Profile of Olivia
The unintended expatriate blogger behind Harvest Canvas Grove
Photo: Harvest Canvas Grove
Hi there, I'm Olivia
I work as a project manager. I'm a parent and an expat living in London, United Kingdom.
Some years ago I moved here with my family. What began as a short-term contract gradually became a new chapter of life abroad.
How It Started
Moving to United Kingdom wasn’t part of the long-term plan. Like many expat moves, it began as a work opportunity and quickly became something much bigger.
The first months were intense — new systems, new routines, new expectations. Everyday tasks felt more complicated than they should.
The Adjustment Period
There was culture shock, uncertainty, and a lot of learning by doing. But slowly, routines formed. We discovered places that worked for us, met other families, and started building something that felt stable.
Why I Built Harvest Canvas Grove
Most information online was either corporate-level relocation advice or surface-level tourism material. What was missing was honest, day-to-day family perspective.
This site exists to close that gap — practical guidance based on real life in United Kingdom.
What This Site Is (And Isn't)
This site IS:
- Hands-on experience from living in United Kingdom
- Centered on family life and day-to-day realities
- Updated whenever something truly changes
This site ISN'T:
- A resource for tourism authorities
- A platform for sponsored reviews
- A generic travel blog
Looking Ahead
Our stay in United Kingdom goes on, and so does the learning journey. As long as the information remains useful, I will continue recording what we uncover.
If you have questions about family life in London or anywhere in United Kingdom, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
Best regards,
Olivia
London, United Kingdom