The hotel has only been open for six months, but has the feel of a seasoned establishment. The fact that it is in an historical building gives it a special ambiance you won't find in a new one. Also, it is located among other historical buildings, and the area seems to be making a comeback, with renovations here and there. The facility was clean; the bed comfortable; the walk-in shower was a definite plus; the bedroom was large and with no carpet, the air freshener was aromatic and not trying to cover up that "old carpet smell" you get in a lot of hotels; and the desk clerk, pleasant and helpful. I do have three inexpensive recommendations, two for the bathroom and one in the bedroom. First, since the lavatory & cabinet are not located in the bathroom, there is nowhere to put personal care items when you shower, so a small 2 or 3-tiered shelf is needed. In addition, the bathroom needs a hook on the bathroom door or wall, for clothing. In the bedroom, a small, folding luggage rack would be helpful. We were celebrating a wedding anniversary, and are glad we came across Hotel Vela. We'll definitely keep it on the list of hotels to stay in, when we travel from our home in Louisiana, to the MS Gulf Coast.
