Jeepy, like you I get a lot of compliments from strangers and just people in general. It started immediately after I stopped straightening it (that was many years ago). I love it when the comment is from a fellow curly because I ...
1. Get a chance to compliment them back (So many gorgeous curl patterns out there!).
2. Can offer advice when they ask for it.
I'm also very grateful for compliments from straight-haired and wavy types too of course. Someone actually took time out of his/her day to say such nice things
I try and pay the compliments forward by randomly complimenting other curlies.