I was actually a paying member of another forum that was not overland based, but had quite a few overland enthusiasts. But many of the people on the forum were terrible to some of the less knowledgeable members ... and, frequently, it was the moderators who were the worst. It was a real turn-off. I was surfing the Internet one night when I came across Overland Bound. I spent hours poring over the forums. I watched a few videos on YouTube, as well. Within a day, I had ordered my membership emblems. I love the founding principles of OB, all of them, from #1 through #18. Personal favorites are ... actually, I think they are all pretty great.
The past year was a rough one at work. I worked way too many hours and I didn't go camping once. But things have finally started to slow down at work again and I have a few trips planned for this year. My nephew and I are hitting the trails together now, and he is really into overlanding and building out a few overlanding vehicles. I just purchased an OB membership for him. Can't wait to give him his emblems and explain everything to him. He is going to love this community!