Admittedly, it was only for three years (and I have since lived in Portsmouth for six) – but this does at least make me qualified to compare the two cities.
It is thanks to this experience that I can now confidently say Portsmouth is a significantly better place to live. Here are my 11 reasons why this is factually true.
9. Royal Navy
With our aircraft carriers HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Queen Elizabeth - and a vast naval history - the Royal Navy has been engrained into the DNA of this city. It is far more interesting than the merchant ships of Southampton. And yes I know they have cruise ships but our fabulous port in Portsmouth is also expanding its offering there too! Photo: Chris Moorhouse
10. Roads
While we like to complain about the state of our roads and the constant roadworks, speaking from experience things are far worse the other side of the Itchen Bridge. Our motorway access is far better too. Photo: Chris Moorhouse
11. Uniqueness
We are the UK's ONLY island city - that makes us totally different to everywhere else in the country. Our uniqueness is something to be celebrated and ensures that, unlike our neighbours, we are not just like everyone else! | Alex Shute