I grew up in the US and lived for a summer in Sweden. I have been to over 10 different countries, and I have visited friends in most of them - but I want the stability of a home and roots. I loved Portland OR when I lived there 20+ years ago, and I visit regularly. It is sad that your "tribe" there are all people that look down on the city, and the Pearl District is NOT the heart of Portland - go to the Hawthorne District (SE) to really understand what Portland is about. Also travel around the PNW - Oregon, WA, BC (that will even get you into another country.) Good luck and I hope you can make some TRUE friends that help you learn to appreciate - if not love- the *real* PDX.