No I have not encountered the issue for a while now. Not sure which patch exactly was the one to fix it, but I think its fair to say the issue has been resolved.
Another update, the tavern method seems to work for most towns except Sargot. I simply cannot load into that settlement through any means. Still the case as of 1.04.
I continuously crash when trying to load into any major town, whether it be by trying to "walk around" or trying to directly talk to someone. I am also unable to send a crash report. I have had this issue occur somewhat infrequently until today on both the last few hours of 1.02 and now on 1,03...