I was taking home about 2700 a month putting 15% in the 401k first. Per diem runs pretty steady around 800 a month (for 17 days). Pig out on the plane, we toss catering every landing. And about half the hotels include breakfast if you happen to be there at the right time. Once you make it through two months in MIA on 1200 a month (+ about 1500/month in per diem) the line shouldn't be a problem.

No ZEDs, there's some flat rate standby on Delta for 200 dollars a ticket. Not sure if that applies internationally.