I go by where I have status and the best service and the least amount of fuss. SPG always have insane promos so I try to maintain SPG Platinum each year. Hence I choose a hotel for any given destination like this:

1) Starwood Starwood Starwood!
in absence of any prior experience with the city I then choose in this order subject to whats available:

- W
- St Regis
- Le Meridien
- Westin

2) Hyatt

3) MO / 4 Seasons / Shangrila where I have no status but stayed at a few of them at odd times and found them to hit the spot.

I rather pay 200 USD and have a perfect day (perceived value) than pay 100 USD and feel like I have better facilities at my own condo (perceived rip-off).