I think it would too easy to say "just follow your heart" in this situation, but that's what's often said by those who have nothing at stake.

I have had the experience of travelling when I was younger, and I don't regret it. There is surely a lot of fear to overcome, but this is precisely what builds character.

You certainly sound like you are going about this the right way -- and by that I mean the right way is YOUR way. There is no set formula for these things... sometimes the best thing you can do is to just go with your gut, be smart, and if it doesn't work out, you'll have the satisfaction of discovering something new about yourself.