Pearson New International Edition International pcl tp indd 1

FRONT OFFICE SEMANTICS
Group (type of guest):
Large number of guests sharing a common characteristic who are staying at a
property at the same time. Groups may receive special rates, amenities, and privileges because of the
increased revenue that they generate. Also called 
tour group.
Transient (guest):
Guest who is not part of a group. Transient guests can be subdivided by traveler
demographics to gain more detailed information about the type of guests staying at a property.
Many group travelers enjoy the convenience and generally lower costs offered by
limited-service hotels. Tour bus operators find that many clients want to eat in well-
known, popular, local restaurants when traveling and do not want to pay the price
required to stay at a full-service hotel. These travelers also want to visit local attrac-
tions rather than spend time in elaborate hotel facilities. For groups such as these,
limited-service hotels offer great value.
Other groups that routinely prefer limited-service hotels include visiting sports
teams, religious and fraternal organizations, and social groups. Another important
source of business for many limited-service properties arises from large groups stay-
ing in full-service convention hotels. A nearby limited-service hotel may be asked to
house the groups’ overflow and would likely find it advantageous to do so.