Not really. I don't see how all these SEM/SEO experts can go to all these conferences - especially when the 'Internet' obviates the need to actually go!
Reading about the sessions on seoroundtable, InsideGoogle and SEW is better than going. It's like watching an NFL game on TiVO! And you can get some actual work done that day.
PS. Why do all these SES attendees get all worked up about Barry Diller? Who cares? Since when did ask.com ever send you a customer or make you a dime? I get more hits from www.google.pl than I ever do from ask.com...