Profile of Mia

The accidental expatriate blogger behind Sprout Vale Harbor

Mia Schmidt - Founder of Sprout Vale Harbor Photo: Sprout Vale Harbor

Hello, I'm Alex

Project manager and parent. An expat residing in Berlin, Germany.

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

How It Started

Moving to Germany wasn't in the plans for the long term. As with many international moves, it began as a job opportunity and quickly grew into something much bigger.

In the early months, it was overwhelming — unfamiliar systems, new routines, and fresh expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should.

City skyline in Berlin, Germany
Life in Berlin comes with its surprises. Photo: Sprout Vale Harbor

The Adjustment Period

There was culture shock, doubt, and plenty of learning on the fly. Yet gradually, routines settled in. We found places that worked for us, connected with other families, and began creating something steady.

Why I Built Sprout Vale Harbor

Much of the information online was either corporate relocation guidance or shallow tourism content. What was lacking was a frank, everyday family perspective.

This site aims to fill that gap — practical guidance grounded in real life in Germany.

What This Site Represents (And Does Not)

This site IS:

  • Practical know-how from living in Germany
  • Centered on family life and everyday realities
  • Updated only when something truly changes

This site ISN'T:

  • Not a tourism board resource
  • Not a platform for sponsored reviews
  • Not a generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our stay in Germany continues, and so does the learning curve. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll keep recording what we uncover.

If you have questions about family life in Berlin or anywhere in Germany, feel free to get in touch.

Cheers,

Mia

Berlin, Germany