I have met several online friends over the years. Mostly friends I made on the Bookcrossing site back in the days when we could still afford the postage to share books around the world with each other. I have not yet met any Hive friends in real life, mostly because I don't get out much these days. I can imagine how much fun you have had!
I've always found the food in Europe to be superior to anything we have here. I'm glad you found the good stuff!