A Creole Cottage Christmas

The Soniat House, New Orleans 

Hailed by the press as New Orleans’ finest small hotel since it opened in 1983, the history of Soniat House dates to the 1830s, when it was built as a series of private homes by Joseph Soniat Dufossat, a prosperous plantation owner, for the convenience of his family when they visited town.  That accounts for the elegant Creole style of the three neighboring townhouses, with their lacy ironwork galleries, gracious carriageway, courtyards, and spiral staircases. And during the holidays, these visual spots are graced with natural magnolia leaves accented with golden flecks that shimmer with the candles that illuminate the public spaces.

The generously proportioned interior spaces abound with Greek-revival detail, and the thirty-three guest rooms are meticulously and individually furnished with handsome fabrics and wallpapers, bedsteads carved by New Orleans’ finest cabinetmaker, and antiques from France, England, and Louisiana. Contemporary artwork enlivens the atmosphere, and the conveniences of modern living – from bath-side telephones to wi-fi – discreetly enhance the period accommodations.  The day and evening hotel attendees are awaiting your every need from arranging private parties to picnic lunches.  The addictive daily breakfast is served by courtly porters: hot tender biscuits from a Soniat family recipe accompanied by preserves with a pedigree of their own.

Afternoons are filled with smells of apple spice in the hotel sitting area where guests mingle before leaving for on their own for dinner. And the night return brings Creole Christmas Lace cookies that are customary in the local households.

Holiday rates are from November 30- December 27, 2009.

 
Superior Room at $185 per night on weekdays and weekends, $225 per night.  In addition, every reservation is subject to an upgrade.  All rates are based on availability.

Soniat House- 1133 Chartres Street, New Orleans, LA. 70130, 800 544 8808