This is quite hard to address. In some ways, I agree with DC and SC that nothing can beat an old-fashioned "sit down". To be with the person you are friends with, give them a hug, hear their laugh, that is true.

However, I also feel that in some ways, this virtual place allows you to get to know someone more intimately. Given the anonymity of the internet, it is far easier to bare your soul and exchange the truth. In person, that's not always easy to do.