Idaho Living Diary

💎Having spent 20 days living in Boise, the "City of Gems," I’ve gathered not just travel tips but also personal reflections on what makes this Idaho capital a uniquely appealing place. If you're curious about whether Boise could be your next home, read on. 🌟 The Pros: Why Boise Shines Nature’s Playground 🏞️: From the Boise River Greenbelt to nearby hot springs and ski slopes, outdoor lovers will find their paradise. The city is remarkably green, with parks and waterways that rival those of Seattle Clean & Safe Downtown 🧹: A rare urban gem – no visible homelessness, even under bridges or in parking lots. As visitors from the West Coast, we were stunned (and pleasantly surprised!). Compact & Convenient 🚗: The city is small and easy to navigate. A drive from suburban Meridian to the opposite side takes just 20 minutes – without traffic. Family-Friendly Suburbs 👨‍👩‍👧: Areas like Eagle offer beautiful lakeside homes, top-tier schools, and imaginative playgrounds that look like water parks Stunning Sunsets 🌅: Boise’s skies frequently light up with dramatic, fiery sunsets ⚠️ The Cons: Things to Consider Low Asian Population 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦: Asians make up less than 2% of Idaho’s population. Limited Asian Groceries 🛒: Few options for Asian ingredients, plus a 6% state grocery tax. Rising Housing Costs 🏠: Its popularity as a livable city is no secret – and prices reflect that. (Locals still playfully call Idaho the “Potato State” 🥔😂.) 📍 Must-Visit Spots in & Around Boise Old Idaho Penitentiary ⛓️: A century-old prison with a cinematic, slightly haunted atmosphere Esther Simplot Park 💦: A water lover’s hub where people even surf Boise River Greenbelt 🚴 + Idaho Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial Lucky Peak State Park 🏞️ Boise Depot 🚂: Features a 1920s steam locomotive on abandoned tracks. Together Treasure Valley Dog Island 🐕: A pup’s dream – a dog park surrounded by water! 🏛️ Downtown Gems Freak Alley Gallery 🎨: Vibrant, ever-changing graffiti art Capital City Public Market 🥐: A lively Saturday market. Idaho State Capitol 🏛️ Hyde Park 🌳: A beautiful neighborhood in North Boise with cozy cafes and local charm. Boise may not be perfect, but its balance of nature, safety, and community spirit makes it a strong contender for those seeking a slower, richer quality of life. Whether you're visiting or considering a move – Boise leaves a mark. #US #ID #Boise