just noticed this post went on to an 2nd page. Peter PanPan, and Garfs - thanks for your feedback, as well.
The more i research, the more it seems like spending a few years in the Gulf of Mexico will likely be the next step - but as I stated, I'm going to give it a try going international first as this is where I truly want to be - and if nothing pans out, I'll head south.
I'll keep you all posted~