I also most often stay at my preferred hotel intstead of at the location of an event or conference. Of course I do this because I want what I consider the best hotel in town, but I also do it for reasons of privacy and relaxation.
If I stay at the local Four Seasons, for example, instead of at the site of the conference/convention/event, it's much less likely that I will run into every Tom, Dick and Harry at the hotel bar, swimming pool etc..., and then have to say hello and make small talk. If other people from the same event are also staying at the same hotel, they will likely be senior management types, or otherwise like minded people who have chosen the hotel for the same reasons I have.
I have even done so when I have attended large weddings, alumni events, and gatherings with extended family
