I long have been known as a book slut yet, sadly, no one ever has come on to me therefore.

if true this is awesome. For those who watch Arrested Delelopment it immediately me think of the slut shirt Lindsay wore.

^^

While I’m assuming you’re being a bit tongue-in-cheek, there are so many places to see in the world where there just are not any luxury properties ... and to miss out on them because “only” an average Hilton - or worse! (gasps) - is the best on offer saddens me.

I know the forum I’m on, and truly love a great luxury property; but I also know I’d have missed out on so many incredible experiences (even just within the US) by limiting myself to a luxury property locations.

I was actually speaking quite literally, but I should clarify that I do travel to lots of places without luxury hotels, and will stay at at all kinds of hotels that I consider interesting. Holiday Inn is my least favorite IHG brand. I suppose I might stay if it were the best option somewhere, but I haven’t ever had that happen. There are a few Hiltons and Conrads that are quite nice, but I certainly will choose other options if something nicer is available.

I actually love Crowne Plaza Vientiane in Laos. It is an outlier in the brand, and is a solid four star hotel. It is managed by a great GM, and as a regular, it certainly does feel quite luxurious the way I am taken care of. They have fantastic Lao spa treatments in their new spa that is developing very nicely. They have continually improving F&B and great wine selections, which is a huge accomplishment in a city that is is less developed than others in the Southeast Asian region. Most of all, the young team of highly energetic local staff are simply lovely. They are proud to work for an hotel that is part of a major international hotel group, and rise to every challenge. I’ve been there regularly since the opening, so I actually can attest to the constant improvement.

I would rather eat my own head than stay at the majority of Crowne Plaza hotels. But this one I totally love. I would feel the same way about any special property from other brands, even if not high-end. But those exceptions are few and far between.

I choose where I go based upon hotels that I want to visit and not the other way around. the hotel for me is up to 75% of the travel experience

This is partially true for us at 70 and 75, with assorted knee and hip issues limiting mobility. We can get about a bit but not a lot so hotel quality, services and graciousness matters a great deal. Obviously setting is important.