Vince - welcome. You ever heard of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy? It is a relatively short-term and very practical type of therapy that might be helpful in your situation. It has helped many people in your situation overcome their fears. It does require someone who is really motivated to change their thinking patterns, and willing to work hard at it -- rather than someone who thinks "this is who I am and it will never change." But if you are motivated, you can be the European traveler you want to be. Check it out. (I have traveled a lot, all over the world -- it is really worthwhile)