About Sofia

An accidental expat blogger behind GladeFieldWorks

Sofia Costa - Founder of GladeFieldWorks Photo: GladeFieldWorks

Hey, I'm Sofia

Project manager. Parent. An expatriate based in Lisbon, Portugal.

A few years back, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually evolved into a fresh chapter of life abroad.

How It Started

Moving to Portugal wasn't part of the long-term plan. As with many international moves, it began as a job opportunity and soon grew into something far more significant.

The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, and expectations. Daily tasks seemed more tangled than they ought to.

City skyline in Lisbon, Portugal
Living in Lisbon brings its share of surprises. Photo: GladeFieldWorks

The Adjustment Period

There was culture shock, ambiguity, and plenty of hands-on learning. Yet gradually routines took shape. We found places that suited us, connected with other families, and began creating something that felt steady.

Why I Built GladeFieldWorks

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

This site aims to fill that gap — practical advice drawn from real-life experiences in Portugal.

What This Site Represents (And What It Isn’t)

This site IS:

  • Practical know-how from living in Portugal
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever a real change occurs

This site ISN'T:

  • Not a tourism authority resource
  • Not a sponsored review platform
  • Not a generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our time in Portugal continues, and the learning process goes on. 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 contact me.

Best regards,

Sofia

Lisbon, Portugal