I stayed at Ashton's Bed and Breakfast for a short trip before I went to Lake Charles for Travel Media Showcase this year. As a travel writer, I have stayed in lots of great places but Ashton's ranks up near the top of my list. It is gracious old New Orleans at its best.

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Ashton's front hall

Ashton's is a Greek revival Antebellum mansion built just before the Civil War and is a perfect example of New Orleans architecture. Its location on Esplanade Avenue, one of the finest neighborhoods in the Crescent City, make it convenient to the French Quarter, City Park and an easy drive to anywhere in the city. It has safe off street parking and none of the congestion you find in the Quarter. The rooms recall a more gracious era, You will not find 15 foot ceilings or marble fireplace mantels in a chain hotel.  Sitting in the living room or browsing around the hallway or dining room is like a visit to a hands on museum. They are filled with interesting items and photos.  Another plus is it has all the modern conveniences needed to make a visitor comfortable. I especially appreciated the easily accessible WiFi.

What a breakfast!

Karma and Patrick Ashton, the innkeepers are perfect at what they do. They are second generation innkeepers and native New Orleanians. Karma's parents originally opened the inn as Mechling's Guest House back in 1989. Patrick and Karma purchased it in 1998. Karma told me all the renovations they made to keep the gracious feel of the mansion.

Patrick cooks breakfast and his creations rival the top TV chef celebrities. I had a hard time deciding which of the fantastic breakfasts were my favorite but give top rank to the Bananas Foster Waffles by just a hair since the Sweet Potato French Toast with Pralines and Sweet Syrup was a close second. It's all accompanied with tasty sausages or thick slabs of bacon.

This room is perfect for relaxing

I'm a tea drinker so I appreciated the multiple choices in teas. Coffee drinkers will enjoy sampling New Orleans special coffee and chicory. You will not go hungry here as there are snacks, coffee, tea and drinks available any time in the dining room.

 I stayed in the Slave Quarters and loved my room it was cozy and overlooked the beautifully maintained courtyard. From my balcony, the 300 year old oak tree was directly in front and provided peaceful shade. Inside, the room was well appointed and comfortable. The bed was an instant invitation to dreamland. I think my favorite amenity was  the huge ball and claw whirlpool style tub. What a place to relax!

Love that tub!

Both Patrick and Karma are very knowledgeable about what to see and how to get around the city. You really feel like a family guest rather than a customer here. Even the inn cats help make you feel welcome. There are several who lounge around the courtyard. One sweet tabby let me pet him./p>

Ashton's consistently rates a Certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor. If you are planning a trip to New Orleans, you could not pick a better lodging than Ashton's Bed And Breakfast.

For more info:

http://www.ashtonsbb.com

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