Britain's InterContinental Hotels, meanwhile, has negotiated licences for two Holiday Inn Express sites in provincial capitals.

ECONOMIST: There is a huge opportunity for budget hotels in China

And at less expensive brands like Holiday Inn Express, Best Western or Fairfield Inn, newspapers are available in lobbies.

BBC: Extra! Extra! Newspaper delivery fading in hotels

Budget conscious travellers should seek out hotel chains such as Best Western, Country Inn, Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn Express that include extras like breakfast, parking and Internet in their nightly rates.

BBC: Deals to be found in May and beyond

My next choice is the Holiday Inn Express.

FORBES: Money Saving Tips for This Summer's Road Trips

In recent weeks, similar announcements have come from the Holiday Inn, Holiday Express and Best Western chains.

ECONOMIST: Hotel internet access