Debated between the Ritz Carlton, W Hotel, and the International House. The W was booked, and expected the Ritz to be a bit stuffy, so I went with International House. I'm very happy with my decision. I requested a high floor and got the Penthouse room, facing the French Quarter-ish/River. Unfortunately, the views were partially, to mostly blocked by other hotels anyway. The hotel is located about 1-1/2 blocks to the French Quarter, but if you really value cleanliness, you probably should not stay in the quarter anyway. I only say that because housekeeping seemed to be less than the very best when it comes to being on the ball. Semi-clean-ish, let me put it to you that way. Obviously, I can all overlook this requirement during Mardi Gras season when a balcony room on Bourbon Street is highly sought after, but not during winter high season in general, with the rates to match. The staff was very helpful from the start.