Profile of Sophia
The inadvertent expat blogger behind Birch Axleiron
Photo: Birch Axleiron
Hello, I'm Sophia
I work as a project manager, a parent, and I’m an expat living in Madrid, Spain.
A few years back I moved here with my family. What began as a short-term assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.
How It Started
Moving to Spain wasn’t part of the long-term plan. Like many expat moves, it started with a job opportunity and soon grew into something much more significant.
The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, and new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more challenging than expected.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But gradually, routines settled in. We found places that suited us, met other families, and began building something that felt stable.
Why I Built Birch Axleiron
Most information online was either corporate relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was an honest, everyday family perspective.
This site exists to fill that gap — practical guidance drawn from real life in Spain.
What This Site Includes (And Excludes)
This site covers:
- Hands-on experience from living in Spain
- Centered on family life and daily realities
- Updated whenever there are meaningful changes
This site ISN'T:
- Not a tourism authority resource
- Not a sponsored review platform
- Not a generic travel blog
What’s Next
Our stay in Spain continues, and the learning journey goes on. As long as the information remains helpful, I’ll keep recording what we find.
If you have questions about family life in Madrid or anywhere in Spain, please get in touch.
Best regards,
Sophia
Madrid, Spain