Only today did I read the ecuador article I linked. It sounds even better than I thought! I've never been there..now I want to assess it for myself!
Part of why I think it might be a good place, in addition to its near lowest cost, USD use, and permanent residency plans, is that it is SOUTH of Columbia. I am thinking/hoping that takes it out of the drug-cartel trade conduit which passes through all of the countries further north (including ones considered relatively safe, such as Panama and Costa Rica). But I will need to check it out in person; hopefully this summer. I've got a lot of travelling planned for later this year, to check out various countries for general vibe/ability to socially handle hard times without going feral.
Excerpt:
"Living in Ecuador
Ecuador's infrastructure has improved significantly over the past decade. Important infrastructure improvements include a new airport, a new train service in Quito, a new tramline in Cuenca and greater access to high-speed internet throughout the country. Health care standards continue to improve, while costs remain a global bargain. ,B>A specialist visit costs about $38, and a hospital stay costs from $110 per night for a suite or from $60 for a standard room.
Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar as its currency, so retirees who have savings in U.S. dollars or a U.S. dollar-based income don't have to worry about the changing exchange rate.
Expats in Ecuador
Cuenca is home to one of the biggest and most established expat retiree communities in the world. In Cuenca, you will meet plenty of other English-speaking expats who have made the transition to living in Ecuador and can help you acclimate to retirement overseas."
| 
