In the current climate, taking 2 days out for a conference at an 'attractive location' is being perceived internally as unnecessary and unjustifiable both in terms of time and expense. In the past I have found the presentations at the large legal shows to be of limited value and like others, find that the informal discussions with colleagues to be far more useful. To that end I now prefer to go to events similar to those put on by the Legal Support Network since 1) They are local and require only the minimum of travel to get there 2) they are typically held in the evening so there is a minimum impact on the working day 3) the whole event is spent in discussions with colleagues 4) vendors are available to chat to but its low key All in all this format has been a refreshing change and I look forward to other peole adopting this format.