Need to book three rooms this summer for my family near the convention center. The two cheapest places nearby are the Magnolia and the AC. Am I correct in thinking the Magnolia is the way to go? Is is the cheapest of the options; the AC is slightly more, and over three rooms x three nights, that adds up. Other properties are expensive enough that I'm not considering them. I am platinum; I will probably take the breakfast benefit and give it to my brother and his fiancé, or just take the points.

We've been told to expect a block of rooms to be available for our event at the Hyatt Regency, but being platinum with Marriott (and not being a fan of HR beds -- cannot sleep in them) I've told my family I can cancel their rooms but I personally will be staying at a Marriott brand.

I would consider paying slightly more for a lounge at a nearby property, but it would need to be a heck of a lounge.

-J.