Originally Posted by rbAA

OK, so now I know you're trying to be funny. I can think of dozens of HI in China and throughout Asia that don't fit that. #1 on the list is the HI Nantong, as there are no SPG, Hyatt, Marriott or Hiltons (though they were supposed to build one) there. It's a 4* (they purposely declined a 5* rating as that would have restricted gov't officials from using the property for their parties and other gatherings.) And, I paid an average of US$70 often less, usually getting a suite and free breakfast (which was excellent especially by Chinese standards, your quantity over quality standard,) plus lounge access with guests. In Shanghai, the HI's are not so good, but very much lower price points than the competition to compensate for that. But, my favorite low cost alternative in Shanghai is the HIX Zhabei near the north train station. Usually CNY323 and a decent breakfast as they have an egg and a noodle station, as well as fresh Chinese "pancakes." I usually get a suite and while the rooms look out onto the railroad tracks, there is little noise. Of course, my usual SPG choice was the Sheraton Hongqiao but that's since reflagged. In Nanjing, when I wasn't staying at the IC, the HI Aqua City was convenient and quite nice for about US$70 or less. Even if I had to pay for breakfast, it came in much lower than the Sheraton or the Westin (often, the Westin is less expensive that the Sheraton.) In Beijing, with the GW "gone" from the SPG program, HI's are decent, plentiful and reasonably priced, even if you have to pay for breakfast. Phuket in Thailand, my favorite is Mai Khao beach HIR at about half the price of the SPG, MR, or Hyatt properties, and much nicer (quieter) beach area. I get about 50% off the breakfast, so it still comes in lower. In Bangkok, the HI Silom has a good lounge and they will make you anything you want, fresh and delivered to your table. Convenient to the BTS and a great price point, even paying up to get lounge access, compared to the Royal Orchid, which granted is on the river. Though, walking distances? OK

I could go on, but well you get the point. I agree, the SPG and Hyatt's are in many ways preferable, and offer the full range of benefits, but I always factor the costs of those into my decision..As I said, it depends on what you like.