I suppose I am lucky in one respect, I never wanted to become a Professional Poker Player, Sure I enjoyed playing and even enjoyed the travelling to different Tournaments, but I have never left the UK. for a game. The idea of living out of a suitcase catching flights to different Countries to chase a dream, has never appealed to me.
I am happy being an Amateur Player, and treating Poker as nothing more than a Hobby, as long as my Hobby is self financing and it is not taking money away from my Family, Then they are also happy.
All my travelling expenses like Trains, Taxis, and Hotel bills have all been covered by previous Wins from the game, otherwise I just wouldn't play.