I started looking at VO a couple of days ago. I have been through the basic training missions, done a few courier missions, and been out popping bots. I have found the community friendly though i don't think i have seen another player in game.

Having used around half of the 8 hours trial what would people suggest as things i really should look at trying before the trial is up and i decide whether to continue?

Thanks for your time.

Well, I'd suggest doing combat and trade missions to get your levels up. However, if your wanting to meet other people, Sedina B8 will get you dead fast. Don't know what your levels are, or your nation, but if your Itani or Serco, and have combat 3 or 4 or whatever it requires, I recommend doing some Border Patrol (group mission that gives mega license points) or Border Skirmish. Or just give a shout out and make some friends on 100 and meet up.

See the race tubes in Sedina B-5 to F-5

Watch capital ships duke it out on the Geira Rutilus / Deneb border.

If you have mining license 2 or above go to Verasi I-5 and try the Xithricite missions (/shameless plug) see if you make it to the Hydra

Follow a collector around until it leads you back to its queen, then gather a queen hunting party. The badge (10 kills) grants access to a kick-ass L-port energy weapon.

if you state it beforehand that you are going to Sedina b8 to observe the PvP, you should be all right. You might even want to try a fight

Make sure that if you decide you wanna fight, to home at a station nearby, otherwise you'll be kicking yourself when you get killed and end up back where you took off from.

On a side note. I do wish that the npc's would randomly exchange pleasantries with you.

Announcing your intent to head to B8 is a good way to get your ass shot off.

I regularly exchange pleasantries with NPCs. And by exchange pleasantries I mean exchange weapons fire.