Newby to Portland in search of opinions, feedback, testimonials. I arrived at PDX from Bangkok on May 20th and could use a little local wisdom about where to look for housing and how to avoid problems. I have never been to Portland before and I don’t know anyone in the area. I am traveling with my dog (Jack), so I guess I am technically not “alone”, but I don’t think that Jack will provide much in the way of good advice. 

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  As a result of a bicycle accident, I am recovering from a severe head injury, and on disability, so not working or looking for work. Hoping to find a place where I can bicycle without a repeat of this, and am hoping that Portland is that place. I am not really able to operate a motor vehicle any longer, partly due to my injuries (but mostly because they emit CO2), so I am looking for an area where biking/walking/public transit can be sole transport. I am not getting rich on disability, so the area also needs to be affordable.  My biggest concern is finding low cost housing in a relatively safe area. I actually prefer to live in a more rural area, but that would seem to require getting a car. Mmmm… Being in a gay neighborhood would be nice, but I know that this is likely to exceed my finances. Having Jack with me does not help much when looking for an apartment. I’m hoping to find a studio for around $400-500. I know that this is not too likely in any decent area of Portland. Maybe Vancouver? I am also open to a roomate situation, but so far have not had any success with finding anyone willing to even talk to me being on disability and with a full size dog. Anybody have any suggestions? I would love to hear any ideas/thoughts.   -Bondage47

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