Profile of Ana

The inadvertent expat blogger behind Maple Horizon Timber

Ana Costa - Founder of Maple Horizon Timber Photo: Maple Horizon Timber

Hi, I'm Ana

I work as a project manager. a parent. Expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.

A few years ago, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually became 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 far more significant.

The first few months were demanding — unfamiliar processes, fresh routines, elevated expectations. Everyday chores seemed more complicated than they needed to be.

City skyline in Lisbon, Portugal
Life in Lisbon offers its fair share of surprises. Photo: Maple Horizon Timber

The Adjustment Period

Culture shock, uncertainty, and plenty of hands-on learning followed. Yet, gradually routines took shape. We found spots that suited us, connected with other families, and began creating something that felt secure.

Why I Built Maple Horizon Timber

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

This site aims to fill that gap with practical guidance drawn from real life in Portugal.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site represents:

  • Practical, real-world experience from living in Portugal
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever there is a real change

This site doesn’t aim to be:

  • An official tourism-board resource
  • A platform for sponsored reviews
  • Just another generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our stay in Portugal goes on, as does the learning journey. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll continue noting what we discover.

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

Best regards,

Ana

Lisbon, Portugal