Reimbursement for the initial trip is pretty much the standard over here. Maybe they'll give way a bit; I don't know. Some people take the ticket and never show up. All I can say is what you posted sounded legit. When I first came over here I thought I was stepping into one of Dr. Hawking's black holes. I understand your concern, but you won't get as far if you don't take some calculated risks. It's up to you ...