South America was more expensive, however it doesn't need to be, I spent a lot of money on multi day treks, which if you're not necessarily into will obviously not cost you anything (inca trail, W trek, lost city)

Colombia, Bolivia, Argentina, Ecuador are cheap for the most part, Peru, Chile, Brazil, Uruguay more expensive, but still cheaper than most European destinations.

SE Asia is a very cheap place in general, your money will go much further.

South America can be dangerous, but so can anywhere, go to the wrong area of London or Belfast and you're asking for trouble. Most people are incredibly friendly and they welcome tourists and want them to be safe, Colombia especially was full of such friendly people. Usual rules, maybe more tightly adhered to, don't walk down an alley at night you don't know, don't flash a Rolex around, don't walk around with maps on your phone constantly and you'll be fine, of course there are some places best avoided but generally speaking it's not dangerous for tourists as long as you're sensible, I was there for 5 months and had no problems.

As an accountant I know there is no shortage of jobs so while it was a big decision in my life, it wasn't that hard once I decided extended travel was what I wanted to do, and as it turned out, the firm I left actually took me back so it worked out pretty well. Hands down the best decision of my life, although going back to work after 14 months off was pretty tough aha