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 September 6th. Reservations made after September 6th 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 16 through the evening of September 22).

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!

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, pending space available. However, the early bird discounted rates of $259 for the whole weekend’s activities ends on Friday, September 11. Full Price registrations after that date and walk-ins will be accepted as available. Day rates, Saturday Dinner-only rates and full registrations made after September 11 DO NOT include the complimentary SeaWorld ticket.

What does my full weekend registration include?

Full weekend registration includes a drink at the Skål Florida Weekend Retreat Kickoff Cocktail Hour and your seat at the Skål Tables of Friendship Group Dinner. It also includes the Morning Group Retreat, Skål Buffet & Bonds Poolside Lunch and Games, Saturday night’s networking dinner and entertainment, your first drink at I-Drive Star Bar, and rides on the Orlando StarFlyer or Orlando SlingShot for those who are adventurous on Saturday. A shirt commemorating the weekend is also part of your registration package, and all full registrants for the weekend who register prior on or prior to Friday, September 11 receive a complimentary ticket to SeaWorld for Sunday, September 20, a $150 value!

When will I make my dinner selections?

The dinner selection for Friday night will be made during the checkout process. Saturday night will be served buffet style with a spread of options.

What does my day pass registration include?

Each day pass includes all the activities for that day, plus a shirt commemorating the weekend. Day and Saturday Dinner only passes are not eligible for extras, like the Sunday SeaWorld ticket.

Can I get just a ticket for a single event during the Skål Florida Member Retreat?

All Skål members must purchase a full weekend event registration or a full day pass for either Friday or Saturday. Once the Skål member has registered for the weekend or for a day, a non-member à la carte guest pass for certain events may be purchased, which includes the Friday dinner at the Castle (dinner only, dinner + reception), the Saturday lunch at the Castle and the Saturday dinner at Brother Jimmy’s. Non-member guest passes only include the food and beverage for that particular event, and do not include a shirt or any other activities.

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

Our 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, and come prepared to take on last year’s inaugural champion, Skål Orlando!

What if I have another question not addressed here?

Reach out to Rich at rbradley@BuenaVistaEvents.com.