Right in downtown Vancouver, near I-5, there is an Econolodge (601 Broadway, 360/693-3668, $70 s or $80 d) with standard motel rooms with fridges and microwaves. Whirlpool-bath rooms are also available.

For the touch of home that only a B&B can offer, try the Briar Rose Inn (314 W. 11th St., 360/694-5710, $75 d), a lovely 1908 Craftsman in the center of downtown. The four rooms, two of which have private baths, have wireless Internet and the unbeatable “Grandma’s house” feel of antique sumptuousness.

There are two Shilo Inn locations in the metropolitan Vancouver area. Pass up the one downtown on East 13th; it is ho-hum at best. Instead, visit Shilo Inn & Suites Salmon Creek (13206 N.E. Hwy. 99, 360/573-0511, www.shiloinns.com, $79–89 s or d) in Hazel Dell. It may not look special from the outside, but walk through the door and you’ll see it is a class above most chains. The interiors are brand new and immaculate at this well-tended hotel. The property has a pool, spa, and sauna. Beds are comfortable and rooms have fridges and microwaves. There’s also free Wi-Fi, continental breakfasts, and cookies during the day.