I got a lot more out of this conference than the usual ones I attend at meetings. I mean more inexpensive, than the usual conference. There are many more particpants than in the usual conference. While the discussion may not be more profound, it is certainly more in depth and more extended and gives the particpants more time to reflect on it. The author of a paper generally plays a less central role in the discussion.
Discussion is more interesting and informative.
There was more time for in-depth analysis and discussion of a topic. It was allot of hard work and it really let me sharpen my skills. The extended time period allowed for much more reflection than is true in the usual short meeting. Just as good, but different. Both have their place, but you can't beat this one for the price.