Hope & Metamorphosis in San Jose, Costa Rica

Two art installations currently on display in downtown San Jose, Costa Rica explore the ideas of hope, it's virtues and shortfalls, and showcase an artist's journey in textiles. Both invoke thoughtful conversations and inspiration to explore our own surroundings as art. 

+/- Esperanza (+/- Hope) is on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MADC). 28 artists from Central America and the Carribean explore ideas of Hope. Surprisingly, some of these pieces looked at hope from an anxious or deathly perspective. I think these add a level of depth to the entire exhibition. 

My personal favorite is the first photo below. Outside of the Jade Museum, It quotes a very famous Costa Rican writer and poet, Isaac Felipe Azofeifa Bolaño, of which translates to, "Yes, child. The stars have parted, but it never becomes more dark than just before dawn." I find the quote especially appropriate with the image because I've watched this moment many times now with the homeless scattered throughout San Jose. And as an outsider, it's a very dark moment where all you can feel is hope that everyone with less, could have more. 

The National Museum is currently housing a garden of variety and beauty in it's once eery prison chambers. Metamorphosis. A New Cycle is an exhibit of textile art that transforms many fabrics, paper plates, coke tabs and more into displays that take the imagination for a spin. Costa Rican artist, Sylvia Piza-Tandlich, has worked with her community based artists to create these individual pieces that are strung together with threads and links to showcase some extremely impressive handmade pieces. The last photo shows the latrine that has parts of the ceiling from the old Municipal Theater. 

Textile over old Kimono

A Garden

White

Barrio Bird offers walking tours of San Jose. If you are a visitor or have lived here for some time, there is always a new way to see the city. View tours or make a reservation by emailing barriobird@gmail.com or calling 8926-9867.

New Italian and Lights, Sound Romantic? Downtown San Jose, Costa Rica

We are very happy to report on new happenings downtown because most of the time they are adding cultural options or improving ambiance. This post has a little of both to cheer about in downtown San Jose, Costa Rica, making this an ever increasing destination for toursists and expats.


Safer, Nicer Lighting at Plaza de la Cultura: The plaza that sits on top of the Bank Museums and surrounds Teatro Nacional will be receiving a bit of a facelift and a new lighting system beginning next week. The plaza currently has 34 light posts and will be replaced with 11 that give out more light using less energy. A study will be done to determine the optimum placement of these lights and then they will be installed. 


In addition the plaza will be reworked to provide better seating for people to meet and have a true 'plaza experience'. A handicap ramp will also be installed for easier musuem access below. These changes should be completed some time in September. 


Add these changes to the improvements that have already happened on Paseo de los Damas, and the Urban Plan for Barrio Escalante, and in another year we are sure to have a pleasant and safe walking experience from as far as Mall San Pedro down to the heart of the city at Plaza de la Cultura. 


New Italian Restaurant: At least when one restaurant closes another usually opens quickly in its place. Last month I wrote about the closure of Argentine restaurant, Pachamama. Now in its place, on the first floor of Edificio Morazan is Little Italy. This restaurant will be 'softly' open starting next Monday, and continuing to fine-tune the ambiance throughout the week. Hours 11-4 to begin. 


Seeing as how there cannot be enough good pizza in downtown, this place is very welcome and a first round of tasting says the menu items will only get better. Featuring about 10 different pizzas including mexican and exotica (fresh fruits like pineapple, green apple or strawberry), the menu also includes calzones, spaghetti, a pizza burger and salads among its variety of options. Prices are reasonable starting with a small pizza for 2,000 colones to a large for 7,500. 


I still also recommend OK Ristorante Italiano as well for good pizza. Right now I'd say the defining difference is Little Italy is probably serving up heavier meat options while OK is a lighter, more Italian style. 
Buen Provecho!

Barrio Bird offers walking tours of San Jose. If you are a visitor or have lived here for some time, there is always a new way to see the city. View tours or make a reservation by emailing barriobird@gmail.com or calling 8926-9867

Downtown Architecture & Urban Planning Update

There are several new and exciting developments to report on downtown. 


Outside Complete: I wrote a few months ago about the building that is across the from La Marinita. The outside is basically complete. This building now really stands out as a must see in downtown. Plans for the building aren't firm, but a possible bar/restaurant might open on the bottom with some residential space on top. 

New Paint: The Girl's School on Ave. 4 has been undergoing much renovation and it appears a new paint job will soon be under way.  This particular corner boasts one of my favorite views in the city on a clear day. You can look down at Iglesia de la Soledad and get beautiful mountain views in all directions. 

Ugly Fence: This historic home sits on Ave. 7. Almost 100 years old, it is of Victorian influence and was built by a Spanish merchant. It's architecture represents much of what was found throughout Barrio Amon in the early 20th century. Unfortunately, a taller gate has been added with razor wire on top for security, really detracting from the original beauty of the home. We'll see what else develops at this home. 

325 New Trees!! I also previously wrote about Barrio Escalante's new Urban Plan. A first step towards completing this plan was the planting of 325 new trees throughout the neighborhood. A variety of species were added to serve as homes to birds and butterflies, provide a variety of color with different blossoms, and to hopefully create the first carbon neutral neighborhood in the country. Is there a carbon neutral neighborhood in your country?? The species of trees planted include; palo verde, árbol de fuego, cortés negro, choreque, roble sabana, guachipelín, dama, manzanita y palmera real. I can't wait to take a new stroll through this neighborhood. Maybe we'll do a plant/architecture tour!

Barrio Bird offers walking tours of San Jose. If you are a visitor or have lived here for some time, there is always a new way to see the city. View tours or make a reservation by emailing barriobird@gmail.com or calling 8926-9867

Community Service in San Jose, Costa Rica

There are a number of ways visitors and expats alike can give back while they are in Costa Rica. Below are some of the organizations I trust and support. 

The Women's Club of Costa Rica: This organization just celebrated its 70th anniversary. Their motto is 'Friendship through Service', and they mean it. The WCCR focuses on raising funds to build school libraries around Costa Rica, and offer scholarships for highschool students to cover expenses in college. Not only does this group play a large role in service, it is also comprised of women from all over the world who have been leaders in their industries, or who are now actively growing new businesses. A great place to find female mentorship and partnership. 

Gracias Costa Rica: Gracias Costa Rica is in the middle of growing and expanding services, but it is a great resource if you are unsure of where to take old clothing, leave behind travel goods, or specify donations to a non-profit without having to go through the donation process in Spanish. Their primary goal is to get your donations where you want them. Check in as this organization grows. Here is what is immediately needed.

Blood Donations: As in many other countries, there is usually a shortage of blood donations available in Costa Rica. Those that are eligible to donate, or thinking of giving for the first time have many options in the metro area. The main blood bank of La Caja is located in Zapote at the southern corner of the church. Donors can also go to any hospital to make a donation, and in outer lying areas one can usually walk into a red cross without an appointment to give.

Movie, Art, Music & Theater This Week - San Jose, Costa Rica

Something for everyday, free and almost free!


Free Screening Italian Film - Barrio Escalante, Costa Rica: Monday showcases at the Spanish Cultural Center Y LA NAVE VA directed by Federico Fellini in 1983 will begin at 7 p.m. 

Contemporary Art Museum Opening - San Jose, Costa Rica: Tuesday gives us a new art opening at MADC, Esteban Piedra León. Estudios (2002-2010). Overall exhibition is an assembly of the artist's common themes throughout his work; fundamental elements for agitation and questioning. Room I: Architecture for unuseful, non fertile bodies Room II: Defined, permanent & concave Room III: No, no one else either. This museum is located in the beautiful Old FANAL (old guaro distillary) and the site alone is worth a visit. Opening is at 7 p.m. Runs thru July 13. 


Mozart at the French Alliance - Barrio Amon, Costa Rica: Wed. will offer a free recital by members of  the University of Costa Rica's Orchestra. Performing what some call Mozart's greatest work and written for his wedding, la Gran Serenata para Vientos K361. Begins at 7:30. I recommend an early arrival as this space is an old house and it will probably overfill. Parking is a half block east of the alliance.


Afternoon Guitar Quartet at National Theater: The quartet will be performing a set of songs written in 1886, Spain on Thurs. This is an affordable opportunity to see the theater at only 1,000 colones. 5 - 6 p.m. Admission might be more for non-residents. 


Opening Glenngarry Glenn Ross - Sala Garbo: The Little Theatre Group of Costa Rica opens this Fri. with the real estate scandal show, Glenngarry Glenn Ross. A topic many can relate to in Costa Rica, this one promises to throw a few curve balls. Starts at 7:30, adult language, 4,500 colones. Reserve online. 

French & Argentine Food in San Jose, Costa Rica

Barrio Amon in San Jose, Costa Rica is boasting 2 new restaurants, growing international cuisine options for visitors & locals alike. 


Arte y Gusto Cafe opened a few months ago and is definitely among the top 5 in the city for ambiance. Old pieces of driftwood, a fountain, soft lighting and purple hues gives this downtown gem an 'earthy, deserted night on the beach with a lover sharing a bottle of wine' feel. 


The owners bring their culinary skills from southern france, creating a menu with french influenced preparations of meat, fish, soups and salads. A nice variety of imported wines and beers are available. My personal recommendation is to try this place for lunch. They offer a 3,300 c executive plate that typically includes a starter, main dish with a side, a dessert and a fresh juice. Because the food is so good I consider this the best lunch deal in town, and a downright steal! Cash only. 12 - 10 M - F, 6 - 10 Sat. closed Sun.


Pachamama has moved directly west of the Holiday Inn and offers some classic Argentine dishes. The atmosphere is quaint and they've done their best to work with glaring white walls. The owner is very sweet however. I have yet to eat at this location but I am stoked about the milonesa and hope their empanadas are authentic to Argentina and not the overly greasy, overly doughy, lacking meat empanadas that abound in Costa Rica. Prices are between 1,000 - 5,000 c. Accept credit cards and have wi-fi. 

Guitars, Flutes, Earth Day Rally today in San Jose, Costa Rica

Guitars: The 3rd annual guitar festival at University Veritas starts today and runs through April 25th, every night at 7 p.m. inside the Auditoria Roberto Sasso Sasso. Tickets are 4,000 c general, 3,000 c students, 5,000 c closing show. Thurs. is classical, Fri. is Flamenco & Latin Jazz, Sat. is classical and world, Sun. is Latin.


Flutes: The 6th International Festival of Flutists continues today at 5 p.m. Flutists from 7 different countries will be performing Thurs., and Fri. at 5 p.m. in the foyer of the National Theater. These shows are 1,000 c. a nice price to see a show in Costa Rica's most beloved theater. Get your ticket early. You will not be let in after the show starts.


Earth Day: For those of you who don't know. Mining in Las Crucitas, Costa Rica is about to begin. A protest event, nicely timed with Earth Day, will take place all day today. Concerts, speakers, and nature lovers will surely pack the day's agenda. This is happening in front of the Superior Courts. If you've been wanting to get more involved with environmental groups, today is probably a good day to start.

Festivals: Video, Orchids, Queens & Guitars --San Jose, Costa Rica

San Jose is Queen (seriously, there is queen's fun included) of festivals this time of year. These festivals are either free or relatively low cost and fun for families, dates, or relaxing after fun at the beach. Enjoy!


Festival de Video Joven La 240. This free festival began on Sunday and runs all week showing video shorts by central american youth in the open-air theater at CENAC (old Fanal). 60 works will be shown today thru Fri. at 7 p.m. and the festival will end Saturday with an awards ceremony at El Lobo Estepario, which is a bar themed after a movie theater and one of my downtown favorites. 


National Orchid Expo. Love orchids and great urban architecture? Visit the National Orchid Expo this weekend inside the newly opened, Old Aduana this 16th - 18th. Hours are Fri. and Sat. 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission is 2,000 c general and 1,000 c old folks and kids--celebrate those discounts!


The Queen's Rock 'n' Roll Birthday Party. While not downtown, we can't pass up a rock n roll party for the Queen of England (and several other places) at the British Ambassador's residence, just north of Plaza Los Laureles in Escazu. All sorts of British food and drinks will be served as well as raffles for air travel and resort stays. Prizes for best costume. Sat. April 17, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Proceeds to benefit local schools in need. 2,500 c is general admission at the gate, under 12 1,000 c. Looking forward to rocking purple nail polish at this one. 


Guitar Festival. The 3rd annual guitar festival at University Veritas will be this coming April 22nd - 25th every night at 7 p.m. inside the Auditoria Roberto Sasso Sasso. Tickets are 4,000 c general, 3,000 c students, 5,000 c closing show. Thurs. is classical, Fri. is Flamenco & Latin Jazz, Sat. is classical and world, Sun. is Latin. 

April 8, Art Openings -- Great Energy in San Jose

International and Costa Rican artists were out in full force last night amongst several exhibit openings. Barrio Bird first took a look at Efraín Méndez's (Costa Rica) 'Quimera' at the French Alliance. Consisting of 8 acyrlic pieces, Mendez explores fantasy, best displayed through children's games. View until the 22nd of April. 


Second stop was to see Ralph Jarvis's (Canadian) work on display at the Sophia Wanamaker Gallery in the Costa Rica-North American Cultural Center. Jarvis's work feature a technique new to me and many others, and is any man's dream---Blow torching. Jarvis focused on nature found between Newfoundland and Costa Rica, with some Peruvian materials throughout. On display until May 3. 


Our final gallery stop was to the Jacob Karpio Gallery. The space is large and full of work from John Juric(Costa Rica) who appears to work with several media and focuses on paint, installations and murals. I really get a creepy vibe from Mr. Karpio, but he put together a great party, with great pieces from this artist. The music was outstanding and I'll be looking to see this artist's work, and the band again. And maybe overtime I'll get to know Mr. Karpio's uncreepy side. 


A great, free way to catch all of these exhibits is to come out for the next Art City Tour, Wed. April, 21. Follow GAM for details. 

Semana Santa Procession to Calvary

These are some photos from today's procession downtown. There will be more of these around the country tomorrow and Sunday as well if you are looking for an 'authentic' Costa Rican experience. 

Barrio Bird loves Bird Art in San Jose, Costa Rica

I was very excited to open the paper this morning and see my friend & artist, Esteban Gomez. His first exhibit showcases his work on the topic of nature, specifically BIRDS! Please take the opportunity to see his work and if you want to speak the artist first-hand I'm sure I can facilitate.

English Speaking Theater in San Jose, Costa Rica

! Opening night is finally here!

In addition to running tours, I've also reconnected with the stage. I am playing Frances in 'No sex please, we're British'. It has been rewarding to work with a team and be accountable to a project bigger than any one of us.

It's a special opportunity to participate in English-speaking theater in Costa Rica of all places. There truly is a thriving arts community here, both local and expat. If you enjoy theater check these groups out for regular performances here in San Jose, Costa Rica. Hope to see you at one of my shows.

• No Sex Please We're British
• The Little Theater Group
• Compania Nacional de Teatro
• Teatro Popular Melico Salazar
• Complete theater listing

Art City Tour in San Jose Costa Rica

The first art gallery tour of 2010 happened last night. It was pretty good but 2 hours was not enough time to visit all of the places.

This photo is from the Museo de Arte y Diseno Contemporaneo. The exhibit was Migracion al Sur. The pieces dealt with emotion, ideas, and concepts that pass when we relocate ourselves.

I was also able to visit the National Museum and Jacob Karpio Gallery for the first time. They were both nice enough, but I don't think I need to return to the national museum. You can check out all photos from the night on our Facebook page.

Moving forward in San Jose, Costa Rica

San Jose, Costa Rica is exciting to me. Right now in 2010 there are a number of things happening to enrich the culture and pleasantness of the city.

• Barrio Escalante Urban Plan
• More fine dining restaurants/bars such as: Bar Morazan, El Steinvorth, Arte y Gusto Cafe, Kalu, and Wok and Noodles
• Possible new regulations on noise pollution (have seen them testing decible levels, haven't read any news about what will be done with the data)

In addition, galleries are coming together on a more regular basis to bring access to the arts for free or little charge. An example of this is this Wednesday's Art City Tour.

This is just the beginning of what I believe will be a great urban revitalization over the next two years. Follow us on Facebook or Twitter for regular news and event updates.

Drinking in San Jose

While Costa Rica doesn't have a variety of native brews or wines to sample, there are plenty of interesting places to imbibe the cheap drink of your choice. We have put together a dive bar tour to show you the safest hole-in-the-wall bars, right in the middle of the city. Some are the oldest bars in San Jose. It doesn't get more real than this, especially with end of evening karaoke.

Make a reservation for this $10 tour today. Barriobird@gmail.com or (506) 89269867

Safety vs. Enjoyment

One reason I started this business is to give tourists a chance to relax in San Jose, Costa Rica. There are some tough spots you need to know about in order to get around without hassle.

So, taking one of our tours allows you to be more secure and not stop at every corner to look at your map and figure out where you are (there are no addresses in Costa Rica so I promise you will have to pull out a map if you walk alone), or worse yet, end up somewhere you shouldn't be.

Give us a call or email to discuss! barriobird@gmail.com or (506) 89269867.

Who we are

This is me, Stacey, at one of the numerous sites of some amazing graffiti art we see in San Jose, Costa Rica.

Introduction

Hello there, I am Stacey and this is the blog for my company Barrio Bird Walking Tours. We do $10 walking tours of San Jose, Costa Rica.

Over the years, San Jose has earned a bad reputation for tourists. I live in the city, and know that while some parts are rough around the edges, there are many beautiful sites to see.

So, I designed these walking tours to provide the tourists that have to pass through San Jose a chance to see its secret gems. We do a generic culture/history/art/architecture tour. We also do a bar tour. In addition, we can build a custom tour for you.

You can see specific tour info here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Barrio-Bird-Walking-Tours/144658534609

Welcome to Barrio Bird Walking Tours
Stacey