Learn about Maria

The accidental expat blogger behind Pivxel Anori

Maria Sousa - Founder of Pivxel Anori Photo: Pivxel Anori

Hello, I'm Maria

I work as a project manager and am a parent, currently living abroad in Lisbon, Portugal.

A few years back, I moved here with my family. What started as a short-term assignment gradually evolved into a new chapter of life overseas.

How It Began

Moving to Portugal wasn't in our long-range plan. As with many expat relocations, it started as a work opportunity and soon grew into something far more substantial.

The opening months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, heightened expectations. Daily tasks felt more complex than they should.

City skyline in Lisbon, Portugal
Life in Lisbon comes with its share of surprises. Photo: Pivxel Anori

The Transition Phase

There was culture shock, ambiguity, and a lot of hands-on learning. Gradually, routines settled in. We found places that suited us, connected with other families, and began shaping something that felt steady.

Why I Created Pivxel Anori

Most information online was either corporate relocation guidance or surface-level travel material. What was missing was an honest, everyday family perspective.

This site aims to fill that void — practical guidance drawn from real life in Portugal.

What This Site Covers (And What It Doesn't)

This site IS:

  • Hands-on insights from living in Portugal
  • Centered on family life and day-to-day realities
  • Updated whenever there is a real change

This site is NOT:

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

Looking Ahead

Our time in Portugal goes on, along with the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue documenting what we discover.

If you have questions regarding family life in Lisbon or anywhere in Portugal, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Best regards,

Maria

Lisbon, Portugal