Run Of The House Room Meaning

Run of the House Room Meaning: Unveiling the Mystery Behind This Hotel Term

The term "run of the house" (ROH) in the hotel industry often sparks curiosity. What exactly does it mean? Is it a good deal? What are the potential downsides? This comprehensive guide delves into the meaning of a run of the house room, exploring its implications for both hotels and guests, and helping you make informed decisions when booking your next stay.

Understanding the Run of the House Room Concept

A run of the house room refers to a hotel room assigned at the time of check-in. Unlike reserving a specific room type or location in advance, with an ROH booking, you're essentially accepting whatever room the hotel has available at the moment. This means you won't know the exact room type, view, or location until you arrive.

The Hotel's Perspective

For hotels, ROH bookings offer several advantages:

• Improved Occupancy: They maximize occupancy rates, especially during peak seasons or when cancellations create last-minute vacancies. By offering ROH rates, hotels can fill rooms that might otherwise remain empty.
• Revenue Management: ROH rates are often lower than pre-assigned room rates, attracting price-sensitive guests and potentially increasing overall revenue. Hotels can dynamically adjust ROH rates based on demand and availability.
• Flexibility: ROH bookings provide the hotel with greater flexibility in managing room assignments, allowing them to optimize room allocation based on guest preferences and operational needs.

The Guest's Perspective

From a guest's perspective, an ROH booking can be a gamble, but it also presents opportunities:

• Potential Savings: ROH rates are typically lower than standard room rates, offering significant savings, particularly for budget-conscious travelers.
• Surprise and Delight: Some guests enjoy the element of surprise and the potential to receive an upgrade to a better room than anticipated.
• Last-Minute Bookings: ROH is frequently the only option for last-minute bookings, making it a viable solution when other options are unavailable.

Factors Influencing Run of the House Room Assignments

While the assignment is unpredictable, several factors influence the type of room a guest receives:

• Hotel Occupancy: The higher the occupancy rate, the less likely you are to receive an upgrade. Conversely, low occupancy may result in a better room assignment than expected.
• Room Type Availability: The hotel will assign the first available room matching the guest's minimum requirements (e.g., a double bed for two guests).
• Guest Loyalty Status: Frequent guests or those with higher loyalty status may receive preferential treatment and a better room assignment.
• Special Requests: While ROH bookings don't guarantee specific requests, politely mentioning preferences (e.g., high floor, quiet room) might increase your chances of a favorable assignment.
• Hotel Policies: Specific hotel policies regarding ROH assignments may vary. Some hotels prioritize certain guest types or may have specific rooms set aside for ROH bookings.

Potential Downsides of Choosing a Run of the House Room

While the potential for savings is enticing, there are several potential downsides to consider before opting for an ROH room:

• Uncertain Room Quality: You might receive a smaller room, a room with a less desirable view, or a room located in a less convenient area of the hotel (e.g., near noisy areas or far from amenities).
• Lack of Control: You have no control over the specific amenities or features of the room. You may end up in a room without a particular feature you may desire, such as a balcony or bathtub.
• Potential for Disappointment: The element of surprise may not always be positive. You could receive a room that falls significantly short of your expectations, leading to disappointment.
• No Guarantees: There's no guarantee of receiving a room upgrade, despite the possibility. This contrasts sharply with booking a specific room type where the room's features and location are known.

When is a Run of the House Room a Good Choice?

A run of the house room is a good option under specific circumstances:

• Budget Travel: If you're traveling on a tight budget and prioritizing affordability, an ROH booking can offer significant savings.
• Flexible Travel Plans: If you're flexible with your accommodation and not overly concerned about the specific room type or location, the uncertainty of an ROH booking might not bother you.
• Last-Minute Bookings: When booking at the last minute, an ROH room often represents your only option for accommodation.
• Exploring New Destinations: If your primary focus is exploring a new location, the quality of the hotel room might be secondary, making an ROH booking an acceptable compromise.

When to Avoid a Run of the House Room

There are situations where an ROH booking might not be the ideal choice:

• Special Occasions: For special occasions like anniversaries or honeymoons, where a memorable experience is desired, the uncertainty of an ROH room might be risky.
• Accessibility Needs: Guests with mobility issues or specific accessibility requirements should avoid ROH bookings to ensure the assigned room meets their needs.
• Large Groups: For larger groups traveling together, securing rooms in close proximity might be challenging with ROH bookings.
• Specific Needs: If you have specific requirements regarding room type, amenities, or location, an ROH booking may not fulfill these needs.

Strategies for Mitigating the Risks of a Run of the House Room

Even when choosing an ROH, there are steps you can take to mitigate potential risks:

• Contact the Hotel: Contact the hotel directly to inquire about typical room sizes and amenities offered in ROH bookings. This provides some insight into what you might expect.
• Read Reviews: Review hotel reviews online to gauge the overall quality and consistency of rooms at the property.
• Book in Advance (if possible): Even last minute, making a booking ahead of time may increase the chances of a better room assignment versus a walk-in with very limited availability.
• Be Polite and Flexible: A friendly and flexible approach when checking in can sometimes result in a more favorable room assignment.

Comparing Run of the House Rooms to Other Booking Options

Understanding the differences between ROH and other booking options is crucial for making informed decisions:

• Pre-booked Specific Room: Provides complete control over room type, location, and amenities, but often comes at a higher price.
• Upgrades at Check-in: Offers the possibility of upgrading at check-in, but the availability and cost of upgrades are uncertain.
• Package Deals: May include an ROH room as part of a larger package deal, potentially offering better value.

Run of the House Room FAQs

Q: Can I request a specific room type with a run of the house booking?

A: While you can make a request, it's not guaranteed. The hotel will assign the first available room.

Q: Can I cancel a run of the house booking?

A: Cancellation policies for ROH bookings vary by hotel. Check the hotel's cancellation policy before booking.

Q: What if I'm dissatisfied with the assigned run of the house room?

A: Speak to the hotel staff to express your concerns. Depending on availability and hotel policies, they may be able to offer an alternative room.

Conclusion: Weighing the Pros and Cons

The decision of whether or not to book a run of the house room is a personal one. It hinges on prioritizing cost savings versus the predictability and control offered by pre-booked specific rooms. By understanding the implications of ROH bookings and employing strategies to mitigate potential risks, you can make an informed choice that best suits your travel style and budget. Remember to always carefully review hotel policies and customer reviews before making your reservation, ensuring a pleasant and stress-free stay, regardless of the room type.