VeeamOn 2022

A few weeks back I received some exciting news – I had been given the opportunity to attend this years VeeamOn conference in Las Vegas as a VIP guest!

Over the years I’ve heard great things about VeeamOn and although I was able to attend the past 2 events virtually due to the global pandemic, I’ve always wanted to attend in person. With the COVID restrictions around the world finally starting to ease, this would be the first in person event Veeam have hosted for quite some time.

Now back in NZ, I thought I’d share some of the highlights from the event.

Sessions

The sessions really are the main point behind attending the conference so I made sure I went to as many as possible, including the opening and closing keynotes which were not to be missed. The big talking point was the upcoming release of VBR v12. Being a heavy user of the product myself, most of the sessions I attended were focused around the new v12 feature set. It was great to get an exclusive early insight into what is coming up and I look forward to putting this into practice soon.

I also really enjoyed tech town – a large open area ballroom where many of the affiliated vendors were on hand to demo their latest product sets and answer any questions I had.

Venue

One thing I noticed throughout the event was that feeling that no expense was spared. Staying at the Aria truly was a 5 star experience. Having my room in the same building as the conference was a big plus and saved me having to go out in what was 38c heat (thank goodness for air conditioning!).

In terms of location you couldn’t ask for better with the resort right in the heart of the strip. There is so much to see and do and as I arrived a day early, I had some time before the conference to get out and explore the area.

Hosting

Like many others, I was travelling to the conference alone and I wasn’t sure what to expect in terms of interaction with others. Veeam had this covered though, organising networking events for attendees from the ANZ region. I was also lucky enough to be invited along to several other events and a dinner function which were hosted by Veeam. I can’t speak highly enough how well looked after I was by Veeam during the trip.

Party!

It can’t be all work and no play right? The conference was capped off with what many coin the ‘legendary’ VeeamOn party. I had to find out for myself and with expectations high, I have to say it did not disappoint! Although not hosted at the Aria, the venue at Drai’s was top draw. With food a plenty, an open bar and Coolio and Nelly performing, what more could you really ask for?

A big thanks to Veeam for giving me such an amazing opportunity. This really was a trip of a lifetime and one I’ll never forget.