Thanks Professor! Just what I was going to say 
In addition…
STUPID and ih82lose:
Can someone explain (without any marketing pitches) what exactly is one to expect from CAC in general?
You can expect a lot of things at this event. The most important of which, this year, is having the opportunity to dissect and thoroughly discuss the impeding problems that this industry faces following the US law passed last fall. In addition, you have a chance to sit down face to face with the affiliate programs you work with to discuss any issues and answer any questions that you or they may have. This also gives you a great opportunity to really get to know your affiliate manager, which can never be a bad thing. Most exhibitors/affiliate programs also have an exhibitor seminar series where you can learn everything about a current program you work with or get to know one you may have thought about working with in the future. There is also the chance to meet new prospective programs and to meet and network with other affiliates, and top industry professionals which brings me to my next point.
Also I was looking trough the speakers and the agenda (95% of which is still to be announced), and I really did not see any names in the marketing business which I have ever heard of.
The times of the presentations have not been finalized but will be this week so be sure to check back soon. However, the majority of speakers have already been confirmed. To see this list please go to:
http://www.casinoaffiliateconvention.com/speakers-amsterdam-2007.php
More speakers will be added in the coming weeks. The CAC has always been proud to give the industry the very best of the best in all fields whether it be payments, software, SEO. We only choose the brightest in their fields to come and present and we have always received positive feedback on this.
Anyone cares to justufy the on-average $3-4,000 expense associated with this trip?
I can assure you that your expenses for this trip will not be anywhere near $3000. I don’t know where you are but Amsterdam is a major international airport and carriers like Continental fly there for as little as $500 from Newark, NJ. An affiliate can attend for free so your pass is not an expense. Which leaves the hotel.
P.S. I know the hotel is close to the Red Light District , but I dont think most affiliates will be able to afford a room that close to the palace.
The Krasnapolsky is a bit expensive but there are hundreds of less expensive hotels where you can stay and all are relatively close to the venue.
The Netherlands uses the Euro which is only about 15% over the US dollar so anything you buy is relative to the dollar.
Keep in mind that the event is 3 days. We provide breakfast and lunch and alcohol and food is provided at the parties.
So I would guestimate a total cost for the entire trip at around $1200-$1500 and that’s pushing it.
I have been wondering the same thing as stupid. I have never been to an industry event. Is it worth it? I have a family, and explaining why I have to go to Amsterdam will be a chore to say the least…On the other hand, I have been very concerned with the industy as of late. A chance to discus these isues in person with people in the know sounds good. But then again, is anyone really in the know these days?
While Amsterdam isn’t exactly a family destination there are many things to do outside the city like day trips to see the tulips and festivals. The city itself has an amazing history and staying out of the Red Light is quite easy. It’s only one small part of the city. So I suggest maybe bringing your family along?
In regards to your question, “is it worth it?” I think that you may have answered that yourself with expressing your concern with the issues we are all facing within the industry. Like I said to Stupid above, we take pride in our speakers, in their knowledge and in their dedication in what they do. You asked if anyone is really in the know and the answer is YES. One person can’t know everything but all our presenters know a lot about one thing…maybe everything there is to know. I am sure that you would get many answers to many unanswered questions . There is also the chance to meet and network with fellow affiliates.
I hope that I answered all of your questions. Please don’t hesitate to contact me should you have anymore questions or concerns.
Best regards,
Marketa
Director of Marketing
Casino Affiliate Convention
http://www.CAC2007.com
MSN IM: [email protected]
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