So the reason we're in Porto as opposed to Lisbon is I took a trip here with a group of fabulous people four years ago all around Portugal, and while every town had its own unique charms and plusses, pretty much every one of us decided we liked Porto the best. Again, part of it is that hard to describe "vibe" thing. For me, it's also that aspect of being on/near water - that speaks to me. So when I decided to check out Portgual as a possible retirement option, Porto is where I decided to look first. And I'm digging it. Yes, even with this hateful little brat trying to harsh my buzz with his outrageous and shitty behavior, I'm digging it.
Our apartment is small but clean and well situated (pics below). We are in the Bolhao neighborhood, in the Batalha area right around the corner from a very picaresque chruch (pics soon) on a small alley/street that's quiet outside of the occasional cawing seagulls (more on THOSE bitches later!). Less than 10 minute walk from the bridge.
Bolhao is a great neighborhood I would consider living in as it's centrally located, has a great mix of local and "tourist" stuff, lots of shopping and eateries, multiple plazas, vibrant and lively without being crushingly crowded, etc. I love just being out and about. There are multiple subway/metro stops/lines within a less than 10 minute walk, multiple bus lines, scooter and bike rental apps, and the city is served by Uber. It's clean and safe. 3 different supermarkets nearby, a good sized mall with a mixed food court (American and local stuff), the famous, large Bolhao Market, the famous Majestic Cafe, etc, etc, etc.
As mentioned, our apartment is small - mostly coz it's what I could afford in an area in which I'd be interested in living. Modern/re-done and clean, washing machine (pretty much every apartment you rent outside of America it's expected you have a washing machine), etc. I'm definitely paying more than in Mexico or Ecuador. This one-bedroom is about $1,200 a month, BUT is furnished and includes all utilities, good/fast internet, AND weekly cleaning. So still less than what I'd be paying in Oklahoma for a similar set up. Better weather, too, needless to say. More on that as we're here longer and experience it.
We're also on the top floor of a four floor building. Walk up. So we're getting exercise, lol, but also no upstairs neighbors and have a decent enough rooftop view.
Below are pics of our place. Coming soon: more on food - including prices and options, the weather, the people, the seagulls, etc.
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