LOL, it doesn't take days to get anywhere in the Eve universe. Yes, if you're in a hauler (one of the slowest types of ships in the game) and you're going from one side of the universe to the other, it could literally take hours. But who the hell does that? Most ppl who move in haulers are making short runs (say 10 hops), and with insta bookmarks, it'll take u all of 25minutes for a round trip. Usually to make decent profit. Otherwise, if you ARE making a big move to the other side of the universe, you usually travel in a fast frigate. If you need a hauler when u get there, just buy or make one.
If you're doing kill missions for an agent, it's unlikely that you'll have to visit more than a couple hops out. Most missions are in-system.
Now PVP hunting parties is another story
It's all up to the group/gang leader as to where/how far you guys are headed to kill some bad guys. Then, it's all about the strategy of the killing/ganking vs how long it takes to get from point A to B.
Skills can take a while to learn at higher levels, but there are other skills, implants, etc that can reduce training time. And yes - you keep learning even while offline.. skill management after your first month or so playing isn't as hectic. You don't have to worry about those little 1 hour and 2 hour skills after a while. Then, it'll be watching the 1-5 day skills.. which doesn't take as much time at keys to manage