Skål Florida Member Retreat

Tell me about The Castle Hotel.

The Castle Hotel, a distinctive boutique hotel which is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, is located at 8602 Universal Boulevard in Orlando, a block from world famous International Drive and ICON Park. Designed with Bavarian-inspired architecture, the hotel features castle-like elements such as turrets and spires, creating a regal atmosphere. The hotel offers 213 elegantly designed rooms and suites equipped with luxurious bedding and marble bathrooms, flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges, and in-room workstations. Several Skål Orlando members are part of the team at The Castle Hotel and the club’s 2025 installation dinner was held in the Gallery ballroom, where several Skål Florida Family Retreat events will take place.

What is the hotel rate?

Skål Orlando has negotiated an outstanding rate of $109+tax for the beautiful Castle Hotel. There is no additional resort fee, and self-parking for overnight guests has been discounted to $25.

What is the cutoff date for this super-discounted rate?

This rate is guaranteed, single or double, until August 28. Reservations made after August 28 will be based on current rates and availability. Don’t wait! Sign up now!

I’m thinking about coming in a day or two early or sticking around after the retreat. Can I still get this rate for extra days?

Yes. The rate is valid for two nights before the event and two nights after the event (September 10 through the evening of September 15).

I’m not spending the night; how much is parking?

There is no charge for parking for day guests.

Are there electric vehicle charging stations on-site?

Yes

What is approximate driving time to the hotel?

Here are the approximate driving times to the Castle Hotel (Orlando, FL) from several major cities. These times assume typical traffic and highway routes — actual time may vary based on time of day and road conditions.

What is this retreat about?

Quite simply, we all know that Skål is about members doing business with members; and in a word, we’re adding a weekend of “camaraderie” to the equation! It’s all about spending time with old friends, and good friends who you will make. There is a short session on Saturday with a couple brief presentations and group discussions on industry best practices and common issues, but the main focus of the organizing committee is to provide a cost-efficient and relaxed environment for Florida clubs, and welcomed guests from clubs everywhere, to share in the bonding and familial experience that is uniquely Skål. Think of this as your Skål family reunion that hopefully you will look forward to for many years to come!

What is the dress code?

Casual and comfortable! No bling, no protocol. One of Skål’s great traditions is it’s history, structure and protocol, which significantly define our legacy. But this weekend, it’s all about being in the moment with friends and peers. No bling, no protocol. Just enjoy!

What are the menu options for Friday and Saturday dinner?

You will select from the choices on your registration page.

Can I bring a spouse, family or possible future Skalleague?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that there is no ability to discount for multiple guests because the committee has priced the registration pretty much at cost in order to make the event as affordable as possible.

When does registration close?

Technically registration is open until the start of the event. However, please keep in mind that we need to provide F&B guarantees 72 hours in advance, and so we may not be able to accommodate walk-ins for all events. With that in mind, it would be safe to register no later than September 8 so that you can be a part of all the events of the weekend.

What does my registration include?

Registration includes a drink at the Skål Florida Family Retreat Kickoff Cocktail Hour, your seat at the Skål Tables of Friendship Group Dinner, and a drink and light post-dinner appetizers at Brother Jimmy’s BBQ on Friday. It also includes the Morning Group Retreat, Skål Buffet & Bonds Poolside Lunch and Games, Sleuth’s Mystery Dinner Show (with unlimited beer/wine/soda) and a ride on the StarFlyer for those who are adventurous on Saturday. A T-shirt commemorating the weekend is also part of your registration package.

What are these Skålympics? Do I need to start training and drinking raw egg shakes like Rocky?

Our inaugural Skålympics are a series of events going on throughout the weekend that will challenge your mental and game skills. Your collective group and individual scores will be averaged into a Florida club score (including the out-of-town guests, the Skål Florida Cousins) for the bragging rights of holding the top spot in the inaugural games! You’ll get more details when you check in on-site, but sharpen your deductive skills and practice your cornhole tossing!

What if I have another question not addressed here?

Reach out to Rich at rbradley@BuenaVistaEvents.com.