Profile of Sophia

The accidental expatriate blogger behind Rural Oak Silk

Sophia Schmidt - Founder of Rural Oak Silk Photo: Rural Oak Silk

Hello, I'm Sophia

I am a project manager, a parent, and an expatriate living in Berlin, Germany.

A few years back, I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary assignment gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.

How It All Began

Moving to Germany wasn't in the master plan. Like many international relocations, it started as a job opportunity and quickly grew into something far more significant.

The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, new expectations. Routine tasks seemed more complicated than expected.

City skyline in Berlin, Germany
Life in Berlin brings surprises. Photo: Rural Oak Silk

The Adjustment Phase

There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But gradually, routines took hold. We found places that fit us, met other families, and started building something that felt steady.

Why I Created Rural Oak Silk

Most online information was either corporate relocation guidance or shallow tourism content. What was missing was a candid, everyday family viewpoint.

This site exists to bridge that gap — practical advice grounded in real life in Germany.

What This Site Is (And Isn't)

This site IS:

  • Practical experience gained from living in Germany
  • Centered on family life and daily realities
  • Updated whenever something truly changes

This site ISN'T:

  • Not a resource for tourism authorities
  • Not a sponsored review platform
  • Not a generic travel blog

Looking Ahead

Our time in Germany continues, and so does the learning process. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue documenting what we discover.

If you have questions about family life in Berlin or anywhere in Germany, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Best regards,

Sophia

Berlin, Germany