A number of factors lately seem to have contributed to increasing the friction between different nationalities and cultures of residents within Second Life.

Firstly, of course, we have the ... robust nature of some of the political extrusions into Second Life - largely harmless and inconsequential wars between small numbers of ideological groups - though no less deadly serious to the participants.

There aren't many details yet, but one thing is clear - the rate hike is coming. Back in November of 2006, when the new fee for islands rose to $295 USD, Zee Linden stated that the prices would be grandfathered in through at least 2007. Given that 2008 is rapidly approaching, you would think that island owners would receive warning of the impending doom.

After a town hall meeting with Zee, LL committed to giving residents a minimum of 60 days notice before they change pricing plans on them. This contradicts other reports that the inflation will occur in November. All signs point to some time after the 1st of the new year. It would be nice to receive clarification from them, though!

Zee Linden, Linden Lab's CFO, will be conducting a voice town hall on VAT issues for European residents. The Town Hall is to take place on Monday 8 October at 11AM SLT (US Pacific) at the usual place (the big stage in Pooley).

If you don't have voice available, you will need a voice-enabled friend to handle asking questions and transcribing answers for you.

Zee Linden has attached the VAT FAQ and answers a number of additional questions in his posting. Zee adds, "If you have more questions, I encourage you to download the VAT FAQ, refer to our knowledgebase, send me a message in-world, or come to the discussion Monday (again, please come prepared with voice enabled so you can hear, as I'll be answering chat questions by voice to be most efficient with the time.)"