-white floral pillows, black-and-white photography, velour pull-out couches, and candelabras. An artsy chair nailed to the ceiling -- seen in the One-Bedroom Suite that we visited -- embraces the wild and free nature of the French Quarter, giving the room a little local color. Each unit includes a flat-screen TV, safe, separate living room, and kitchenette or full-size kitchen. Kitchenettes are stocked with sleek black and stainless steel appliances. Guests have the option of booking a room with a private balcony, but complaints have been made about bothersome noises from other rooms and the street. Daily housekeeping is available for a charge, though they will exchange guest towels daily at no cost. Bathrooms are stylish, with granite countertops and walk-in showers with glass doors plus toiletries and hairdryers. 

The hotel’s best feature is its relaxing rooftop terrace, where guests can kick back underneath umbrella-shaded tables, curl up on the canopy-covered couch, spread out on lounge chairs, and fire up the grill. Friendly competition is encouraged by a life-size chess game on the sundeck. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and free guest laundry facilities are available, too. Valet parking is available for a fee.