Yeah, I wasn't Catholic or anything of the sort and I went with no complaints. It wasn't like it was forced upon me, I just understood it was tradition.
Fact.
And yes they do, much lulz came from my seat partner in 2006 as she went from "I love being able to crash on you during the long rides between shows!" to "You might need to sleep with an eye open."
I'm in the exact same boat, man. Had someone message me on here a few days ago about a spot. I just need to get the money together, but I'm doing it.
Keep me updated. :]