Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date, which is the cumulative amount paid and (if applicable) the fair value of any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree, adjusted for any amortization recognized prior to the adoption of any changes in generally accepted accounting principles (as applicable) and for any impairment charges, in excess of the fair value of net assets acquired in one or more business combination transactions.

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+ Details

Goodwill, Franchise Rights and Other Intangibles Goodwill (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Mar. 31, 2010
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	$ 66,005	$ 66,041
Minority Interest
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	60,620	60,620
Suburban Transaction
Goodwill [Line Items]
Goodwill	5,193	5,193
Choice Hospitality India LTD
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Interest Acquired			60.00%
Goodwill	$ 192	$ 228
Suburban Transaction [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Interest Acquired	100.00%
Choice Hospitality India LTD [Member]
Goodwill [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Percentage of Interest Acquired	60.00%