Supplemental Information to Statements of Cash Flows (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011
Summary of Supplemental Information to Statements of Cash Flows
Interest paid	$ 2,906	$ 1,936
Income taxes paid	232	62
Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities:
Issuance of common shares for board of trustees compensation	199	183
Mortgage loan assumed in connection with acquisition	0	42,000
Accrued additions and improvements to hotel properties	2,493	0
Common Shares [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Distributions payable on shares/units	6,393	4,898
Preferred Shares [Member]
Dividends Payable [Line Items]
Distributions payable on shares/units	$ 3,813	$ 547