chip:

Had also heard before that Holiday Inn Express may be just about the "best among the worst!" They were full when we tried to book them for our Durango trip. So we stayed at the higher-dollar but less convenient Doubletree.

But I'm a bit off the subject here as this thread is about land stays in Europe, not the US. I guess we are some of the few who usually book any pre or post cruise land stays through Radisson. I know, it is usually not the most cost effective way. But, when we were in Rome, it was worth something to us to have Radisson take care of all the luggage "schlepping" and to provide us with transportation to the airport at some ungodly hour, and in a Mercedes E class sedan, chip. We were happy with that situation.

In fact, I've found the most glaring lack of service and convenience when traveling to be right here is the ole USA!

Thanks,
Richard :) :) :)