Reviews                                            

"It has been a blissful week.  We love New Orleans to death and both of us agree that River House was the best part of our vacation.  When you see something on a Web page that looks good, you wonder if the real thing will live up to the photos.  River House, as anyone who’s ever been here knows, surpasses the on-screen images many times over. We’ve had all we needed for a perfect vacation."

-- Susan and John Carter, Plainfield, Indiana

"I believe you have thought of absolutely everything anyone could want in an accommodation…every little detail plus your fabulous antiques!  I feel like we have been living on a stage set.  It has been a wonderful four days and I look forward to another visit."

-- Bonnie Brock, Santa Fe, New Mexico and St. Croix USVI

"Over the years we have rented many vacation properties but none that can match River House!  What a wonderful home this is, with all of the personal touches—art work, collections, fresh flowers, stocked refrigerator, bathrobes, books, candles.  The vacation rental is so very comfortable we found ourselves content to stay in the apartment and enjoy the surroundings, read, and relax!  Thank you for providing such a wonderful place for our vacation!"

-- Susan and Mark Cutler, St. Louis, Missouri 

"Words cannot describe the experience of this vacation apartment, but if I were to try, I’d start with:

Rejuvenating
Centering
Calming
Peaceful
Beautiful
Luxurious

In other words, let’s just say, 'I’ll be back.'”

-- Patricia Snyder, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

"For a unique New Orleans experience, the ultimate in comfort, luxury and convenience, there’s only one choice:  River House vacation rental apartment. Located on a quiet street in Faubourg Marigny, away from the noise & tourists of the French Quarter but still within easy walking distance, River House is also two blocks away from one of the better jazz clubs in the city, Snug Harbor, several other live music venues, and a nice selection of restaurants on Frenchmen St.  And if you have a car, there’s easy parking nearby.

As for the apartment itself, the cost is comparable to that of a good hotel, but there’s so much more!  A fully equipped kitchen with not one, but three different sets of dishes, two different sets of flatware, wine glasses, juice glasses, three different kinds of coffee pots, even a salad spinner.  Two TVs, two DVD players, premium cable, computer with unlimited internet access and printer, comfortable leather club chairs for reading, access to a charming garden for breakfast or evening drinks, luxurious linens, and elegant and tasteful furniture and antiques—all located in a historic and gorgeous 1850s house—a charming, peaceful haven away from the crowds of Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.  During our 10 days there, I tried repeatedly to think of something that was not right or missing and was unable to come up with a single thing.  Csaba provides two different kinds of coffee, juice, milk, English muffins, butter, cream cheese—everything you need so you don’t have to rush out for breakfast your first day or two there.

The first time we went to NO for Jazz Fest, we stayed in a hotel that was only slightly less expensive than River House.  We very quickly got tired of being cooped up in a small room, especially since it rained two of the five days we were there.  This time, we looked forward to returning to River House after hot afternoons at the fairgrounds, and if we were too tired to go out, there was always the well-equipped kitchen for eating in.  We were so impressed with the apartment that we have decided to stay there every time we visit New Orleans.  I normally don’t believe in perfection, but River House comes very close.

Over and above the luxurious, beautifully appointed apartment, the owners, Csaba and David, are the best thing about River House.  Laid back, personable, charming (I could go on & on), helpful and eager to make your stay as comfortable as possible, they are just delightful and made our stay extraordinary.  We have rented houses and apartments over a good part of the world and have never had a reception or hospitality to equal the one we received from Csaba and David.  Csaba is extremely knowledgeable about the history of the house, about New Orleans in general, and is delightful to talk to.  He took us on a tour of the neighborhoods devastated by Katrina, gave us good advice about restaurants, and was a pleasure to be around in general.  I simply cannot recommend River House too highly.

So don’t hesitate.  Go to New Orleans, do your bit to help the city recover, and stay at River House for a marvelous experience.  You won’t regret it.

-- Sara Lee and Joel Schnur, Burke, Virginia

"Dr. Ehrhardt and I have traveled all over the world, but never have we found a vacation rental accommodation this comfortable and complete.  Also a first at River House, the hosts, David and Csaba, are as much a treat as is New Orleans—thoughtful, gracious, and well-informed.

As “post-Katrina” visitors to New Orleans (from December 25, 2005 through January 3, 2006), which certainly shows the effects of that terrible storm, we are happy to report that none of those effects are part of “the River House experience.”  The garden is lovely, the apartment is complete, and the short walk to the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the River Walk is easy, interesting, and perfectly safe.

Without any reservation, Jack and I would highly recommend this charming accommodation and would be happy to provide a verbal description to those who would like to have more first-hand information—our phone number in Dallas is 214-826-1231.

-- Harryette and Jack Ehrhardt, Dallas, Texas

"If it's self-renewal you crave, where you stay on vacation is as important as what you see or do.  Those seeking more than just a place to sleep and an opportunity to experience New Orleans culture and hospitality will find Nirvana at River House.

After spending considerable time searching the Web looking for a non-hotel experience in New Orleans that was convenient to but not located in the bustling French Quarter, Randall found River House.  The website pictures of the tastefully furnished apartment within a distinguished 1850s mansion peaked our interest.  The posted guest reviews encouraged us, and by the time we arranged our week-long stay with River House hosts David and Csaba, we looked forward to our first New Orleans trip with anticipation.

New Orleans history, architecture, and cuisine are wonderful, but River House and its owners' hospitality were the trip's highlight.  The apartment was spotless, beautifully decorated, quiet, and safe, with handy parking.  Csaba put most hotel concierges to shame.  His suggestions (at our request--these hosts do not hover) for cuisine, day trips, and shopping were all on the mark.  We ventured out frequently, but we were also so comforted by the apartment's ambience that we spent many restful hours there, taking advantage of the fully-appointed kitchen.  The day before we departed, we were given a tour of the host's quarters, and learned that they did much of the labor to restore River House to its original grandeur.

The final day of our journey we turned the apartment key in to Csaba, said goodbye, and headed to the airport.  Randall and I both felt sad, as though we were leaving family.  You won't experience that at a hotel.  Only at River House."

-- Linda and Randall, Tucson, Arizona

"Thank you, Csaba and David, for your part in creating the most memorable vacation I can ever remember.  New Orleans is, of course, a magical city.  But you have made your own magic with River House, creating a lovely, calm haven in the midst of all the madness--a warm, comfortable retreat that allows your guests to truly relax--a real "home away from home."  Besides being stunningly beautiful, and with amenities that are first rate, this apartment is close to simply everything anyone would want to see while visiting New Orleans.  But even more importantly, there is such a welcoming feeling to the place that within five minutes of arrival you feel like you've lived there forever.  The lovely personal touches—antique picture books on the tables, fresh flowers, and that warm, cozy kitchen—are truly wonderful.  Equally special was your genuine concern about every aspect of our time at River House, often anticipating our needs before we even thought of them ourselves, thus enabling us to enjoy our time in New Orleans to the fullest.  Thank you, thank you, thank you!  We look forward to staying at River House again soon (i.e., during French Quarter Fest 2005!)."

-- Nancy Currier, Atlanta, Georgia

"We are quite sure that none of the 4,000 or so other participants in the American Association of Museums annual conference had accommodations as sumptuous and comfortable as River House, including the keynote speakers at the Ritz Carlton.  All the comforts of home--and then some--are here.  David and Csaba asked us what else we might need and we were stumped; at River House, everything appears at hand when the desire for it forms.  What we really appreciated was the "sense of place" imparted by River House.  We will picture the afternoon light passing through the iron work and antique lace curtains and dream of "our" place in the Crescent City.  If New Orleans is a city of oysters, River House is the pearl.  Many thanks, et a la prochaine."

-- Nina and Jonathan Gormley, Bar Harbor, Maine

"This quiet and extremely well-appointed apartment, in a restored detached house, is much better than the website assessment. Many free items including food basics, BB internet, aircon.  Excellent kitchen/appliances/tableware & bathroom.  This is a very viable alternative to a conference hotel--cheaper, more attractive, easy 15 mins from Conference Center/Riverwalk shops via reliable riverfront trolley.  River House is in a safe, elegant district on the edge of the French Quarter, with interesting non-touristy restaurants, bars/music, neighbourhood stores.  Tastefully furnished, amiable landlords, delightful ambience."

-- Peter and Gillian Sleight, Oxford, U.K.

"My wife Dayle and I had the pleasure of staying at River House vacation apartment in early '05 and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.  Never having been to New Orleans before, we feel that we really lucked out in finding this wonderful apartment.  Its location was perfect, with easy walking access to the Quarter and an even shorter walk to Frenchman Street, with its abundance of great live music venues and diverse selection of restaurants.  It was so convenient, in fact, that we didn't find it necessary to rent a car but for a two-day road trip to Plantation/Cajun country. Besides, all the walking makes for guilt free dining!  River House itself has set the bar incredibly high for any future vacation accommodations.  It is extremely spacious and completely tasteful in every way and with every conceivable amenity.  David and Csaba's attention to detail in the restoration of this grand historic building was an obvious labor of love.  They were also gracious hosts and their astute guidance and recommendations were invaluable.  We give River House Five Stars and will undoubtedly be back!"

-- Mark Gauley and Dayle Chambers,
St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick, Canada

"River House in New Orleans offers the very best of everything:  gracious hosts who truly know the city and offer wonderful recommendations; a spacious, luxurious, and impeccably furnished apartment; a quiet location in an historic neighborhood that is just a stone's throw from the French Quarter; a perfect setting to renew one's spirit.  We are telling all of our friends about it, and can't wait to visit again!"

-- Daphne Lurie, Clinical Psychologist in private practice in Canandaigua, New York
-- Steve Sprinkle, Director of the Counseling Center at Hobart & William Smith Colleges

"Looking to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary in our favorite city, my husband Gary and I came across the River House website, with its beautiful photos expressing the true ambiance of old New Orleans.  David, one of the co-owners, responded quickly to our e-mail and helped us book our vacation dates.  Upon our arrival at River House, we were immediately charmed by both David and Csaba (the other co-owner), who welcomed us like old friends and showed us into the apartment.  Knowing it was our anniversary, they had created the perfect setting for a romantic holiday:  beautiful music, fresh-cut flowers, the scent of beautiful candles.  Gary and I had indeed arrived.

Our stay continued to be a much-needed escape from our two loving but demanding teenagers.  After our day or evening outings, we relaxed in the serene comfort of the apartment, with all its amenities--stereo system, two TVs, VCR, DVD player (with a DVD library to borrow from), reading library, full kitchen, washer/dryer, great lounging-on furniture along with the most comfortable bed around, and last but not least, a spa tub with jets that helped erase the word S-T-R-E-S-S from our vocabulary.  Life was good--really good.

As frequent travelers to New Orleans, we thought we had experienced all the many facets of New Orleans culture.  In truth, after staying at River House, we realized we had only scratched the surface of what life can be like while living in The Big Easy.  With River House taking care of our every mortal need, we were free to feel the rhythm, taste the spice, and revel in the sweet realization that there is indeed a place where you can leave all your troubles behind.  That place is The River House in New Orleans.

For all you travelers to New Orleans, stop searching for the perfect spot.  The River House IS the perfect spot.  With all sincerity, you will not be disappointed!"

-- Martha Rodriguez & Gary Fusco, San Francisco, California

"We came to visit River House back in June '03, scouting out locations for our wedding in New Orleans City Park in January '04.  We knew as soon as we stepped inside that this would be the place.  We so enjoyed coming back to this little paradise after long days of fun and entertaining.  We could close the door, and breathe, and take those 5 minutes everyone tells you to while you are getting married.  This vacation rental on its own is spectacular.  Add David and Csaba, and you have perfection."

-- Alissa and Jeffrey Jamison, Boston, Massachusetts

"Warning:  Do not stay at River House vacation apartment!  1)  No originality of decor (never mind that we expect it to be featured in Architectural Digest--soon);  2)  No special amenities (never mind the scented water for the steam iron, the padded garment hangers, the wonderful original artwork throughout the apartment, the flowers, the candles ...);  3)  Owners are unfriendly and uncaring about the needs of their guests (never mind the computer and unlimited high-speed Internet, the DVD library, the lovely, ironed linens, the abundance of everything anyone--even Martha--could need in the kitchen ...);  4) No thought is given to providing information about the area (never mind the restaurant list, the area brochures, the coffee table books on the city, the historical information David and Csaba are happy to provide ...);  5) No provision is made for the relaxation of guests after a day of touring (never mind the jacuzzi tub, the candles and soft lighting, the music channels, the chaise lounge, the down pillows ... )

In short, please skip this place because then there will always be availability for us to escape to this little bit of heaven in New Orleans."

-- Charlie & Carolyn Tice, Southfield, Michigan

"In planning a much-anticipated romantic vacation, which included New Orleans in our itinerary, we started with the usual search for a hotel, then decided to seek an alternative--but without any compromise to comfort and luxury.  Having never stayed abroad in a vacation apartment and making our reservations from halfway around the world, we weren't quite sure what to expect.  Well, River House fit the bill in every respect and, in fact, exceeded our expectations.

The quality of decor and furnishings in the apartment are first class, as are the complimentary toiletries.  We appreciated being collected at the airport as well as the very generous "kitchen stock" (bagels, cream cheese, juice, coffee, etc), particularly after our very long flights.  The apartment is absolutely spotless and the attention to detail is excellent.  Fresh flowers, room fragrances, bathrobes, DVDs, and music, as well as an eclectic library bookcase, are just some of the lovely touches you'll find at River House.  The colorful "New Orleans stories" told by David and Csaba during our conversations with them were also a highlight.

David and Csaba are terrific people and this is reflected in the way they treat their guests.  None of our requests or queries were ever too much trouble for them, and we greatly appreciated their concern, care, and help when Mick came down with the flu whilst we were there.  We have read the other reviews and feel we know just what the other guests mean in their raves.  River House offers an experience rather than just somewhere to stay.

So, would we come halfway around the world again for another River House experience?  Unequivocally, Yes!"

-- Deb and Mick Wilkes, Brisbane, Australia

"We just returned from spending our third wedding anniversary at River House, and we're already dying to go back.  We thought it looked beautiful on the Web, but in person it was even better.  Pictures simply can't do justice to this roomy, tranquil, cozy space, and David and Csaba are the warmest, most capable hosts we've ever encountered.  As soon as we arrived, we were made to feel welcome, relaxed, and totally at home; David and Csaba take the time right up front to find out what you're interested in seeing and doing (and eating!) in New Orleans, and no matter what you're looking for, they can help you find it.  Every recommendation of theirs we followed was simply perfect, and we had a fun, relaxing time exploring the city.  But even if we never left the apartment, it would have been a fine vacation.  Every time we turned around in River House, we noticed another unexpected decorative detail or convenience—David and Csaba have great taste and a pitch-perfect sense of what people really want when they're on vacation.  We'll definitely visit again, and will tell everyone we know that River House is the only place they should stay in New Orleans."

-- Alan Joyce & Kate Kobak,  Brooklyn, New York

"For our 50th wedding anniversary we wanted something special.  We found River House on the Internet and it appeared to be just what we were looking for.  It turned out to be just that.  In short, River House is wonderful.  Very spacious and immaculately clean.  We especially appreciated the bagels and cream cheese in the fridge.  We like to make our own breakfast and usually have to buy and waste a lot of condiments, but here they were provided.  Butter, salt and pepper, orange juice and sodas, an ice maker that really worked!  And, other things, like several different kinds of coffee, Q-tips in the bathroom, toothpaste, even a razor!  Plus high-speed Internet with desktop computer.  And, the hospitality.  Such thoughtfulness and attention to detail show that David and Csaba really do care about their guests.  You guys really do it right!"

-- Bill & Rubye Brown,  Galveston, Texas

"River House apartment's decor and amenities completely surpassed our expectations.  For our honeymoon we wanted someplace that felt like home but was convenient enough to the attractions, and River House was exactly that.  Beyond the flowers, wine, and candles, both Csaba and David went out of their way to see that we had a wonderful time in the Crescent City.  Their advice on where to eat, what to see, and how to get there was better than any 24-hour concierge could provide!  Thank you so much for your hospitality during our first (but not last) stay at River House, and for helping to make the first experiences of our married life heaven."

-- Jesse and Christopher Tyler,  Littleton, New Hampshire

"Dear David & Csaba,
Thank you for making our Honeymoon night an unforgettable evening—your personal touch meant the world to us.  Everything newlyweds might need you thought of, and more.  Your place has style, space, luxury, and privacy.  We recommend this to any couple on their honeymoon or just wanting to spend time with each other in a perfect setting.  We look forward to celebrating many anniversaries at River House.  See you soon!"

-- Mr. & Mrs. Judson T. Offner,  Houston, Texas

"River House is a sanctuary for your spirit.  When you walk in it starts working its magic, soothing all of your senses.  The fresh flowers perfume the air.   The gentle sound of falling water relaxes any tensions that might have clung to you before you entered.  I felt as if I were walking onto a set for a play where I could reinvent my character.  David and Csaba are like friends who find out your interests and personalize their knowledge of the city to fit each guest's needs.  They did everything they could to help, but never intruded.

We go to New Orleans often and usually stay in hotels.  We have stayed in many and most are very nice and have their own charm, but you always feel like a tourist and get caught up in the hurried pace of the French Quarter.  River House is different.  I seemed to get into the rhythm of the Faubourg Marigny district.  You become part of the easy fluid pace of the neighborhood and you go home rested and rejuvenated."

-- Carol Hobdy, Natchez, Mississippi

"Drama ... atmosphere ... the essence of New Orleans.  This place makes you feel as if you have gone back in time.  Staying here is like being part of history—with all the modern conveniences, of course.  I think I'll miss opening and closing the shutters most.  Our family could not have been more pampered."

-- Al and Linda Cole, Kilmarnock, Virginia

"River House was our first experience with renting an apartment instead of going with a hotel.  The experience turned out to be a spectacular one!  We were amazed at how beautifully the apartment was furnished—from the Renaissance Fair wall hanging to the day bed strategically placed underneath the window (a warm and inviting spot).  There was plenty of room to relax and be comfortable.  The bathroom was immaculate and the Jacuzzi tub very nice after a long day of shopping!  It was great to have a full kitchen with a stocked refrigerator accommodating our option to stay in.  I loved the fact that we were within walking distance of the Quarter, but not right on top of it.  Our entire trip was made that much more special because of staying at River House.  David and Csaba were the most gracious hosts and readily available for any questions we may have had.  It was more than all the comforts of home.  We recommend that anyone who is even remotely interested in staying here, do so…you will not regret it!"

-- Kevin Hoormann and Sandia Cheung, St. Louis, Missouri

"Part of my job as a menswear designer for Banana Republic is to pay attention to details, and this place holds up under scrutiny.  It is spacious and architecturally dramatic, the furnishings are top quality, the colors are low-key but not boring, and the way the antiques have been integrated with 'modern' works so seamlessly it's hard to believe a professional designer was not involved.  (It's just a matter of time, I'd imagine, until this place winds up in a magazine.)  I travel a lot, and River House is by far the most comfortable vacation rental apartment I've ever stayed in, and with service equal to or better than that of any hotel.  It's also very private and very quiet, but so close to the French Quarter it may as well be in it (it really is less than a 5 minute walk).  The fact that many of the apartment's luxury amenities—the robes and toiletries in the bathroom, the cotton sheets on the bed, wool throws in the bedroom and living room—were from Banana didn't hurt either!"

--Tim Hough, New York, New York

"River House vacation apartment is a true find.  Located right by the old French Quarter, you enjoy the full flavour of New Orleans, but you are just  far enough away from the crowds. I and a friend had a wonderful time, being within easy walking distance of the sights we wanted to visit, or just wandering around River House's charming neighbourhood.  The apartment is spacious, very comfortable, quiet, and spotlessly clean.  It is a clever renovation, keeping the feeling of the old structure, but with all the modern conveniences you might need.  The kitchen and bathroom are generously and thoughtfully stocked, which reflects the nature of the owners, David & Csaba, two more welcoming and hospitable hosts you would be hard pressed to find.  I would recommend a stay at River House vacation rental to anyone who wants to give themselves a treat."

--Felicity Faulkner, Artist, New York

"David and Csaba were the perfect hosts and River House is THE perfect place to stay when visiting New Orleans. Everything we requested for breakfast was available. They had no problems with my moving the day bed for my daughter.  They were a joy to talk with and the vacation rental is even more beautiful than the pictures show. The apartment is spotless and located within easy walking distance of the inner French Quarter and nightlife of New Orleans; yet, it is located on a quiet street full of life and some of the nicest people you will ever meet. We had a wonderful time and most of that was due to the hospitality and genuine friendship offered by our hosts. We were kept apprised of all the goings-on in New Orleans, offered a local guide book and directions, as well as relieved of any nervousness about traveling about the area.  I highly recommend this for vacation apartment to anyone wanting to stay in New Orleans for any length of time.  In the end it was cheaper than staying in a hotel and with better amenities than one might find in their own home. Thank you, David and Csaba, for making our trip incredible! "

--Jeri Gloege, Cleveland, Ohio

To inquire about a rental, please contact David or Csaba at: