Profile of Ana

The unintended expat blogger behind Summit Citrine Solace

Ana Sousa - Founder of Summit Citrine Solace Photo: Summit Citrine Solace

Hi there, I'm Ana

I manage projects. I am a parent. An expatriate based in Lisbon, Portugal.

Several years ago I moved here with my family. What began as a short-term assignment gradually opened a new chapter of life abroad.

How It Began

Moving to Portugal wasn't in the master plan. Like many international transfers, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something far larger.

The initial months were demanding — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Routine tasks felt more tricky than they ought to be.

City skyline in Lisbon, Portugal
Life in Lisbon comes with surprises. Photo: Summit Citrine Solace

The Adjustment Phase

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. Yet gradually, routines took shape. We found places that fit us, met other families, and began building something that felt steady.

Why I Created Summit Citrine Solace

Most information online was either 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 advice drawn from real life in Portugal.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site is:

  • Hands-on insights from living in Portugal
  • Centered on family life and everyday realities
  • Updated whenever real changes occur

This site is not:

  • An official tourism authority resource
  • A platform for sponsored reviews
  • A generic travel blog

Looking Forward

Our stay in Portugal continues, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll keep 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