Profile of Ana

The unintended expat blogger behind FieldQuillBough

Ana Silva - Founder of FieldQuillBough Photo: FieldQuillBough

Hello, I am Ana

I'm a project manager, a parent, and an expat based in Lisbon, Portugal.

Several years ago I moved here with my family, and what began as a short-term assignment gradually became a whole new chapter living abroad.

How It Began

Moving to Portugal wasn’t in the original plan. Like many international moves, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something bigger.

The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks seemed more complex than expected.

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

The Adaptation Phase

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But gradually, routines settled in. We found places that suited us, connected with other families, and began building something that felt steady.

Why I Created FieldQuillBough

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

This site exists to fill that gap — practical guidance drawn from real life in Portugal.

What This Site Covers (And Excludes)

This site includes:

  • Real-world experience from living in Portugal
  • Centered on family life and everyday realities
  • Updated when something truly changes

This site does not include:

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

Looking Ahead

Our stay 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 get in touch.

Best regards,

Ana

Lisbon, Portugal