The Big Easy gets a little easier with rates at a AAA 4-Diamond hotel shimmying down to 40% under comparable hotels.

Rooms at The Westin New Orleans Canal Place are available over the following dates for $149 per night and include free Wi-Fi ($15 daily value):

• Feb. 13-15, 20-21, 24-28
• April 1-5, 9-11, 15-17, 21-25, 30
• May 1-2, 7-31
• +$10 March 1, 7-17, 22-31

This hotel sits on the southern border of the French Quarter and is a block from the shores of the Mississippi, providing a convenient launching point to explore the city. Guests can stroll to the aquarium or hop aboard the Canal Street Ferry. The House of Blues has a full calendar of concerts, and Olivier's Creole Restaurant is ready to satisfy appetites. All are within two blocks from the hotel.

Note: Reservations are prepaid and nonrefundable.

Travelzoo Tip: These dates coincide with many local events: Congo Square Rhythms Festival (March 23-24), Easter Parades (March 31), Bayou Boogaloo (May 17-19), New Orleans Wine and Food Experience (May 21-25) and Memorial Day (May 27).