Well I've been to Ecuador and your GF probably didn't miss anything that great lol.
But seriously Chile doesn't really have the best historical precedent... Plus the countries politics are firmly grounded in socialist ideals and don't forget about the large magnitude earthquakes it suffers through regularly.
If you think like that, then you shouldn't go to California either, same earthquake problem and the state is broke.
Chile is a very stable country, equal or less corruption than the US, and the best economy in south america. Not to mention really beautiful and great weather.
You should stop worrying so much and start enjoying life a bit more.
But seriously Chile doesn't really have the best historical precedent... Plus the countries politics are firmly grounded in socialist ideals and don't forget about the large magnitude earthquakes it suffers through regularly.