Holiday Inn Express, 1040 N California Street, is El Defensor Chieftain Readers’ Choice for best lodging around.

Simple modern rooms come with minifridges, microwaves, work desks, cable TV and free WiFi; suites add pull-out sofas. The 77 air-conditioned rooms feature refrigerators and microwaves. Conveniences include desks and complimentary newspapers, as well as phones with free local calls. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk.

Guests can enjoy recreational amenities such as an indoor pool and a fitness center and a complimentary buffet breakfast.

Trip Advisor reviewers give it a strong four-star rating and point out that the accommodations were clean, extremely cozy, comfortable and spacious, as well as beautifully designed, with extra perks like free breakfast, free wifi, free access to a 24-hour workout gym/room, lots of free parking, a free conference room and a nice dining area.

It also offers a convenience ‘store’ area where emergency/forgotten items are sold, and also a small selection of microwavable items for use in one’s room. Amenities include an indoor pool with a whirlpool, a covered BBQ area, an exercise room, a business center, and a meeting space.

575-838-4600

John Larson, El Defensor Chieftain