My first Do was in London in Feb '03 (which has now become a tradition). I had just started reading FT in ernest the month before, was going to be in London anyway, and decided to attend the dinner being organized by wingnut. I remember being nervous (some FTers would be surprised to know I'm a bit shy when in new situations, even though I don't come across that way!), even dressing up a bit to make a good impression, got to the restaurant, and said I'm here to meet...and the hostess said, "oh you're w/ that group of people that doesn't know each other" And my love of FT and friendships w/ FTers (both virtual & in person) began that night.

Since then I've attended small and large dos, organized a few, and attended a lot of meals & get-togethers. Until recently when I lived in LA, I got to see lots of FTers as LAX is a good mileage run location. No one does mileage runs to where I live now I've stayed w/ FTers, they've stayed at my place. I've given advice, gotten advice, and have developed a lot of friends along the way. Some I've met in person; some I hope to at some point, even though we're friends now.

As mentioned, the # & type of attendees varies - from young to old, male & female, married, single, in relationships, gay/straight, with kids, without, gamut of professions, interests, and personalities.

If timing allows, go & enjoy. Plus, IIRC there are some Norwegian FTers. You might want to see if they're organizing anything local, and 'start out small'.

Cheers.