There are many reasons I prefer the chat room to a pub. The drinks are cheaper, you don't have to drive anywhere, it's not smokey and loud, the music's better, etc etc. Also, as Beethoven said, a lot of us know each other personally. And when your friends live miles away you may as well use the chat room to keep in touch as make a phone call. It's more useful when there's a group of you who know each other - you can pass on news and catch up with all at the same time.