I have friends that met up with people online (but via a social site not forums)
they even dated for a bit.
But I'm not saying it's a good idea to just meet up with people.
We all exchanged emails etc first and had webcam convos (though those can be faked, its easy to tell if they aren't reacting the way they should etc)
and had lots of precautions.
there are only 2 people I met on this site I'd be comfortable meeting up with, and that's because we talked lots off the forum and got to know each other etc (and I've now known them both for like 6+ years o.o ) But I don't have the kind of money to travel xD and NZ is very far away.
Anyway, if people are wanting to meet up, be safe about it, NEVER GO ALONE, make sure they bring a friend too, and though you may not like it, if you're a girl, take a MALE friend, preferably one that at least looks intimidating, so if it turns out to be a lie, you've got someone to help protect you etc, guys should bring friends too though!
damn my flat mate distracted me, lost train of though. Hope that makes sense =/