What Is Run Of House Room

Here's a comprehensive article about Run of House rooms, designed to be informative, SEO-friendly, and engaging for a broad audience.

What is Run of House (ROH) Room? A Complete Guide

A Run of House (ROH) room is a type of hotel room booking where the specific room assignment is determined by the hotel upon your arrival, based on availability. In essence, you're guaranteed a room within the hotel, but you don't get to choose its exact location, view, or specific features. This differs from booking a specific room type, such as a "Deluxe Ocean View" or a "King Suite," where you know exactly what you're getting. Understanding ROH bookings is crucial for travelers looking to balance budget considerations with potential compromises on room preferences. This article will delve into the details of Run of House rooms, covering their advantages, disadvantages, who they're best suited for, and how to make the most of this type of booking.

Introduction to Run of House (ROH)

The concept of "Run of House" might seem ambiguous at first glance, but it’s a fairly straightforward practice in the hotel industry. Hotels offer ROH bookings primarily to manage their inventory effectively and fill rooms that might otherwise remain vacant. By allowing guests to book an ROH room, hotels gain flexibility in assigning rooms based on occupancy levels, maintenance schedules, and other operational factors.

For travelers, ROH bookings present a trade-off. You're typically offered a lower rate compared to booking a specific room type. However, in exchange for the cost savings, you relinquish control over the specific characteristics of your room. You might end up with a room near the elevator, on a lower floor, or with a less desirable view. Conversely, you might get lucky and be assigned a room that's even better than you expected!

How Run of House (ROH) Bookings Work

When you book a Run of House room, you're essentially telling the hotel: "I need a room, and I'm flexible about the specifics." Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Booking: You select the "Run of House" option on the hotel's website or through a travel agency. The booking confirmation will typically state "Run of House" or "ROH" as the room type.
2. Arrival: Upon check-in, the front desk staff will assign you a room based on what's available at that moment.
3. Room Assignment: The hotel aims to provide a room that meets the basic requirements (e.g., number of beds, amenities) specified in your booking. However, you won't have any guarantee regarding location, view, or specific features.
4. Flexibility: While you can always request a specific room type or location, the hotel is under no obligation to fulfill your request with an ROH booking. Room changes are subject to availability and the hotel's discretion.

Advantages of Booking a Run of House (ROH) Room

• Lower Price: The primary advantage of ROH bookings is the lower cost. Hotels offer these rooms at discounted rates to ensure maximum occupancy. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
• Potential for Upgrades: While not guaranteed, there's a chance you might be assigned a room that's better than the standard ROH offering. If the hotel has lower occupancy in higher-category rooms, they might upgrade you to fill those rooms.
• Suitable for Short Stays: If you're only staying for a night or two and don't plan to spend much time in your room, the specific features of the room might not be a high priority. ROH bookings can be a practical choice in such cases.
• Flexibility for the Hotel: ROH bookings allow hotels to manage their room inventory efficiently, optimizing occupancy rates and minimizing vacant rooms.

Disadvantages of Booking a Run of House (ROH) Room

• Unpredictable Room Assignment: The biggest drawback is the lack of control over your room's location, view, and features. You might end up with a room that's less desirable than others in the hotel.
• Potential for Noise: ROH rooms are often assigned in less favorable locations, such as near elevators, ice machines, or service areas, which can be noisy.
• Risk of Limited Views: You might be assigned a room with a restricted or undesirable view, such as overlooking a parking lot or a service area.
• Unsuitability for Special Needs: If you have specific accessibility needs or require certain room features, an ROH booking is generally not recommended. You need to book a specific room type to ensure your needs are met.
• Disappointment: If you have high expectations for your hotel experience, the uncertainty of an ROH booking can lead to disappointment if you're assigned a less-than-ideal room.

Who Should Consider a Run of House (ROH) Room?

• Budget Travelers: If your primary concern is saving money and you're willing to compromise on room preferences, an ROH booking can be a great option.
• Short-Term Stays: For overnight stays or trips where you won't be spending much time in your room, the specific features of the room might not be as important.
• Flexible Travelers: If you're not particularly fussy about your room's location or view, and you're open to whatever the hotel assigns you, an ROH booking can work well.
• Solo Travelers: Solo travelers who prioritize cost-effectiveness over specific room amenities might find ROH rooms suitable.

Who Should Avoid a Run of House (ROH) Room?

• Travelers with Specific Needs: If you require a room with specific accessibility features, such as a roll-in shower or grab bars, or if you have other special needs, avoid ROH bookings.
• Families with Young Children: Families often prefer rooms in quieter areas of the hotel, away from elevators and other potential sources of noise. The unpredictability of ROH bookings can make it difficult to secure such a room.
• Travelers Seeking Specific Views or Amenities: If you're dreaming of an ocean-view room or a room with a balcony, an ROH booking is not the way to go.
• Travelers with High Expectations: If you have high expectations for your hotel experience and you're not willing to compromise on room quality, it's best to book a specific room type.
• Light Sleepers: If you're sensitive to noise, the risk of being assigned a room near an elevator or other noisy area makes ROH bookings less suitable.

Tips for Making the Most of a Run of House (ROH) Booking

Even with the inherent uncertainty, there are ways to increase your chances of a satisfactory ROH experience:

1. Book During Off-Peak Seasons: When the hotel is less crowded, there's a higher chance of being assigned a better room or even receiving an upgrade.
2. Arrive Early: Checking in early increases your chances of getting a better room assignment, as the hotel will have more rooms available to choose from.
3. Be Polite and Friendly: A courteous and friendly demeanor can go a long way. Politely inquire about the possibility of a room with a better view or in a quieter location.
4. Mention Special Occasions: If you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion, mentioning it during check-in might prompt the hotel to offer a slightly better room.
5. Join the Hotel's Loyalty Program: Being a member of the hotel's loyalty program can increase your chances of receiving preferential treatment, including room upgrades.
6. Inquire About Upgrade Options: Ask about paid upgrade options upon arrival. Sometimes, upgrading to a specific room type is surprisingly affordable.
7. Manage Expectations: Remember that you booked an ROH room knowing that you wouldn't have control over the specific room assignment. Keeping your expectations realistic can help prevent disappointment.
8. Read Hotel Reviews: Research the hotel ahead of time. Look for reviews that mention experiences with Run of House rooms. This can give you an idea of what to potentially expect and if the hotel generally handles ROH bookings well.
9. Consider the Hotel's Overall Reputation: Opt for hotels known for good service and well-maintained rooms, even for their standard offerings. A hotel with a good reputation is more likely to provide a decent experience even with an ROH booking.
10. Communicate Clearly: If, upon entering the room, you encounter a significant issue (e.g., broken amenities, excessive noise), immediately communicate this to the front desk. The hotel may be more willing to address the issue or offer an alternative if you raise concerns promptly.

Run of House vs. Guaranteed Room Type: A Detailed Comparison

To further clarify the concept, let's compare ROH bookings with guaranteed room type bookings:

Run of House in Different Contexts

While "Run of House" is most commonly associated with hotel rooms, the term can also be used in other contexts within the hospitality and tourism industry:

• Cruises: Some cruise lines offer "Run of Ship" cabins, similar to ROH hotel rooms. Passengers are guaranteed a cabin within a certain category (e.g., inside, ocean view), but the specific cabin number is assigned closer to the sailing date.
• Resorts: Resorts may use ROH for certain room categories, especially during peak seasons when demand is high.
• Tour Packages: Travel agencies sometimes include ROH rooms in package deals to offer lower prices.

Alternatives to Run of House

If you're hesitant about booking an ROH room but still want to save money, consider these alternatives:

• Travel During the Off-Season: Hotel rates are typically lower during the off-season, and you might be able to book a specific room type at a more affordable price.
• Look for Deals and Promotions: Many hotels offer discounts and promotions, such as early booking discounts, package deals, and loyalty program rewards.
• Consider Alternative Accommodations: Explore options like vacation rentals, Airbnb, or budget hotels, which might offer better value for your money.
• Use Comparison Websites: Use online travel agencies and comparison websites to compare prices and find the best deals on hotels.
• Negotiate Directly with the Hotel: Contact the hotel directly and ask if they can offer a lower rate for a specific room type.

Scientific Explanation of Run of House Strategy

From a revenue management perspective, the Run of House strategy is rooted in principles of yield management. Hotels aim to maximize revenue by selling the right room, to the right customer, at the right price, at the right time. ROH bookings contribute to this goal by:

• Increasing Occupancy: ROH rates attract price-sensitive customers, filling rooms that might otherwise remain empty, especially during off-peak periods.
• Optimizing Room Allocation: ROH allows hotels to allocate rooms dynamically based on real-time demand and availability. This flexibility enables them to accommodate various customer preferences and operational needs.
• Price Discrimination: ROH facilitates price discrimination by offering different rates for the same basic product (a hotel room) based on the customer's willingness to pay for specific attributes (location, view).
• Minimizing Spoilage: In the hospitality industry, an unsold room is a perishable asset. ROH helps minimize spoilage by ensuring that as many rooms as possible are occupied each night.

From a customer behavior standpoint, the success of ROH depends on the segment of travelers who are primarily driven by price. These individuals are willing to trade off some level of control and certainty for a lower rate. The perceived value of the discount must outweigh the potential dissatisfaction of being assigned a less desirable room.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Run of House Rooms

• Q: Is a Run of House room always the worst room in the hotel?
  • A: Not necessarily. It simply means you're assigned a room based on availability at check-in. It could be a standard room, and in some cases, even an upgrade.
• Q: Can I request a specific room feature with an ROH booking?
  • A: You can request it, but the hotel is not obligated to fulfill your request. Room assignments are subject to availability.
• Q: What happens if I don't like the ROH room I'm assigned?
  • A: Politely speak to the front desk staff and explain your concerns. They might be able to offer an alternative room, depending on availability.
• Q: Are ROH rooms refundable?
  • A: Refund policies vary. Check the terms and conditions of your booking carefully.
• Q: Is Run of House the same as "Best Available Rate?"
  • A: No. Best Available Rate (BAR) refers to the standard rate for a specific room type, while Run of House refers to a booking where the room type is not guaranteed.
• Q: Can I change my Run of House booking to a specific room type later?
  • A: It depends on the hotel's policies and availability. Contact the hotel directly to inquire about changing your booking. There may be additional fees.
• Q: Is it worth booking a Run of House room?
  • A: It depends on your priorities. If you're on a tight budget and are flexible about room preferences, it can be a good option. If you have specific needs or high expectations, it's best to book a specific room type.

Conclusion

Run of House (ROH) rooms offer a budget-friendly way to travel, but they come with a degree of uncertainty. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of ROH bookings, and by following the tips outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision about whether this type of booking is right for you. Remember to weigh your budget constraints against your preferences for room location, view, and amenities. If flexibility and cost savings are your priorities, a Run of House room might be the perfect choice. If you prefer certainty and have specific needs, it's best to opt for a guaranteed room type. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual travel style and priorities.