The Semi-functional Starter Guide.

OK, so people have asked me, "What do I do if I want to get started in Second Life?" Assuming you haven't yet been in the game at all the first thing you should do is click the link to the right or above and join. Now, if you are willing to be a nomad, which 80% of the people do, then that's it. But the real fun in my opinion starts when you spring for the 'premium' membership and get a piece of virtual real estate all for yourself. That really lets you build and enjoy the toys that you can't use so much if you continue the hobo existance. Currently 512sm parcels are running around 6-8000L. Which under current exchange rates is around 20-30 US dollars. You pay $10 dollars a month for the premium membership. And you can probably earn that money in Second Life itself, so really you're not looking at much of an expense. If you compare it to other Massive Multiplayer Online experiences it's a deal.

How do I earn money in Second Life you ask? Well, if you have your first land I recommend buying a nice house or castle, such as Anya's Keep, or something else (From my designs of course!). After that a good way to earn money in Second Life is by selling the stuff you like. Most people in secondlife will pay commission through catalogs or affliates. If you want to sell my items I offer a catalog that pays 10% commission. To make $10.00 US in a month you have to basically earn 3000L. That isn't difficult under many jobs in SL.

I realize that I built this post in reference to my business, and I'd be pleased if you decided it was worth a shot, but truly, premium membership has its benefits. Give it a try, can always cancel if you dislike it.