I agree with MikeL. My instructor lives 75 miles away from me. Granted he is my friend and we make a day of it when we go flying. With his help I am actually learning.

I have joined a club much closer to home now, but the learning is mostly with my instructor. He has never flown off of the water and we are both going to learn that this summer.

Do yourself a favor, take the drive, meet some RC pilots, have a good time and learn safely. You will even save a few bucks in less damaged airplanes and millions in frustration.

This senario has worked for me.

Just my 2 cents worth.
AL