WITH ITS SECOND-FLOOR lobby and low-key street-front entry in Seattle’s Belltown neighbourhood, the Ace Hotel doesn’t aspire to be anything more than a budget option in an increasingly pricy downtown core. But even under such egalitarian terms, the broke bohemians who frequent these now-ubiquitous shabby boutique properties demand more than floral bedspreads and 20-inch analog TVs.

The hotel, happily, delivers—shared bathrooms (for the cheaper, $99 units) and all. The white interior, exposed brick and wooden floors make most rooms feel like urban art galleries with beds, while the free continental breakfast served in a light-filled cafeteria further cements the community with fellow guests.

But it’s the Ace’s staff that perhaps seals the deal for wannabe urban insiders. To start up a conversation with anyone working the desk is to get the lowdown on what not to miss all over the Pacific Northwest (The Ace also has a sister property in Portland, Oregon, New York and Palm Springs). Whatever these pierced concierges don’t know, they’ll look up or call around for. Staying in for the night? They’ll hook you up with loaner DVDs, books and magazines.

Rates start at $US99 per night.

theacehotel.com