Run Of House (ROH) Hotel Room: What Does It Mean?

by Jhon Lennon 50 views

Ever stumbled upon the term "Run of House" (ROH) when booking a hotel and scratched your head wondering what it means? Don't worry, you're not alone! It's a pretty common term in the hotel industry, but it can be a little confusing if you're not familiar with it. Let's break down everything you need to know about Run of House hotel rooms, so you can book your next stay with confidence.

Decoding "Run of House": What It Really Means

So, what exactly does "Run of House" mean? Simply put, when you book a run of house room, you're essentially telling the hotel, "Surprise me!" You're not specifying a particular room type, view, floor, or even specific amenities. Instead, you're letting the hotel decide which available room they'll assign to you at check-in. Think of it as a lucky dip – you might get a standard room, a slightly larger room, a room with a decent view, or even a room that's a bit of a trek from the elevator. The hotel has the discretion to allocate any of its available rooms to you within the general category you've booked (e.g., a standard room category).

Now, you might be thinking, "Why would anyone book a run of house room?" Well, the biggest draw is usually the price. Run of house rooms are typically offered at a lower rate than specific room types. This can be a great option if you're on a budget and not too picky about the details of your room. For example, if you're primarily planning to use the room as a place to sleep while you explore a new city, the specifics might not matter as much. It’s all about weighing the cost savings against the uncertainty of not knowing exactly what you're going to get. Another scenario where run of house might be appealing is if you're booking last minute and the hotel has limited availability. In those cases, it might be the only option available within your budget. Ultimately, booking a run of house hotel room is a gamble, but one that can pay off if you're flexible and looking to save some money. Just remember to manage your expectations and be prepared for a bit of a surprise when you check in!

The Pros and Cons of Booking a Run of House Room

Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. Booking a run of house room can be a bit of a mixed bag, so it's important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before you commit. Here's a breakdown to help you decide if it's the right choice for you:

The Perks: Why You Might Love ROH

  • Budget-Friendly: This is the big one. Run of house rooms are almost always cheaper than booking a specific room type. If you're pinching pennies, this can be a lifesaver. Think of all the extra spending money you'll have for exploring, dining, or snagging souvenirs!
  • Potential Upgrade: While it's not guaranteed, there's always a chance you'll get lucky and be assigned a better room than you paid for. Maybe they'll give you a room with a slightly better view, a corner room with more space, or even a room on a higher floor. It's a bit of a gamble, but the potential reward can be sweet.
  • Flexibility: If you're not fussy about the specifics, run of house can be a great option. If you're easygoing and happy with whatever the hotel offers, you might as well save some money and let them do their thing.
  • Last-Minute Savior: When hotels are close to fully booked, run of house rooms might be the only option left in your price range. It's better than nothing, right?

The Drawbacks: What to Watch Out For

  • Unpredictability: This is the flip side of flexibility. You have no control over the room you'll get. You might end up with a room near the elevator, overlooking the parking lot, or on a low floor. If you have specific preferences, run of house is probably not for you.
  • Potential for Disappointment: If you're expecting a room with a view or specific amenities, you might be disappointed. It's important to manage your expectations and be prepared for the possibility of a less-than-ideal room.
  • Not Ideal for Special Occasions: If you're celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or other special event, you probably want to book a specific room type to ensure you get the experience you're hoping for. Run of house is too risky for these situations.
  • Accessibility Concerns: If you have mobility issues, booking a run of house room can be risky. You might end up with a room that's far from the elevator or not easily accessible. It's always best to contact the hotel directly to discuss your needs and ensure they can accommodate you.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Book a Run of House Room?

Okay, so now you know the pros and cons, but how do you decide if a run of house hotel room is right for you? Here’s a little guide to help you figure it out:

Book it if:

  • You're on a tight budget and the savings are significant.
  • You're not picky about room features like the view, floor, or proximity to amenities.
  • You're a solo traveler or a couple who primarily needs a place to sleep.
  • You're booking last-minute and it's the only affordable option.
  • You're feeling adventurous and don't mind a little surprise.

Skip it if:

  • You have specific room preferences (e.g., high floor, ocean view, near the elevator).
  • You're traveling for a special occasion and want a guaranteed experience.
  • You have accessibility needs that require a specific room type or location.
  • You're easily disappointed or stressed by uncertainty.
  • The price difference between run of house and a specific room type is minimal.

Tips for Booking a Run of House Room

Even if you decide to go for a run of house room, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting a room you'll be happy with. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Book during off-peak seasons: When the hotel is less busy, they're more likely to have better rooms available and might be more willing to accommodate requests.
  • Join the hotel's loyalty program: Loyalty members often get preferential treatment, which could translate to a slightly better run of house assignment.
  • Call the hotel in advance: Explain your situation and politely request a room that meets your basic needs (e.g., away from the elevator if you're a light sleeper). Be friendly and understanding – the front desk staff are more likely to help if you're nice to them.
  • Check in early: The earlier you check in, the more likely the hotel will have a wider selection of rooms available.
  • Be polite at check-in: A little bit of kindness can go a long way. If you're friendly and courteous, the front desk agent might be more inclined to give you a better room.
  • Don't be afraid to ask (politely): Once you see the room, if you're not happy with it, politely explain your concerns and ask if there are any other options available. Remember to be reasonable and understanding – they might not be able to move you, but it's worth a shot.

Run of House vs. Other Room Types: Knowing the Difference

To really understand run of house, it helps to know how it compares to other common hotel room categories. Here's a quick rundown:

  • Specific Room Type (e.g., Deluxe Room, Suite): With these, you know exactly what you're getting in terms of size, amenities, and layout. You'll pay more, but you have more control.
  • Room with a View (e.g., Ocean View, City View): These rooms guarantee a specific type of view, which often comes at a premium. Run of house offers no such guarantee.
  • Connecting Rooms: Ideal for families or groups, connecting rooms have a door between them. Run of house won't guarantee connecting rooms.
  • Accessible Rooms: Designed for guests with disabilities, these rooms have specific features like grab bars and wider doorways. If you need an accessible room, never book run of house.

In Conclusion: Is Run of House Right for You?

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about run of house hotel rooms. Hopefully, this has cleared up any confusion and helped you decide if it's the right option for your next trip. Remember, it all comes down to your priorities and how much you value certainty versus savings. If you're flexible, budget-conscious, and don't mind a little bit of a gamble, then run of house might be a great way to save some money on your next hotel stay. But if you have specific needs or preferences, it's probably best to book a specific room type to avoid any potential disappointment. Happy travels, guys!