Yes speed seduction works even in Europe. When you understand the basic patterns, you can fit them in your culture. In my experience, it doesn't work when people don't use it for whatever reason.
I would also recommend Bandler over McKenna-Breen for tapesets. There's "Patterns of persuasion" & "Persuasion Engineering". In my opinion, Richard Bandler has the most advanced technology you can get in the field of NLP.
Outside of persuasion, the "Neurosonics" and "DHE 2000" are real treats to get a big leap in your evolution and then after listening you can model Bandler or do borrowed genius with him and then you get the skills you want. You can check at www.purenlp.com
As for relationships and influence, from what I've learned with Bandler, the most important piece is the state you're in, even before any skills. If you can amplify a good feeling state enough, then other people will go in it with you and then you can ask for whattever, because they feel so good. Then, you don't have to worry about techniques, although it helps to have multiple skiils.
Hope this helps!
Alex