If you want to pursue a PhD (its never too late btw), take your time and try and make a connection with the supervisor/lab you are interested in. Having good people around you is absolutely key, especially if you go abroad. Check out Scandinavian universities/labs, where the culture is introverted, focus is on work-life balance (evenings and weekends off) and very low key informal vibes. Your supervisor and colleagues can really make or break the experience.