When booking a hotel room, travelers often encounter a variety of terms and phrases that can be confusing, especially for those who are new to the world of hospitality. One such term is “run of house,” which can leave potential guests wondering what it means and how it affects their stay. In this article, we will delve into the concept of “run of house” and explore its implications for hotel reservations.
Understanding the Concept of Run of House
The term “run of house” refers to a type of hotel room allocation where the hotel assigns a room to a guest based on availability, without guaranteeing a specific room type or location. This means that the guest may be assigned any available room in the hotel, regardless of its size, location, or amenities. The main idea behind run of house is to allow hotels to manage their room inventory more efficiently, by filling any available rooms without having to worry about specific room assignments.
How Run of House Works
When a guest books a room under the “run of house” category, they are essentially booking a room at a discounted rate, without knowing the exact room details until check-in. The hotel will assign a room based on its availability, taking into account factors such as room type, location, and amenities. The goal is to ensure that the hotel can fill all its available rooms, while also providing guests with a comfortable and convenient stay.
Benefits for Hotels
The “run of house” concept offers several benefits for hotels, including:
The ability to manage room inventory more efficiently, by filling any available rooms without having to worry about specific room assignments.
The opportunity to offer discounted rates to guests, which can help to attract more bookings and increase revenue.
The flexibility to asign rooms based on guest preferences, such as proximity to amenities or room amenities.
Implications for Guests
While the “run of house” concept can be beneficial for hotels, it may also have implications for guests. Some of the key considerations include:
Room Assignment Uncertainty
One of the main implications of “run of house” is that guests may not know the exact room details until check-in. This can be a concern for travelers who have specific preferences, such as a room with a view or a room located near the elevator. Guests who book under the “run of house” category should be prepared for any room assignment, and should not expect a specific room type or location.
Potential for Upgrade or Downgrade
Another implication of “run of house” is that guests may be assigned a room that is either an upgrade or a downgrade from what they expected. For example, a guest who books a standard room may be assigned a suite, or vice versa. Guests should be aware that room assignments can vary, and should not assume that they will receive a specific room type or amenities.
Strategies for Guests
While the “run of house” concept can be unpredictable, there are several strategies that guests can use to minimize uncertainty and ensure a comfortable stay. One approach is to contact the hotel directly to request a specific room type or location. Guests can also check the hotel’s website for information on room types and amenities, and can read reviews from other travelers to get a sense of what to expect.
Tips for a Smooth Check-in
To ensure a smooth check-in, guests can take several steps, including:
Arriving early to increase the chances of getting a preferred room assignment.
Being flexible and open-minded about room assignments.
Asking the front desk staff about available room options and amenities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the “run of house” concept is a common practice in the hotel industry, where hotels assign rooms to guests based on availability, without guaranteeing a specific room type or location. While this concept can be beneficial for hotels, it may also have implications for guests, including room assignment uncertainty and the potential for upgrade or downgrade. By understanding the concept of “run of house” and using strategies such as contacting the hotel directly and being flexible, guests can minimize uncertainty and ensure a comfortable stay. Ultimately, the key to a successful “run of house” experience is to be aware of the potential implications and to plan accordingly.
| Hotel | Run of House Policy |
|---|---|
| Hotel A | Guests who book under the “run of house” category may be assigned any available room, including rooms with a view or rooms located near the elevator. |
| Hotel B | Guests who book under the “run of house” category will be assigned a room based on availability, but may be eligible for an upgrade or downgrade depending on room availability. |
By considering the “run of house” policies of different hotels, guests can make informed decisions about their bookings and ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world of hospitality, understanding the concept of “run of house” is essential for navigating the complex world of hotel reservations. With the right knowledge and strategies, guests can unlock the full potential of their hotel stay and enjoy a memorable experience.
What does “Run of House” mean in hotel reservations?
The term “Run of House” (ROH) refers to a type of hotel room allocation where the hotel reserves the right to assign a room to a guest from its available inventory, without guaranteeing a specific room type or location. This means that when a guest books a room under the ROH category, they are essentially booking a room at the hotel, but the exact room details, such as the room number, floor, or view, are not specified. The hotel’s front desk staff will assign a room to the guest upon check-in, based on the hotel’s occupancy and availability at that time.
The ROH allocation is often used by hotels to manage their room inventory and maximize occupancy. By not guaranteeing a specific room type, hotels can allocate rooms more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of empty rooms and minimizing losses due to unsold inventory. For guests, booking a ROH room can be a cost-effective option, as it is often priced lower than booking a specific room type. However, it’s essential for guests to understand that they may not get their preferred room location or type, and they should be prepared for any room assignment when they arrive at the hotel.
How is “Run of House” different from booking a specific room type?
When booking a specific room type, such as a deluxe room or a suite, guests can expect to be assigned to that exact room category, unless the hotel has a valid reason to upgrade or downgrade them. In contrast, a ROH booking does not guarantee a specific room type, and the hotel can assign any available room that meets the basic requirements of the booking, such as the number of occupants or bed type. This means that guests who book a ROH room may be assigned a room that is different from what they expected, and they should be flexible with their expectations.
Although booking a specific room type provides more certainty and control over the room assignment, it often comes at a higher price. On the other hand, ROH bookings can offer significant cost savings, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. However, guests who book a ROH room should be aware of the potential risks and uncertainties involved, such as being assigned a room with a less desirable location or amenities. It’s crucial for guests to weigh the pros and cons and consider their priorities before making a booking decision.
Can I request a specific room type or location when booking a “Run of House” room?
While booking a ROH room does not guarantee a specific room type or location, guests can still submit requests to the hotel, such as preferring a room with a king-size bed, a high floor, or a view. However, it’s essential to note that these requests are subject to availability and are not guaranteed. Hotels will do their best to accommodate guest requests, but they may not always be able to fulfill them, especially during peak occupancy periods.
To increase the chances of getting their preferred room, guests can try contacting the hotel directly after making their booking, to submit their requests and provide additional information about their preferences. Some hotels may also offer the option to pay for room upgrades or specific amenities, which can provide more control over the room assignment. However, guests should be aware that these upgrades may not be available or may incur additional costs, and they should clarify the details with the hotel before making any decisions.
What are the benefits of booking a “Run of House” room?
One of the primary benefits of booking a ROH room is the potential cost savings. Since hotels do not guarantee a specific room type or location, they can offer lower rates to guests who are flexible with their room assignment. This can be a significant advantage for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize affordability over specific room amenities or locations. Additionally, booking a ROH room can provide an opportunity to stay at a higher-end hotel or a popular property that may be outside of one’s budget if booking a specific room type.
Another benefit of ROH bookings is that they can provide an element of surprise and excitement, as guests may be assigned to a room that exceeds their expectations. Some hotels may also use ROH bookings as an opportunity to upgrade guests to a higher room category, especially during off-peak periods or when they have excess inventory. While these upgrades are not guaranteed, they can be a pleasant surprise for guests who book ROH rooms. Overall, booking a ROH room can be a great option for travelers who are flexible and open to new experiences.
Are there any risks or downsides to booking a “Run of House” room?
One of the main risks of booking a ROH room is the uncertainty surrounding the room assignment. Guests may be assigned a room that does not meet their expectations, such as a room with a less desirable location, a smaller bed, or limited amenities. This can be disappointing, especially if guests have specific needs or preferences. Additionally, hotels may not always be able to accommodate guest requests, such as preferring a room with a king-size bed or a high floor.
To mitigate these risks, it’s essential for guests to carefully review the hotel’s policies and procedures before making a booking. Guests should also be aware of the hotel’s room categories and amenities, to have a better understanding of what to expect. Furthermore, guests can try contacting the hotel directly to submit their requests and preferences, although they should be prepared for the possibility that these may not be fulfilled. By being informed and flexible, guests can minimize the potential downsides of booking a ROH room and have a more enjoyable stay.
Can I cancel or modify my “Run of House” booking if I’m not satisfied with the room assignment?
The ability to cancel or modify a ROH booking depends on the hotel’s cancellation and modification policies. Some hotels may have more flexible policies, allowing guests to cancel or modify their bookings without penalty, while others may have stricter policies, with significant fees or penalties for changes or cancellations. Guests should carefully review the hotel’s policies before making a booking, to understand their options and potential liabilities.
If a guest is not satisfied with their room assignment, they can try contacting the hotel’s front desk or customer service team to request a room change or modification. However, the hotel may not always be able to accommodate these requests, especially during peak occupancy periods. In some cases, guests may need to pay for room upgrades or modifications, or they may need to accept the assigned room. To avoid any potential issues, guests should be aware of the hotel’s policies and procedures, and they should be prepared to be flexible with their expectations when booking a ROH room.
How can I make the most of my “Run of House” booking and minimize potential issues?
To make the most of a ROH booking, guests should be flexible and open-minded about their room assignment. They should also be aware of the hotel’s room categories, amenities, and services, to have a better understanding of what to expect. Additionally, guests can try contacting the hotel directly to submit their requests and preferences, although they should be prepared for the possibility that these may not be fulfilled. By being informed and flexible, guests can minimize potential issues and have a more enjoyable stay.
To further minimize potential issues, guests can also consider booking directly with the hotel, rather than through a third-party booking platform. This can provide more opportunities for guests to communicate with the hotel and submit their requests, and it can also help to avoid any potential misunderstandings or miscommunications. Furthermore, guests can consider booking a ROH room during off-peak periods, when hotels may be more likely to upgrade guests or provide additional amenities. By taking these steps, guests can make the most of their ROH booking and have a more enjoyable and satisfying stay.