I'm in agreement with those who are pushing the "meet first in a public place" position. Why not simply play it safe? I sometimes use an online dating service and never meet any of the women anywhere else. If they suggested meeting in a private or secluded spot, I would insist that for their own peace of mind that we choose a restaurant or a coffee house for the first meeting. I'd also suggest that they follow that advice for any others that they would meet.
I have a tendency to believe that CDs sometimes can be more at risk from meeting in this fashion, than GGs, simply because of the hatred for us that exists in the world. Gay men can also tend to fall into this danger zone. Let's not become targets.
The bottom line is: Why risk it? Play it safe.....and take it slow. Read the other person's body language, and THINK like a woman! When we take on women's clothes, and try to emulate them in every way we can.....using our brains the way they would in such situations, sometimes escapes us because we're men.
I wish the OP the best, and sincerely hope it goes as she envisioned.
