What's it really like...

IMHO, its a lot like PDX, only warmer.  It's raining here, but I find a jacket too warm.  I'm totally comfortable in short sleeves.

It's a working town, not pretentious like some big cities.  Its like PDX without the hipsters. There are lots of my people here - you know, the blue hairs.  Only they don't do blue... they're just gray.  People dress casually, it's not a big fashion town like Rome or Paris.

Lots and lots of retirees, on the street, on the bus, slowly walking, some with canes - but they are respected and given leeway... they are visible, unlike Amerika.  Lots of people of different nationalities, old and young.  Remember, Portugal had great explorers - Vasco de Gama, Henry the Navigator... they had many colonies and a lot of those people ended up here.  I think the country is richer for it.

It's gritty, but in a good way. People look you in the eye when you approach.  A smile, a nod, a wink is acknowledged.  People have cell phones, but they're not engrossed in them.  They're TALKING on their phones (what a concept), not texting or checking out KK's latest ass shot.

The sidewalks are all done in mosaic tiles.  I thought they would be slippery, but they seem to be ok, even in the rain.  There are hills here - think SF.  Here's a sample (notice the old lady walking up the hill - a very common sight).

So would I recommend it?
In a heartbeat...