They're hard work but worth it. My last one ended badly because I was a dbag but we're still good friends. My current one is good despite we don't get to talk much but all I ever hear is that she's bragging about me lol. If you live on another continent then it could be tough but if you're in the same state it isn't so bad. It really helps form a bond as you have to trust each other totally.
It's actually funny. She lived in Virginia and I lived in Washington State.
Obviously our story worked out in the end, so I believe yours can as well.
Best of luck!