Legal Definitions - hospitator

Hospitator

In legal contexts, a hospitator refers to an individual or entity that provides hospitality, lodging, or entertainment to others. Historically, this term was particularly relevant in common law to describe those who offered public accommodations, such as innkeepers, and carried specific legal duties and liabilities related to the care and safety of their guests.

Here are some examples illustrating the concept of a hospitator:

• A Boutique Hotel Owner: Imagine a person who owns and manages a small, upscale hotel. This individual acts as a hospitator because they provide lodging, meals, and various services to their guests, essentially hosting them during their stay. They are responsible for the comfort and safety of those they accommodate.

• A Cruise Ship Operator: A company that operates a large cruise ship, offering cabins, dining, entertainment, and excursions to thousands of passengers, functions as a hospitator. They are hosting their guests for the duration of the voyage, providing a comprehensive experience that includes both accommodation and entertainment.

• An Event Venue Manager: Consider the manager of a convention center or a large event hall that regularly hosts trade shows, concerts, and corporate gatherings. In this role, the manager and the venue itself act as a hospitator by providing the space, facilities, and often ancillary services (like catering or technical support) for the attendees and participants of these events.