Even with meeting folks, "band stuff" would be minor to me (no need to make stress) compared to actually meeting someone, talking, and interacting. We are a community (as dysfunctional as we get at times), but sadly one that doesn't "meet up." Simple face-to-face interaction is golden.
I admit I struggle and fight against "loss of community," so this is a pet peeve of mine (probably #1 on my list). We have trained ourselves that "the internet is social life" and "staring at a cell phone is better than saying hello to the stranger sitting next to you." I fight this every chance I get, and amazingly the first reaction of people is they SMILE... what a nice gift. Priceless. I may never see them again for the rest of my life, but the one time I did was meaningful.
We all interact here, but sort of stay in our "own little self-made world," so the opportunity to build/strengthen relationships that will last for years to come is not one I would pass up on.
I apologize for beating a dead horse here, but the social opportunity is huge... plus when traveling, there is no better tour guide than someone local.