I agree with you, Quiet Lion, while I love soaking up the atomosphere abroad, when I come back to my room, fully exhausted, I appreciate knowing what I'm getting. That being said, I've stayed in some beautiful, intimate "American" hotels, that were formerly townshomes (the Sheraton Pulitzer in Amsterdam for example). Which I would gladly take over the 'local' Grand Hotel, mega property.
Also it is generally easier to find out information on the hotel on the US web site, make reservations, ask questions, register complaints etc.
Not to mention the fact that at these American' hotels you can earn our favorite points/ credits!