Book separately - and forget the Presidente
Check the board as well as CRT sponsors for good places to stay - and the Presidente is NOT one of them
Re a buddy/wingman - especially for your 1st trip, it can help - but he's not going to know anymore than you....so you need a hotel, like the Sportsmans that attracts like minded people - also, "Pops Tour" (search it on the board) would be a good idea as would joining CRT as a "VIP" - gives you more board acess as well as many discounts on hotels, res't, etc.
Plan on doing a lot of reading - it will seem overwhelming at first, but will then sort of make sense. Ask any questions, but after 7 years w/ the board I can tell you questions are always better answered when the person asking has done some research and reading.
Good luck and welcome to the board
PS Don't stay at the Presidente!