Profile of Maria
The unintended expat blogger behind MarketsHardCider
Photo: MarketsHardCider
Hi, I'm Maria
I work as a project manager, I'm a parent, and I’m an expat living in Düsseldorf, Germany.
A few years ago I moved here with my family. What began as a temporary contract gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.
How It Started
Moving to Germany wasn't part of our long-range plan. Like many expatriate relocations, it started as a job opportunity and soon grew into something much more significant.
The initial months were demanding — unfamiliar systems, new routines, new expectations. Daily tasks seemed more challenging than they ought to be.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, doubt, and plenty of learning on the fly. Gradually, routines took shape. We found places that suited us, connected with other families, and began crafting something that felt steady.
Why I Built MarketsHardCider
Most online guidance was either corporate relocation advice or shallow tourism material. What was absent was an honest, everyday family viewpoint.
This site aims to fill that gap — practical advice drawn from real-life experiences in Germany.
What This Site Is (And Isn't)
This site is:
- Hands-on experience from living in Germany
- Centered on family life and everyday situations
- Updated only when there is a real change
This site is not:
- An official tourism authority resource
- A platform for paid reviews
- Just another generic travel blog
Looking Ahead
Our time in Germany goes on, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I’ll continue to document what we discover.
If you have questions about family life in Düsseldorf or anywhere in Germany, please get in touch.
Kind regards,
Maria
Düsseldorf, Germany