I chose to stay at Jamal's on a recent trip to New Orleans for an academic meeting. My aim was to stay in one of the neighbourhoods that might give me a better sense of life in the city than a stay at a conventional downtown hotel. It worked really well and I very much enjoyed my stay.
The place is just as indicated and was spacious, nice and clean if a bit aseptic. I did have a problem with getting in as I had been sent the wrong door key information but that was quickly rectified with a phone call.
The area is low key but friendly and a bit hipster. I went to the nail salon just around the corner and the folks were very friendly and accommodated me at the end of the day. There is a fabulous breakfast/lunch cafe just down the road http://www.pagodacafe.net/ where I would be happy to sit all day and watch the world slowly go by. Buses are an easy way into the city and are pretty frequent and cheap - $1.25. Travelling on public transport provided a nice way to chat with local folk. I used a taxi to get back late at night as I was travelling on my own and this was about $10-13. The area was quiet at night and I slept very well.
The area to the north of Jamal's is still devasted from Katrina. I met with a wonderful woman, Vanya, who showed me around and explained what had happened to her family. It was a lovely encounter which really made my trip. Would definitely consider staying at Jamal's again.