I too left HostGator just last month, after a very lengthy 11-year run with them.
They are merely a shell of what they once were - the uptime is nowhere close, and as you've experienced, the support has gone from some of the best, to virtually non-existent.
After searching for months (I started looking for a new host in July when I had a server down for about 24 full hours with zero response from HG, and naturally, no refund) I finally decided on Web Hosting Buzz (webhostingbuzz.com).
I chose them for a number of reasons already stated in this thread:
- 24/7 support (and any time I've contacted them via phone or IM, the person on the other end was easy to understand - huge bonus!)
- They're "Green" - or at least carbon-neutral (which in turn means I can say my business is also "green")
- They're independently owned (so says their Wiki ... nothing like blind, user-edited faith!)
- They offered the services I needed (probably the #1 reason - see below)
I have over 400 domains and live websites in my portfolio (I "park" all of my own domains, foregoing a "parking service" - more time, sure, but WAY more money in my pocket) so the migration wasn't easy, nor was it pretty - but we made it. And the support team there kicked some Kim K sized rear end when called upon.
I am in no way affiliated with them, and truth be told, as I've already said, I've only been there a little over a month. But I wouldn't have any issue recommending them to my personal friends & family. Let's hope they stay independent, and keep the bar set high.
Good luck in your search, and let us know what you decide!