About
From questions to clarity — a guide born from real family life in Portugal
Hi, I’m Lara. In 2019, I moved to Portugal and like many families who consider relocating here, I was drawn by the sunshine, the slower pace of life, and the promise of a better future. But beneath the beautiful landscapes, I quickly discovered how complex, confusing and sometimes frustrating the relocation process can be — especially when you’re doing it with a child by your side.
That’s why I created Portugal Family Life — not as a blog, not as a travel guide, but as a realistic, honest and helpful resource for families like yours.
This isn’t a sugar-coated story about “living your best life by the beach.”
It’s a carefully built guide based on:
first-hand experience with bureaucracy, schools, healthcare, housing, and parenting in a new culture
research and resources verified with local knowledge
and above all, empathy for families trying to make things work, one step at a time
Whether you're still exploring the idea of moving or you're knee-deep in paperwork, this space is for you.
Why it matters
Because relocating as a family is more than a move —
it’s a shift in identity, routine, language, support systems… and heart.
And no, there’s no one-size-fits-all checklist.
Thank you for being here!
If you’re considering starting a new life in Portugal, I hope this guide helps you find more clarity, less stress, and a whole lot of hope.
