New Orleans is, without question, one of the great historical melting pots of the United States. As such, it is always a privilege to experience that well-cherished heritage through the lens of contemporary standards of indulgence. The Audubon Cottages collection specialises in filling that niche precisely.
Beyond global centres of commerce and major national metropolis, it is difficult to think of a place that evokes such a unique sensation as New Orleans.
The Big Easy has become synonymous with a particular approach to life – one of laissez-faire, of revelry and excitement, and of casual and habitual luxury. The expression joie de vivre might have been invented specifically for the Creole capital. Even after the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina, it is a testament to the character of the city and its people that events such as Mardi Gras and the Jazz & Heritage Festival were never cancelled and have continued in the same spirit in which they were conceived.
The Audubon Cottages in themselves could perhaps be said to represent the Phoenix-like spirit of Louisiana’s largest urban centre. They were built shortly after another natural disaster – a series of two great fires in the late eighteenth century which destroyed much of the city. From the early nineteenth century onwards, the city established itself as one of the great free-thinking, welcoming conurbations of what was to become the USA.
On a micro-scale, Audubon Cottages were quietly establishing their own place in history. During the year 1821-2, famed painter and naturalist John James Audubon – the cottages’ namesake – stayed in what is now known as Cottage 1 of the collection while working on illustrations for his seminal book Birds of America. Set deep in the French Quarter, each of the Audubon Cottages have a story to tell – from wartime stories to tales of hauntings – all infused with a deliciously local Creole twist.
These residences, originally built in a French colonial style but subsequently updated through periods of Spanish occupation to short-lived Republican freedom, and from the American Revolution through to the present day, are ‘cottages’ only in name. Exquisitely decorated, gilded with vine-like plants and an abundance of bright flowers, and positioned around what is commonly held to be the oldest swimming pool in the French Quarter, these are guest houses of the highest quality. Beautiful stone and brickwork abound in a communal area outside the pool itself, which is refreshingly and authentically salt-watered in a region that is famed for its maritime exploits.
Stepping inside the cottages, you can tell immediately why they are described as ‘the premier bed and breakfast alternative’, with home comforts taken to a superlative level in each of the seven residences. King and/or Queen size beds feature in each, along with various combinations of private fountains, charming fireplaces, hardwood floors and crystal chandeliers. With private courtyards and wrought-iron furnishings completing the effect of old-world mystique meets modern day glamour, it is small wonder that Hollywood golden girl Elizabeth Taylor favoured the residences during her stays in New Orleans.
The beauty of the buildings themselves, the setting, the pool and the wonderfully lush garden might not be enough for some guests, however. In which case, Audubon also makes sure that they cater to every guest’s every need by providing a dedicated, on-site French Butler service. This is what truly sets Audubon apart from their competition: where the indulgent experiences of some establishments end with the revelation of a corporate style and impersonal level of service (or, conversely, the amateur attempts of some B&Bs), Audubon goes beyond what many might expect of a boutique hotelier. The butler is available every day to every guest to offer a complete individual service. From unpacking suitcases to making dinner reservations at recommended restaurants, Audubon’s butler service combines the benefits of a concierge with that of a personal valet – and everything in between.
Just one block from the celebrated Bourbon Street, yet surprisingly ensconced in a quiet and peaceful setting, Audubon Cottages are ideally situated for almost any occasion to visit the Big Easy. And, frankly, when considering this beautifully hidden-away retreat, positioned in the heart of a city with the magic of New Orleans, why would you need an excuse?
First published in Beyond Indulgence: http://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Indulgence-Nick-Artsruni/dp/1905904304
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