To answer that eternal question you asked, I've been using a different approach: by not answering it at all. Does it even matter if the world is real or not?
We all have our limits, on how far we can see and how much we can grasp. By acknowledging that limit, I achieve the peace of mind. By focusing on something outside of me, something greater than me, I achieve "無我". What I am, what I know. and what I understand, are no longer that important.
Is the world is real or not? It is however you want to or you can perceive it.