Monteleone Hotel

Hotel Monteleone is something of an institution in New Orleans. It has a famous carousel bar and it's rumoured to be the place where Truman Capote had his first and by no means last drink. Opened in 1886, it is still owned by the Monteleone family.

Located in the city's French Quarter, popular gay bars like Double Play are just around the corner, and the centre on Bourbon St. is just 10-15 minutes, where you'll find the The Bourbon Pub And Parade and Napoleon's Itch.

This charming hotel has a heated rooftop pool. You can dine onsite at the Criollo restaurant and drink at the beautiful Carousel bar, pictured above.

The rooms are decked out in a classic European style. You can also opt for one of the luxurious literary suites - each one is named after a famous American writer.