Just came accross this thread. Makes me wonder what is going on in the US. In the hotel market specifically. Haven't been there for more than a decade and have no desire to return. I used to visit frequently.

I don't know why Hilton should be a ashamed of Sparks by Hilton Vienna Donaustadt? Vienna/Austria. Check it out on booking com has more pics. People give it a 9. Nearby there's another Sparks with excellent reviews.
A friend had asked me for advice on accommodation in a specific area. That's how I stumbled on it. Didn't know the brand even existed. Lovely property. Great Front Desk, watched them interacting with the guests. I waited for my friend in the lovely and calm lobby. Browsed the books in the library. Some were more than 100 years old, delightful selection. I was asked if I wanted anything to drink while waiting, coffee? I was served a double espresso on the house....
Fantastic location - shopping mall accross the road and the subway at the doorstep which takes you to the city center in 10 minutes.
I have stayed in HGIs and Hamptons in Europe and Asia that would put a lot of Hiltons in the US to shame..... Luckily there is more to the planet than the US, which has great sights, no doubt. So do other countries.