Long distance reltionships that will be sustained and from which either or both parties will expect anythig real and better aren't as economical as one myt assume. A treat on a date every once in a while and occasional gifts are a lot cheaper than buying call cards to communicate with the person on a regular basis, talk less of sending to them while Ur buying for them.

U can't really know the person until U've met either. In  a way I think hand written letters are more effective than using the electronic media.

Excitement levels however are more easily held up and sustained over longer periods in a stretch in long distance relationships even tho trust is more brittle in one.
Lots of merits and demerits. Can't pour out all art once.