Most ecstasy users are professionals such as real estate brokers, nurses, doctors, lawyers, and business entrepreneurs. Their motive for using ecstasy is to experience a relatively quick and certain open and relaxed time in the context of a stressful and highly regulated lifestyle. Ecstasy trips are typically well-planned, usually 2 to 3 months in advance, and involve 2 or 3 days -- 1 day to prepare, 1 day for the "trip," and a third day to prepare to resume a busy schedule. Trips are usually in private with friends and spouses. The "trip" experience is described as a physical relaxation, bonding with those around you, a spiritual experience, and oneness with nature. During the "trip" users may listen to music, talk with friends, become intimate with another person, party, or do some physical activity. After the trip, there is rarely a "crash," and users perceive that the benefits far outweigh the costs, which few could identify. This drug use pattern differs from the stereotypical view of illegal drug use and drug users and suggests the need for more diverse descriptions of drug use and its effects. 5 footnotes.