Yes, it is pretty bad out there. I generally try to stay at Hampton inns as local calls are free. This past week I stayed at a Embassy Suite who charged 75c per local call. I called the operator first to make sure it was unlimited for 75c. If it had not, I would have called back every hour and then never stayed their again.
I have become very picky about this and now do not stay at many hotels over the phone rates.