It kinda sounds like Mendo was just trying to get laid, not necessarily love. Love could be tricky in any developing nation since they'll view you for your wallet as soon as they know you're american.
Mendo if you're trying to get laid then perhaps you need to lower your standards a bunch (since they're currently at young, sexy, Columbiana levels) and hit up some of the online dating sites. As for dating or casual relationships, sure some women are only attracted to a big wallet or "power", but others just want to have fun. Many are looking for love instead of casual though, and love doesn't belong in the "the singles thread". I think as women's earning power and societal power begins to match that of men's, you'll see more and more couple of similar levels of attractiveness, but we're not they're yet. Aim for the ones that want "fun" moreso than big-cars and big wallets (or long-term commitment) i bet they are out there, just be mindful of your initial attractiveness on a scale of 1-10. You're a smart, funny guy, adventuresome (since you ready to bolt to columbia) so add a couple points to your initial number and aim high.