I swim at noon and it is extremely rare to have to share a lane. I don't think I would like it, but I bet it is a good way to meet people.

tribogota, I saw in another thread you are in the bay area. Did you decide not to swim while on vacation or are there no pools by you? What about taking your bike on Bart to a pool. I know the Concord/Cowell pool is easy biking from the Bart station. My high school boyfriend (28 years ago) was a life guard at the Albany pool but I looked it up and it is closed for remodeling. Walnut Creek has pools too but I know any of the names.

How about the Cal Berkeley pool? You could swim with Natalie Coughlin.