A nerd's paradise!!!
This was my first year at CES and will be the beginning of many more. I was blown away by how well organized the event is for being so large. The city, surrounding businesses and convention center have thought of everything. Undoubtedly, because of the sheer number of attendees, there will be some lines and waiting but it's not nearly as bad as some of the other conventions I've attended in other cities.
My first bit of advice is to make your hotel reservations as early as possible. It is nearly impossible to get a room during this week if you wait too long and if you do, chances are that it will cost over $500 a night. It's also imperative that you register for the convention before the prices change. This is not an event that is easy to attend last minute unless you have big bucks. Definitely check the CES website for details well in advance.
The convention itself is really spectacular. This is the place to go to get a sneak peak of the newest gizmos and gadgets. It also provides a great opportunity for networking within the industry. Although the event is closed to the public, they do set aside one day where students can attend. If you have a student ID and any interest in electronics this is a fantastic opportunity to get in.
Another tip is to wear your most comfortable shoes. There is no way you can see everything at this show but if you plan on trying, be prepared to be on your feet all day. It also helps to plan out your days in advance so you can hit the programs, speakers and booths that are most important first.
Lastly, for all the females...this is the best time to be in Vegas if you want to meet dudes. You will be vastly outnumbered and able to take your pick!