The label "Vdara" evokes images of tattered curtains and rundown efficiency kitchens. These properties put a sophisticated spin on long-term lodging, offering suites akin to luxury pied-à-terres, with all the hotel amenities.

Located in Las Vegas's stunning new CityCenter, the Vdara has 1,495 suites, each with a bedroom, living room, and kitchen. The hotel has private meeting rooms, a business center, and a boardroom. A resort fee of $15 a day covers extras such as Wi-Fi and bottled water. COST: $149 and up a night

This newly renovated landmark on Manhattan's Upper East Side has 30 elegant suites, each with a bedroom, living room, and kitchenette. The property has a business center and two private dining rooms operated by the four-star Café Boulud. Wi-Fi costs $14.95 a day. COST: $1,100 and up a night

This chain has eight hotels in cities such as Philadelphia and Arlington, Virginia. Each has modern suites with a bedroom, living room, and kitchen, along with a business center, free Wi-Fi, and a Zipcar account. COST: $195 and up a night

A good pick for eco-conscious travelers, the Element has hotels in Lexington, Massachusetts, Houston, and five other cities. Each property has minimalist-chic suites of various sizes, a business center, and free Wi-Fi. COST: $125 and up a night