Not quite, Some HGI are better than Holiday inn express, but definately not all, like those have flat screen HDTV, e.g. HGI downtown dc. HGI prices can vary a lot depends on the location, it can be close to $200 range, while Holiday inn Express usually stay close to $100. I wonder if HGI charge more because of microwave and fridge in every room.

Several weeks ago, I was at JFK, HGI charges $80 more than Holiday inn express, noted these are airport locations, most people only stay for a night for their connecting flight, who would pay a lot more, plus have to pay for breakfest if one is not gold or diamond ? Moreover, this particular HI express even give me a snack bag just beucase I am the priority club member.

For sure HGI are definately much better than HI, even Hilton created there is a difference between them. HGI you get 500 miles per stay on the fix mile, while HI you only get 100 miles. Also, only some HI has microwave and fridge, instead of all HGI.

I stayed equal amount in HGI, HI, and Holiday inn express at all different locations. If it is not because I am gold, I would definately choose Holiday inn express anytime over HGI.