Skål International Tampa Bay held its March meeting at the historic 'Don Cesar' hotel.

The hotel is located on the pristine sugar-white sand of Trip Advisors #1 Beach in America, St. Pete Beach.

The Don Cesar dubbed the Legendary Pink Palace is a destination gem and focal point as you drive over the bridge onto the beach. The Don Cesar, established in 1928 and designated the only historic resort of Florida’s Gulf Coast, has recently undergone a full property renovation of all guestrooms and signature outlets, including the Don Lobby Bar and fine dining restaurant Maritana. Its beautiful sunsets and imprint on Tourism made for the perfect backdrop to host Skål International Tampa Bay.

The evening kicked off in the newly refreshed Lobby Bar, the history of this space and of Skål International friendships rippled throughout the start of the evening. Members then retreated down the sweeping spiral staircase to enjoy a beach-side sunset champagne toast. Barry White, of Beach 2 Bay Ads and member of the chapter donated his services with a boat driving by just as the sun was setting with a banner display “Happiness, Good health, Friendship, Long life, Skål!” it set the tone for an evening to remember as members toasted in gratitude being able to meet in person safely during the pandemic.

The event then shifted to the newly renovated Maritana to enjoy a dinner of decadence. Starting off with a muse of Smoked Salmon Deviled Quailed Egg and Blood Orange Emulsion that melted in your mouth, followed by a Carrot Bisque and stone Crab salad with a presentation as equally as impressive as the course itself. The main course featured a Ginger Braised Short Rib, which made for a perfect centerpiece as we welcomed new members to the chapter. The evening ended on a high note of Wild Blueberry Mouse and Bay Leaf Ice Cream. This hotel has survived more than 90 years of change and was a perfect setting to encompass the heart of Skål International and rejoice in the rebound of Tourism to this area.