I've had two.
you learn a whole bunch about the person-its fun-you hurt a whole bunch about not being able to be with, near them-you break up for some stupid reason...like really really stupid.
I dont think id recommend it for someone though, just like in most relationships, you get hurt in the end, but you've got the two pains mixed in, the loss of the person and the pain that you never got to hold them close and such.
sorry if i sound corny.
carry on