From world-famous jazz and Creole cuisine to the charm of the French Quarter, New Orleans offers the perfect mix of culture, flavor, and fun. There’s no better backdrop for 2026 IES!
Royal Sonesta New Orleans
300 Bourbon Street, New Orleans, LA 70130
United States
Phone: +1 504.586.0300 | Hotel Website
Located in the heart of the iconic French Quarter, the Royal Sonesta New Orleans blends classic elegance with modern comfort. Guests enjoy beautifully appointed rooms, exceptional dining options, and a lively atmosphere just steps away from world-class music, cuisine, and culture. With the charm of Bourbon Street right outside, the Royal Sonesta offers the perfect setting for both business and celebration.
Reservations
Room Rate
Deluxe King Room: $239
The above room rate does not include applicable state and local taxes, currently, room tax is 14.45%, occupancy tax is $2.00 per night and Statutory Tourism Support Assessment is 1.75%.
AIEN has secured a limited number of rooms for course attendees. We recommend reserving your room as soon as possible to ensure availability. AIEN cannot guarantee room and rate availability once the room block has filled up. Room rates will apply up to three days before and three days after the course, subject to availability.
Reserve Online
Reservations can be made online by clicking here in order to receive the special room rate.
The deadline date to make reservations is May 8, 2026. After this date, the remaining hotel rooms will be released, but the hotel will continue to offer the quoted bedroom rate after the reservation deadline, subject to rate and space availability.
Guest room reservations may be cancelled by individual Attendees without charge up to 3 days before the date of the Meeting, per established Hotel policies. Otherwise, the first night’s deposit may be forfeited at the option of the Hotel.
Check-in time is 4:00 pm; check-out time is 11:00 am.
Hotel Location
Explore historic attractions, captivating museums, and delve into the rich history of New Orleans, all within walking distance of The Royal Sonesta New Orleans. The hotel is less than 20 miles from the Louis Armstrong International Airport.
Travel to and around New Orleans
With 13+ airlines operating out of the MSY (including international destinations such as Canada, Jamaica, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, The UK, and Germany), there are plenty of options for catching a flight to New Orleans. For more information about the award-winning airport, please click here.
Private Hotel Airport Transfers
Please call the hotel concierge at +1 504.553.2229 to assist with transportation options that include a town car, SUV, limousine, and more.
Public Transport
Taxis & Ridesharing
Taxis are readily available at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. If using a ride-share service, please request through the official app on your smartphone. Upon arrival at The Royal Sonesta New Orleans, please instruct the driver to drop you off at 300 Bourbon Street so you may enter through the hotel lobby.
Streetcar
RTA’s streetcars offer you a unique way around New Orleans. There are the Red Line streetcars, conveniently located on Canal Street just two blocks away from the hotel's entrance. You can access the Green Line streetcar at Carondelet Street and Canal Street.
The standard fare for a one-way trip on a streetcar is $1.25 per person, with children 2 years old and under riding free. For unlimited rides, consider purchasing a daily Jazzy Pass for just $3.00, or $8.00 for three days.
Visit the RTA website for more information.
Explore New Orleans
A timeless city with a unique way of life, New Orleans is steeped in European traditions and Caribbean influences. The picturesque Big Easy calls curious minds to sweet sounds of jazz and the enchanting aroma of savory spices. New Orleans is an enticing, culturally rich haven…a sensory overload…an authentic experience.
Attractions and sightseeing
From historic homes and streetcar rides to above-ground cemeteries and world-class museums like the National World War II Museum, the opportunities for exploration in New Orleans are truly endless. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a history buff, or just looking to experience the city’s rich history and culture on a deeper level, you’ll find a variety of attractions that are sure to pique your interest. To explore a list of attractions and sites, please click here.
Restaurants
From fine-dining to $7 po-boys, NOLA food is both unique and affordable. Check out a few restaurants, where you will often times find world-renowned chefs cooking in the kitchen. The city is home to internationally recognized chefs, who are encouraged by locals and visitors alike to experiment in the kitchen and serve up some of the world's most unique and creative dishes that are always seasoned to perfection.
Useful websites
Visit New Orleans - https://www.neworleans.com/
Trip Advisor - https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Products-g60864-New_Orleans_Louisiana.html
Tour Louisiana - https://www.tourlouisiana.com/
Visa Information
Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel. Please click here for more information on visa requirements per country.
If you require a letter of invitation to obtain a visa for this conference, payment of the registration fee must first be made. If you apply and do not receive a visa, please send us a copy of the rejection letter from the consulate, and we will refund your payment in full. Please email events@aien.org for more details.