ITCZ - have heard that same exact conversation myself. Typical
cjam - try and take a good mate up with you or organise to meet a mate that can put you up for a while. Nothing worse than knowing noone.
The best thing you can do is get a regular job that will pay the bills and in between shifts pop in for a hand shake down at the airport. Keep it short and sweet.
Good luck mate - it'll happen - don't stress.