Training required: hard to say without flying with you. 2 to 3 sorties gets most people back up to speed if they are in some sort of flying practice. Less than that if they are in current flying practice.
IR renewal can be done on SIM, MEP can not be done on SIM.
IR renewal (or revalidation) flight can be combined with MEP class renewal/revalidation. In fact, this is often the smartest way of doing it. Requires a number of visual exercises to be flown in addition to the IF stuff.
Why go abroad for a couple of flights? It might make sense for a whole course, but I cannot believe it would pay off for a renewal/revalidation. If you are anywhere near the South East of England contact me through my web site or via email and I might be able to sort something out for/with you.
Regards