Karine Armen: Traveling With a Purpose

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. 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 close to the shore at the Pacific beaches. Every afternoon, I watched the sunset and took 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 embraced cultural events and celebrated 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 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 her house’s corridor. 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 groups. So, I had posted the articles on my website earlier to be 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 attend a ballet at Teatro Popular Melico Salazar. I had spent quality time in the forests and beaches, but I enjoyed going to cultural events.