If there is one in close proximity to where I need to be, RI is always my first choice. As one who spends way to many nights in a hotel, the RI 1BR or 2BR suites feel so much more civilized than the "jail cell " box type room of a Fairfield, Courtyard, or even a FS Marriott.

It's also fun to cook every now and then.

I agree that there are good RI's and not so good ones too. Jacksonville, FL (Airport), Williamsburg, VA, and Columbus, OH (North) are my favorites.

I really like the free breakfast and the Happy Hour. At some of the better locations, the Happy Hour food is all I need for my dinner on some nights and keeps me from having to go out somewhere.

All of this is nice for a guy like me. I receive a fixed per diem amount for meals. So I'd rather pay more for the room and have breakfast included. It always bothered me that Courtyard and Marriott F/S charge me for breakfast.