It was my first STC Conference, and my first visit to Las Vegas. I was not sure what to expect. I had heard many stories, but nothing quite prepared for me for its scale and drama. How would you describe it - Awesome?.

The STC Conference was held between two conference centres set in two adjoining hotels, namely the Bally and the Paris. I was staying at the Bally Hotel and the facilities were good. In addition, it was a central base for all the conference events which meant I did not have to travel too far or get up too early. On registration, the delegates were greeted with a substantial amount of documentation to help them decide which workshop to attend. I decided to collect this upon arrival, on hindsight this was not my best choice. Some prior reading would have been beneficial. The documentation was vast and once you had arrived the time for reading was limited. I was not alone though. Each morning I saw delegates avidly scanning their schedules trying to plan their day.

The sessions were grouped between Management, Professional Development/STC-Related Sessions, Theory, Research, Education, and Training, Tools and Technology and Usability, Information Design, and Writing and Editing. It was impossible to see everything which felt slightly frustrating. If you go I would certainly recommend attending the Introduction session which explained what was available, how you could identify who was doing what, and how you could find your way around. Without this session I would have been hopelessly lost. I had decided upon my preferences in advance, but there were some last minute changes which proved a bit tricky.

What you attend is of course individual, but I tried to capture a bit of everything. I was not disappointed, and I can honestly say that all the sessions I attended were interesting, hugely supported, and interactive. As well as the sessions there were the trade stalls, a book area, an employment stand, and even a massage area if you found the conference too stressful. The internet area was extremely popular with delegates logging in to find out the local news or establish contact with their working colleagues. It didn't finish there though. The Special Interest Groups have a very high profile at the STC Conference and hosted a couple of evening events. In addition, the network luncheons were well worth attending.

Although the schedule is very busy, it was possible to get some time to yourself. Each evening the Bally had 'live' groups in their cocktail bar. One particular group was extremely popular, and when they were playing all the seats were taken well in advance. Of course, Vegas would not be Vegas without the gambling. This is going on around you all the time, with people playing roulette, blackjack, poker or dice. If that does not appeal you can attend a show, sightsee, sun bathe, or go shopping. If none of these pursuits appeal you could always visit the Eiffel Tower or the Pyramids.

So is Vegas I gamble? Yes, but one worth making. An excellent contrast between a professional atmosphere and light hearted fun. So what was my favourite, I enjoyed too many sessions that could fit that label, However, I did enjoy the final speaker Anita Salem. For me, it summed up how our everyday skills can make the difference. All we need to do is believe and remember.