[punkass]

I would setup a telephone conversation with them. Explain to them all the preparations you have done. It sucks that you won a seat to the main event, but due to their irresponsible money management, you are now out a seat at the main event, but additional money for hotel/flight/etc.

I would ask for these expenses to be reimbursed. It sounds like you spent roughly 1500 in flight/hotel, which is very reasonable. I would ask for them to give me 1500 up front, then do their idiotic 5% monthly repayment plan.

5% is a joke. You are not a bank.