Nah, don’t think it’s that bad, but then I’m a blow-in so I’m not sure how deep the historical rivalry runs. In my experience it’s just estate agents that talk it up.
East Cowes seems a bit more workaday, less of a resort town. Has fewer pubs, shops and yatch clubs than its regatta-throwing counterpart across the Medina. Although there’s always Osborne House, if you like sort of thing. Royal Cowes, innit?
All things considered I’d rather live in Cowes than E Cowes. If you haven’t actually bought anywhere permanent, other places that seem like a good pitch, from the outside looking in, are Bembridge and St Helen’s.
Bigyinn might be along in a minute to convince you Ryde is better. 😛