Very interesting reading @newageinv …

”My travel here to Colombia has given me some perspective on a number of things. While my thoughts may be criticized a bit, I have come to rethink my perspective of the US dollar for the short term. My thoughts of cryptocurrencies and precious metals have not changed towards being my best choices for storing the value of the little wealth we are able to accumulate from our hard work and ventures but I have come to realize the strong perception of the US dollar in some countries.”

… to pick up on the perspective you’ve gained from your trip. IMHO the vast majority of Americans do not appreciate what has been achieved by the diligence and hard work of their forefathers. Resulting in the American dollar being established as the reserve currency of the world (currently), which bestows upon us advantages that are poorly understood. I’d say very poorly …

This status is constantly under assault. Including from our own banking system, which is continuously working to devalue it in the appearance of a “race” with the other major currencies of the world … To where? To what end? …

”Of course, I would check it out when I had the chance as saw that they made about 20% off the exchange! As I talked with the friends and family we are staying with, they told me that you can see exchanges range from 10-30% in normal conditions but that things have improved …”

I suppose “improved” is relative. I think this is one area where “digital assets” have an important role to play. At least they are holding out that promise. As with so much of it in its “infancy,” we’ll see if that promise is realized over time …

So … A “millionaire” for a few minutes! Your post is about what USD represents there in Columbia. The other end of the spectrum would be the plight of the nearby Venezuelans and what any of their “millionaire” amounts of bolivars can actually purchase …

Yep, anyway, great insights gained @newageinv. Glad you are enjoying a great vacation and sharing your perspective, as time allows.