Hi -
It's fun to hang out at the circle bars of any trade show, talk shop and make new friends, but unless you follow up on any leads to gather, you have wasted your time.
I love the Internext show in Miami, but costs are going out of control. Nobody wants to pay $8.00 for a bottle of water, $45.00 for a Buger & Fries (Room Service), or $80.00 for a pitcher of Pina Coladas. When you bring your content with you to a show, those pictures go fast, believe me.
The small / Medium size shows like Xbiz, Webmaster Access, and especially <a href = "http://www.qwebecexpo.com">Qwebec Expo</a> are the best for us. There's more emphesis on doing business, and events tend to be more targeted. Also, booths, inserts and other promo materials are much less expensive making it easier for the little guys to be noticed.
If you do plan on going to the big shows, it helps to have an agenda. Use sites like <a href = "http://www.adultwhoswho.com">AdultWhosWho.com</a> to find out who else is going and set up meetings in advance. A little structure will pay off.
Finally, sleep! You will need your energy to party at night, and to stay awake the next morning at the seminars.
Happy Tradeshowing!