I'm looking at going to South America for 6-8 weeks in May and am trying to find a cheap ticket from either SFO/OAK or possibly NYC.

What are generally the cheapest airports to fly into? I haven't made any sort of itinerary yet so am open to (almost) anything.


Also, any suggestions on places that I should go in this time frame would be appreciated. I'm a woman traveling alone so want to stay in safe places and I'm on a budget. Any ideas?