I know I'm a bit late, but...

As of right now, I would agree that Hampton Inns have a bit of an edge over Holiday Inn Expresses. However, as a part of Holiday Inn's chainwide relaunch, new hotels are being built, and ALL existing hotels are being renovated. Once the relaunch is complete in 2010, Holiday Inn Expresses will be just as consistent as Hampton. Fairfield Inns are also very comparable.

Comparing regular full-service Holiday Inns to Hamptons is comparing apples to oranges. Regular Holiday Inns compare directly to Courtyard and Hilton Garden Inns.

On a side note, I have noticed that many Comfort Inns/Comfort Suites are being updated or replaced with new hotels, just like Hamptons, HIX's, and Fairfields. They also have bed/bath/breakfast programs just like them. Would you say Comfort Inns/Comfort Suites compare? I think so, but I would really like to know what others think.