I’ve been trying to take a Smaart class with Jamie Anderson for over 2 years and my schedule has never allow for doing so without passing up work. This time I’ve done something dangerous and assumed that I will have the first week of June off.
Consequently, the class fee and airline ticket are paid for and rental car is reserved. If work comes up in the meantime I’ll have to do something I have a hard time doing and simply say I’m not available.
Smaart 8 training – Vancouver Washington 2016
Here is a break down of costs involved so far.
Rational Acoustics – 3 day Smaart training – $750
American Airlines roundtrip airfare between Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) & Portland (PDX)- $255.20
Dollar Rental Car – $224.03
Total investment at this point is $1229.13 before gas, food and incidentals.
When I pick up the rental car, I’ll gladly pay extra for the damage waiver the rental car company offers which will add another $150 or so to the cost. Peace of mind is worth it. I recently asked my car insurance company about rental car coverage. It is true in my case that any rental car is covered for damage up to $25,000 but if there is a claim, it will affect my premium. Also whatever amount of time the rental car may not be available to the rental car company is my responsibility without a damage waiver. The fee is called “LOSS OF USE”. Based on my research so far, nothing covers it (credit card / car insurance / etc…) besides the damage waiver the rental car company offers.
Regarding a place to stay during the trip, fortunately I’ve got friends and family to stay with during my trip.