ReDiscovering Boston

 

                Boston from the Charles River

                The Boston Common Park

                    Isabella Gardner Museum

Visiting Boston after many years brought back memories and a new appreciation for a well-designed city. I had visited Boston three times, but I had not yet visited any museums. I went back after 30 years and stayed with my friend from July 10 to 16, 2025. It was the first part of my trip, followed by Maryland and Washington, D.C. 

On Friday, my friend took me to the Armenian Cultural Foundation (ACF), the National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR), and the Armenian Museum of America. Although I was aware of the centers and our plan, I was still excited to discover them.

The Armenian Cultural Foundation is situated in a three-story house with Greek columns, located next to a lake in Arlington. The first-floor living room was covered with huge Persian carpets. Around the room were numerous shelves filled with books, and above them were portraits of influential Armenian writers. I told my friend, "This is the perfect place for reading and writing. It's calming." 

The director gave us a tour. There was one room dedicated to the Armenian novelist Hagop Karapents. I saw his desk and typewriter. I wished I could talk with him again. I met Karapents in 1978 in Washington, D.C., where we both lived at the time. He was working for the Voice of America. He invited me to see the radio station. After the visit, we went to lunch at the cafeteria reserved for employees. He gave me his Armenian novel, The Daughter of Cartago. I was not good at reading novels, but I was hooked on this book. It was a page-turner; I couldn't put it down. In 1985, I moved to Glendale, California, but we kept in touch by phone. During one of his visits to California, he came to my one-bedroom apartment and we had a thought-provoking discussion. In addition, I was part of a literary group called The Eighties, and during one of our gatherings, Karapents joined us. I captured several group and candid photos of him and the group. After his death, they used some of my photos to create a video. Also, I took his portrait near a mask. I had photographed several Armenian artists near masks or their work and had an exhibition in 1988. Karapent's portrait was part of my black-and-white photo show.

As we completed the tour of ACF, I signed and donated two self-published books: my poetry book, A Mosaic of Words, and Inner Heaven, a bilingual English and Farsi book that includes self-help articles written by my mother between 1987 and 1988. 

            Hagop Karapents's room at the Armenian Cultural Foundation

We visited NAASR in Belmont and were welcomed by Ani Babaian, the library curator. After a thorough tour of the center, we went to the bookstore on the first floor. David Karamian's travel guide, Armenia - The Lone Stone, A Traveler's Guide, was on the shelf. I grabbed it and showed my photo in the last part, where David gave me credit as a travel consultant. We took a group photo holding the book. Ani kindly invited me to include my books in the library. I signed the books mentioned previously.

NAASR has a new building, specifically designed for multiple purposes, which offers concerts, lectures, and other cultural events. The high ceiling and glass-covered walls created a warm atmosphere. 

National Association for Armenian Studies and Research (NAASR)

We drove to Watertown to visit the Armenian Museum of America. The three-story building is on a corner, with high ceilings and extensive glass windows. It featured several exhibitions, including large black-and-white photographs by Yousuf Karsh, Armenian handicrafts and musical instruments, modern art by Ruben Amirian, and collages by Varujan Boghosian.

On Saturday, my friend took me to Boston. We walked around the historical buildings and the harbor. "The harbor reminds me of San Sebastian in Spain," I told my friend. I traveled in Spain in March and April. Making connections is an integral part of our lives; many places and events remind us of past experiences. Visiting different countries made me appreciate the architecture and museums in the U.S.  

On Sunday, my friend's husband prepared an omelet with tomatoes and herbs from their garden. After having our fancy breakfast on their back porch facing the forest, they took me to the beaches near Boston. We visited Nahant, Marblehead, and Red Rock Park. 

In the evenings, I spent time with my friend's daughter's family. The little girls were energetic and playful. On Saturday night, we were invited to my friend's sister's house, who is also a close friend of mine. I had not seen her for 40 years, yet she welcomed me with warmth and served a variety of Persian food. Another evening, long-time friends came over and we talked for hours. 

On Monday, I had lunch with a friend I hadn't seen since 1997. Later, I had dinner with a teacher friend at a restaurant on the Charles River. 

Around sunset, I walked along the river and took several photos with my iPhone 16. The clouds moved, and the lighting changed. The unexpected can be frightening or exciting. As I walked, I asked people about the bridge. The Longfellow Bridge is an arch bridge that spans the Charles River, connecting the city of Cambridge to Boston. Cars, trains, and pedestrians can cross it. 

On Tuesday and Wednesday, I took the train to the center of Boston. Loved walking,  discovering parks and building, and taking photos. I was fascinated by the architecture of the Boston Public Library, Harvard University, the Museum of Fine Arts,  and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The ladder has a building similar to those found in Venice, Italy, palaces. 

I was not sure what to expect. It was a memorable trip, connecting with friends and rediscovering Boston, as well as the Armenian centers. It feels great to leave with a sense of satisfaction and gratitude. 

https://armenianculturalfoundation.net/

https://naasr.org/

https://www.armenianmuseum.org/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dLNTXxLL1o&t=2431s

Costa Rica

Traveling with a purpose gives me energy. In 2024, I spent six weeks in Costa Rica.

My youngest brother, Vazrik, had just returned from Costa Rica and generously bought my airline ticket. “Go stay for a while. You are retired,” he said. I appreciated his kindness, but I needed a purpose for such a long trip. So, I decided to improve my Spanish skills and explore the West Coast of Costa Rica. In December 2006, I studied Spanish in Alajuela, Costa Rica. This time, I chose to study for two weeks in Tamarindo and one week in Samara.

I was an elementary school teacher for 32 years. On June 9, 2023, I retired and began a new chapter—one focused on documenting experiences and dedicating more time to travel and writing.

In February 2024, I published Paraiso Interior, a Spanish-language book (available on my blog). Initially, I published Inner Heaven in 2010 in both English and Farsi. That book compiled positive-thinking articles written by my mother while she lived in the U.S. Her pieces were initially published in Fogholadeh, a Persian magazine. My mother passed away on August 19, 1990, at the age of 57. Her sudden loss left us devastated. After 20 years, I translated her articles and compiled them into a bilingual book, adding family photos to honor her memory.

My journey began when my new friend, Margot, met me at my hotel in San José. Margot and Alla, who run a YouTube podcast, invited me for an interview. Alla Jilobokov, a Russian author who has lived in Costa Rica for many years, has published several novels in Spanish. They asked about my book, my solo travels, and my experience as a vegetarian. I had met Margot in Glendale, California, in December 2023—destiny brought us together. It was a beautiful welcome!

From left: Karine, Margot, and Alla. February 6, 2024

I enjoyed the interactive tour of Teatro Nacional, where two actors explained the history of the building through role-plays as the architect and a female character from a mural. The building reminded me of Teatro Massimo in Palermo, Sicily.

After a few days of sightseeing and meaningful time with Margot and Alla, I traveled to La Fortuna, where I stayed for three nights at Hotel Linda Vista. The hotel staff showed a keen interest in my book, which was heartwarming.

Hotel Linda Vista and the view of Arenal. February 10, 2024

Signing books for the people who showed interest. Liberia, February 18, 2024

Later, I stayed in Liberia, where my brother’s friend, Josias, lived. Her sister, Jessica, owned a nail salon next to my hotel, and we quickly became friends. Jessica’s husband, Esteban, became my private driver. He drove carefully, making stops so I could take photos. We listened to music and talked about life. Esteban wanted to practice English with me, and I wanted to speak in Spanish. He was a great listener. In Costa Rica, most streets don’t have names, so he made sure I went to the destination before he left. 

Jessica and Josias in Liberia, February 13, 2024

Jessica and Esteban’s nine-year-old daughter, Victoria, was a bright and friendly girl. One evening, we danced in the nail salon, laughing together. The next day, as we rode in the car, I encouraged her, “You can write a story about Super Teacher and Super Kid and publish it.” Inspired, she wrote a simple story in English and illustrated it. That moment sparked an idea—to teach creative writing at Margot’s children’s school.

Esteban is a great driver and a gentleman.

From left: Josias's mom, Jessica, Victoria, Esteban, and Josias.

Josias, Jessica, and little Victoria at a restaurant in Jaco Beach near Liberia. February 15.

Both language institutes were located near the shore on the Pacific beaches. Every afternoon, I would watch the sunset and take photos. Most restaurants offered happy hour, where two drinks were served at once. Spending time with international students was enriching.

Tamarindo Beach. March 2, 2024

One of the highlights of my trip was staying at Hotel Belmar in Monteverde. The hotel hosted cultural events and showcased local artists. I happened to be there on March 8 during the Women’s Day celebrations. I presented my book, and the event organizer read a chapter aloud. It was a fulfilling experience—my mission felt like it was complete.

Hotel Belmar in Monteverde. March 9

After 18 years, I reunited with my host family in Alajuela. As we embraced, joy filled the air. “¡Qué guapa!” Irene said in her usual warm tone, admiring me and my work. She used to have women’s support groups in the corridor of her house. I loved the covered and gated area, the corridor, where we could watch people passing by and yet be indoors and safe.   Paraiso Interior was perfect for her group. I had previously posted the articles on my website to make them accessible to everyone.  She was surprised that I remembered her group events. 

Irene with her son, Daniel. March 14

I love this corridor.

Back in San José, I visited Margot’s children’s school and met the principal. One Friday afternoon, I taught a writing lesson that integrated social and emotional learning. The third, fourth, and fifth graders wrote about kindness. “Hello, Super Kids! Writing is fun,” I told each class.

Teaching writing and kindness. March 15, 2024

Later, the principal said, “Thank you for working during your vacation. The teachers and students loved your lessons.”

The view from my Airbnb apartment in Barrio Escalante.

Josias, Daniela, and their baby girl. March 17.

On the last day of my long trip, I went to dinner with Josias (he was in San Jose at that time), his lovely wife, Daniela, and their cute baby girl.  Later, I attended a ballet at Teatro Popular Melico Salazar.  I had spent quality time in the forests and on the on the beaches, but I also enjoyed attending cultural events. 

Bayadere Ballet. March 17, 2024

I left Costa Rica with a deep sense of fulfillment. Traveling with a purpose had made all the difference—it was truly inspirational.

 

Karine's Book Presentation in Spain

 

Karine Armen signing her poetry book A Mosaic of Words in Cuenca, Spain, on March 9, 2025. 

This was published in The Armenian Mirror-Spectator on April 3, 2025

https://mirrorspectator.com/2025/04/03/writer-photographer-karine-armen-presents-book-in-spain/

Cuenca, Spain - On Sunday, March 9, Karine Armen gave a book presentation in Cuenca, Spain. The Garcia and Chico Foundation organized the event, which was hosted by writer and activist Luz Gonzalez Rubio. Following the reading, a wine and cheese reception was held.

Karine Armen talked in Spanish about her photography, traveling alone around the world, and writing journalistic articles and poetry. She read some of her poems in English, and an English professor translated each poem on the spot. The Spanish audience asked questions about Armenian culture, traveling, and cultural identity.

Karine met Luz Gonzalez Rubio, who published several books about women’s rights in Los Angeles 23 years ago. They kept in touch and met in Madrid several times. In August of 2007, they attended the Women In Black conference in Valencia, Spain. Karine wrote an article about attending the peace conference, which was published in The Armenian Reporter.

In February 2025, Karine Armen published her collection of English poems, A Mosaic of Words. Karine holds a master's degree in education, a bachelor's degree in social work, and a degree in photography. She was an elementary school teacher for 32 years.

The primary purpose of Karine’s trip was to pass her books to the Armenian communities of Spain. In 2010, Karine published a book called Inner Heaven to keep her mother’s memory alive. Berjik Kurkjian wrote self-help articles in Farsi, and they were published in Fogholadeh Magazine in Los Angeles. Berjik died at the age of 57 from spinal cancer in 1990. Karine said, “One of my Peruvian coworkers asked me to translate it into Spanish so she could send it to Peru. That comment planted the seed for publishing the book in Spanish. She used Google Translate, and her Chilean friend, Ruby Jackson, edited the Spanish version called Paraiso Interior. Karine published the pocket-size Spanish version in February of 2024 and took some copies to Costa Rica. But she still wanted to connect with the Armenians in Spain.

“I am thankful to the caring people who connected me with active members of the Armenian communities in Spain,” Karine said. She met Aghavni Grigoryan, a musician and writer from Madrid. Aghavni introduced her to several Armenians in other parts of Spain.

Karine visited the Armenian Sunday school in Valencia and passed her books to the principal and the teachers. She also met with the teacher of the Hayq Armenian Dance School in Barcelona.

“My mission was accomplished. I had a book presentation and met with active Armenians in Spain.” Karine said. “Traveling with a purpose is energizing for me,” she added.

Traveling Tips

 

Things to do before you travel:

1. Contact your bank and credit card companies to inform them of your trip dates and locations. 

2—Learn about the culture and history of the place you want to visit. Watch DVDs and read. The more you know about a culture, the more you will enjoy your travels.

3—Pack lightly. Take basic colors and layers. Even in summer, some countries have cold and rainy days. Always have closed shoes for rainy days and comfortable walking shoes for everyday use. Take layers, jackets, and cardigans. During summer, some churches in Europe and temples in Asia expect you to cover your shoulders and arms (especially for women).

4. Pack your electronic gear: camera, mini-laptop, cell phone, and plugs for foreign countries.

5—Always have some cash. Cash is power. Carry small bills, too. Leave some cash for your return; you never know what might happen. You might need to take a taxi or pay for an exit visa in a foreign country.

6. Take a photo of your passport’s first page and your driver’s license. Email the photos to yourself and save a copy of the information in an album called 'Info' on your phone. Make a few copies of your passport and driver’s license, keep one copy in your luggage, and carry one with you at all times. Leave one copy with a close friend in the U.S. Just in case you lose your passport, they can find the number.   On a small piece of paper, write your credit card numbers and contact information.  Keep a copy in your suitcase and another copy with you.

7—Take care of your bills. If you already have monthly deductions from your bank account, ensure that you pay all outstanding amounts in advance to avoid any issues. You want to avoid surprises when you return.

8—Put a timer on a light near the window so that in the evening, it appears as if someone is home.

9-  If you receive the local paper, put it on vacation hold.

10- Buy mini locks for your suitcases.  Lock the checked-in bag.  If TSA breaks it, then you will have an extra one to lock it later.

                                                         During your trip:

1-  Be open-minded.  Respect the local culture. Talk to locals.  Ask questions and listen.

2-  Get up early.  Walk a lot.  Use your time nicely.

3- Drink lots of water.  Drink Emergen-C or Airborne to help prevent dehydration.

4—You can keep a small notebook to track your expenses, cash withdrawals, and credit card charges. You can also create a Google Document and keep track of your itinerary or places you visit. You may share the document with close friends.  

5. Have a calendar page to record the places you visit each day.

6- Carry a colored copy of your passport and ID with you.  Please leave your original passport locked in the hotel safe.  If there is no safe, put it in a locked suitcase. Always lock your luggage in the hotel when you leave the room.

7- Be prepared for the unexpected.  I was in Spain on April 28 when a nationwide power outage occurred across Spain and Portugal.  Nobody could use credit cards.  I had some U.S. dollars, but not enough Euros.  Always keep some extra local money.  Spain has a fantastic infrastructure.  This situation was a big shock to many. 

                                                         After returning:

1-  Unpack, do laundry, and organize your souvenirs.

2- Download the photos.  Keep them organized.  Having a small album can be fun, too.

3. File your maps and information.