Big House, Bigger Personality: NO's Hippest Hostel
Hostel Week continues here at PlanetEye, and one of the funkiest around, in my opinion, is the quirky and full-of-character India House. Located in a very large, older home in distinctive Mid-City, this guesthouse truly captures much of the spirit of New Orleans, with its second-floor wraparound balcony, brightly-hued walls plastered with funky art, creaky woods, tiled antique fireplaces, and eclectic, mismatching furniture. Aquas, blues, violets, and big-bellied Buddhas are everywhere, and the decor is random, all over, and in your face. Beautiful restored dark-stained wood and huge crown moldings peek out from the chaotic clutter of clippings, photos, and signs from around the world, giving the hostel an incredibly exotic Bohemian meets Old World feel.
Truly a hipster's paradise, with a young staff and situated in a lesser-known but equally charming area, this place is perfect for those looking to stay in a cooler place with more attitude than can usually be found at hostels. Creole cabins give it even more flavor, and a pool and roomy courtyard are amenities not often found in New Orleans in general, much less hostels. And since it's in a more obscure and quieter neighborhood, travellers can really feel alternative and in-the-know, since visitors don't often wander down into residential and vibe-y Mid-City, unless they're headed out to Jazz Fest, Voodoo Music Experience/VooDooFest, horseraces, or the Degas House on Esplanade.
Being right off Canal Street, though, just a jump away from that streetcar line, the gorgeous City Park, Art Museum, Fairgrounds Racetrack, Degas House, Bayou St. John, stunning mausoleums, and accessibility to the CBD and the French Quarter (just from a different direction than the St. Charles line, since the Canal line almost takes you in through the back of Downtown) are all great draws and conveniences, and the trendy Marigny is more accessible from Mid-City as well. In effect, Mid-City allows you to experience New Orleans from a non-traditional tourist's angle in every possible way - a fitting way for someone staying at India House to see the city.
And during Mardi Gras, one of the best parades runs right past this hostel - Endymion. This super krewe is beloved by New Orleanians and boasts mutli-tier floats and a great route that ends at the Superdome. And for a long, drawn-out parade like this one ... well, you'll be grateful that your bathroom is just steps away.