About Ana

The unintended expat blogger behind FamilyAbroad Network

Ana Silva - Founder of FamilyAbroad Network Photo: FamilyAbroad Network

Hello, I am Ana

I work as a project manager, am a parent, and am an expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.

A few years ago I moved here with my family, and what began as a temporary assignment gradually opened up a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Started

Moving to Portugal wasn't part of the long-term plan. Like many expat relocations, it began as a job opportunity and soon grew into something much larger.

The first months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Routine tasks seemed more complicated than they should.

City skyline in Lisbon, Portugal
Life in Lisbon has its surprises. Photo: FamilyAbroad Network

The Adjustment Period

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and plenty of learning on the fly. Yet gradually, routines settled in. We found places that fit us, connected with other families, and began building something that felt steady.

Why I Built FamilyAbroad Network

Most information online was either corporate relocation guidance or shallow tourism content. What was missing was an honest, everyday family viewpoint.

This site exists to bridge that gap — practical guidance grounded in real life in Portugal.

What This Site Does (And Doesn't)

This site IS:

  • Practical experience gathered from living in Portugal
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever something truly changes

This site ISN'T:

  • Not a resource for tourism authorities
  • A platform for paid reviews
  • An ordinary travel blog

Moving Forward

Our time in Portugal goes on, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue documenting what we discover.

If you have questions about family life in Lisbon or anywhere in Portugal, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Best regards,

Ana

Lisbon, Portugal