Another important "rule" in the LQ program is that you must redeem points within two years of earning them. I've been caught twice and lost points, this is really frustrating.

That being said, and if you can track when you earned points so that you redeem them before they "expire," the properties are quite good in nearly all locations. I especially like their bargain-for-Manhattan NYC property on 32nd St. Several of the properties (Flagstaff, Austin Airport, and Ontario come to mind) are real high-quality values.

I only once had a negative experience at a La Quinta, in Santa Fe. The breakfast area was clogged with people and I asked the "attendant" where I could find a place to sit. She gave me a dirty look and pointed at the floor! When I checked out and complained about this rude/creepy behavior, the front desk clerk comped the stay.