Originally Posted by
BearX220
I actually think what the US hospitality industry does best is mid-range (2.5 to 3*) chain concepts and properties. Full-boat Marriotts and Hiltons and Hyatts are more erratic, and disappoint me far more often, than HGIs, Courtyards, HI, HI Express, and Four Points. Even newish 2* concepts like Microtel, which I stumbled onto for the first time last year, deliver excellent value and amenity levels.
If you tour Europe and book yourself blind into a 2*-3* property you are playing roulette when it comes to cleanliness, amenities, food, service / courtesy, and value for money. The value prop and service promise is far more consistent and satisfactory in the US.
I completely agree with all of the above as well, particulary the bolded part.
With Hampton, HIE, Courtyard, etc... I always get exactly what I expect: a clean, modern room at a reasonable price in a decent neighborhood. I've never been let down, even when blindly booking a room at the last minute.