Once you pass the sewer training area....
(you can not return so::Use the guides::There are badges you can earn in the sewer area for killing 25 of each of the peelungers and the little green things. I forgot their name and unless you read the guide or are talking to someone you may miss those two badges)
I posted a guide thread in our clans's forum.
After leaving the sewer area and moving into the town.
When you sign off you should be able to pick your server the next time you sign on.
On the server screen you are able to see the servers and your friends listed. There are many ways to view this server screen. I haven't gone over this a lot yet but It looks like when it is up and running well you be able to just go where your friends are.
Also there is a *clan* talk area in the talking window... as well as a *crew* and *local* and *all* talk windows they are tabs in the talking window.
I believe there is a way to summons people to you in game but I am not far enough along to know how or if I am correct on this point. (Crosses fingers)
Oh ok, I do remember seeing this. I left off in the south part of town...I'll have to go on again soon.