I've stayed in many Kimptons over the years ... be aware there is a range in the quality of the properties, especially in cities where they have quite a hotels (SF and DC especially) ... Monaco hotels are generally very good - I especially like the ones in SEA and Chicago, and the Alexis in Seattle is nice. I also find that the Pacific Pallisades in Vancouver is a really good valaue property with very large and comfortable rooms - even if from the outside it looks like a pretty dumpy 60's apartment building. The Muse in NYC and the and the Nine-Zero in Boston are outstanding. Great location for shopping also. Generally, even the worst Kimpton will be better than the best budget chain hotel. You're also almost always going to get a good meal at a Kimpton restaurant ... they're consistently a notch above standard hotel fare. I also think Kimpton offers free wine tastings every evening at most - if not all - properties. It's generally a good chain offering better value than others at its price point. You're right, on the whole, they do get it.