I've been wondering about this. I want to go during the sale this year - but don't know anyone that's actually been.
Have you yourself been previously? I'd like to know if the prices ARE actually reasonable?
As far as experimenting - I would make note of the average conditions you are able to provide for your orchids and go from there. There is no use wasting money on an orchid that you won't be able to see thrive in your environment!