Well what do you guys recommend?

These are some rules I have followed in the past that I found on some dating site and thought where good:

1. Don't give out your last name
2. Always meet in a neutral public place
3. Don't give your address
4. Dont' accept transport home, even if you are nuts about the guy. Go home and think it over. If it's going to be a good thing, it'll develop as you get to know each other

I dont think there is any specific timing that is correct for meeting someone from the net. I usually go by how comfortable I feel with that person. Dont rush too fast if its a first meeting, but I am sure in no time at all, you will know when it is the right time
Hope that makes sense, plus... I like to talk on the phone before I meet, just so u can get a better feel for them.