Leonidas,
I have only attended the 2004 convention at the Tropicana. On a scale of 1-10 I would rate it 9. The only reason I wouldn't rate it 10 was due to it being held at one of the older Casino/Hotals.

We arrived the day before and left the day after. I would recommend a seven day trip if your schedule permits and you haven't been to Vegas in 5 or more years. There are simply to many places to go in addition to the convention. Trying to fit it all in in 4-5 days will leave you in a state of shock.

The convention floor is loaded with everything and more you would wish for. The trading sessions were plentiful and fruitful. I came back with nearly 100 chips for my collection. The quest speakers were informative and well prepared. The socializing with other chippers was very beneficial and I certainly didn't observe any "cliques" as some would have you believe.

Be sure to plan on seeing the canopy show in old Vegas at night, the water snow at the Bellagio at night and if you play the slots, the Rio and Palms have the highest payout that I know of. The Rio also has a free show that is suspended from the ceiling that is noteworthy. My personal favorite remains Caesars Palace from my first trip to Vegas in 1985. It is not as easy to find the great bargains for meals as it was, but what they lack in low price, they make up for in quality and quanity. Expect to pay $25+ for a good buffet and quite a bit more if your dining out.

Again my only regret is not making it a longer trip. Hope this is what you wanted.