I have learned that anything much above a Holiday Inn will be lost on me so I don't splurge on hotels for amenities reasons. At the same time I also don't venture far below that quality/price point. I will spend more for a better located property as that will let me avoid rental car/parking costs.

I have also chosen destinations based on public transit availablity. There are enough excellent places I haven't yet seen I can make this choice without really limiting myself. Money saved means more travel.