Profile of Joao
The accidental expatriate blogger behind BrickEmberFen
Photo: BrickEmberFen
Hi there, I am Joao
Role: project manager. Parent. Expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.
Several years ago, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary contract gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.
How It Started
Relocating to Portugal wasn’t part of the long-term plan. Like many expat moves, it began as a work opportunity and quickly became something much bigger.
The first months were intense — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt stable.
Why I Built BrickEmberFen
Most information online was either corporate-level relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.
This site exists to close that gap — practical guidance based on real life in Portugal.
What This Site Is (And Isn't)
This site IS:
- Hands-on experience from living in Portugal
- Centered on family life and daily realities
- Updated whenever something truly changes
This site ISN'T:
- A resource from a tourism authority
- A paid-review platform
- A generic travel blog
Looking Ahead
Our stay in Portugal goes on, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll continue recording what we uncover.
If you have inquiries about family life in Lisbon or anywhere in Portugal, please contact me.
Best regards,
Joao
Lisbon, Portugal