Profile of Ana

An accidental expat blogger behind SteadyBrookTrail

Ana Sousa - Founder of SteadyBrookTrail Photo: SteadyBrookTrail

Hello, I'm Ana

I work as a project manager. I’m a parent. I’m an expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.

Several years ago, I moved here with my family. What started as a temporary assignment slowly evolved into a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Started

Moving to Portugal wasn't part of the long-range plan. Like many expatriate relocations, it started as a work chance and quickly grew into something far bigger.

The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should.

City skyline in Lisbon, Portugal
Life in Lisbon brings surprises. Photo: SteadyBrookTrail

The Adjustment Period

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But gradually, routines took shape. We found places that worked for us, connected with other families, and began building something that felt stable.

Why I Built SteadyBrookTrail

Most information online came from corporate relocation guidance or surface-level tourism content. What was missing was an honest, everyday family viewpoint.

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

What This Site Contains (And Lacks)

This site is:

  • Hands-on experience from living in Portugal
  • Centered on family life and everyday realities
  • Updated whenever something meaningful changes

This site is not:

  • A resource from a tourism authority
  • A platform for sponsored reviews
  • A generic travel blog

Looking Forward

Our stay in Portugal continues, along with the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll keep documenting what we discover.

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

Best regards,

Ana

Lisbon, Portugal