You're welcome -- oddly enough, I'll be working in YOUR fair city for 2 days in April. For the first time ever, I won't be at a chain - I'm trying the Handlery on Union Square. A visit to the chowhound.com website has be interested in trying the "French Quarter" restaurants on Belden alley - got to get away from sushi for every meal and try something different!

I noticed you asked for hotel suggestions. Of the major chains, our clients prefer the Marriott Convention Ctr, the Westin or the Sofitel, none of which are cheap. Anything with "Rittenhouse Square" in the name is nice, if pricey, and it's a long (but do-able) walk to the tourist area (although the Rittenhouse Square area is lovely and historic and has lots of cool restaurants). On the other hand, check maps if the hotel says "Society Hill" or "Historic District" -- that could mean Columbus Blvd, which is something of a hike to most places you want to go. If you're between 6th and 13th, you're close to most places tourists want to see.

If you're on a budget, I've had friends rave about the Alexander Inn, which has REALLY TINY rooms (NY-sized) rooms (some rooms are so small that the TV hangs from the ceiling), but is very clean, comfortable, chic, cheap and centrally located. When she first arrived here to work, a friend lived at what is now the Travellodge Philadelphia in Chinatown for a few weeks, and she loved the location. Check the tripadvisor reviews.

Enjoy!