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Ruben Arribas

About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

Why 80% of American Businesses Fail in Spain, The Legal Trap That Destroys Everything

You can have a great product, a list of warm leads, and a sunny plan for tapas with clients at 14:00, then three quiet words swallow your company by month nine, alta censal correcta. People laugh when I say that. They stop laughing when the first Multa de 300 euros lands for a form they …

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Stop Smiling at Strangers: 13 Spanish Social Rules That Leave Americans Totally Confused

From Two Kisses to Late-Night Dinners: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Spain Spain is known for its warm culture, late-night lifestyle, and deep traditions, but for Americans, navigating the social norms can sometimes be confusing—or downright baffling. Whether you’re traveling, studying abroad, or moving to Spain, understanding these unspoken customs will help you …

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Why This German Hospital Refused You American Insurance, And Can Save You $45,000

You walked into a spotless Klinik with a throbbing appendix and a Blue-something card that once felt like a shield. The admissions clerk smiled, tilted her head, and said the sentence you were not ready for. “Wir rechnen nicht direkt mit US-Versicherungen ab.” Translation, they do not bill American insurers directly, not even the fancy …

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Why Americans Freak Out About Nudity (And Europeans Don’t Blink)

There’s a set of unwritten rules around nudity that change dramatically the further you go from North America. In many parts of Europe, body confidence is practically a default—children swim naked at beaches, mixed-gender saunas are common, and topless sunbathing is accepted on many coasts . Meanwhile, many Americans are reflexively uncomfortable with non-sexual nudity, …

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Italy’s “Golden Visa Closing December 2025” Panic and What’s Real, What’s Rumor, What To Do

You have probably seen the headline twice this week already. “Italy’s Golden Visa closes in December. Only 340 spots left.” I am going to save you some adrenaline right now. Italy’s investor visa is still in force, with the same investment tiers, and no public quota of “340 spots.” What is true is simpler and …

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Why You Must Open a Portuguese Bank Account Before December 31 and The 2026 Lock-Out

People think banking is admin you can do “after the holidays.” Then January arrives, compliance teams hibernate, AIMA’s inbox groans, your rent is due, and some clerk asks for a Portuguese IBAN you cannot provide. By March, the queue is fifty names long and the manager is on training. This is not drama. It is …

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How to Retire Like Royalty on $2,000 a Month: 10 Countries That Make It Possible

Are you considering retirement destinations that combines affordability with a rich cultural tapestry? Imagine living well for under $2,000 a month in cities that offer vibrant culture, excellent healthcare, and a welcoming community. Whether you’re drawn to the serene beaches of Penang, the historic streets of Zagreb, or the bustling markets of Chiang Mai, each …

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These 10 “Mexican” Foods Don’t Exist in Mexico: Here’s What Locals Actually Cook

When you think “Mexican food,” do you picture massive burritos, hard-shell tacos overflowing with lettuce and cheese, or maybe endless nachos smothered in queso? You’re not alone. But ask most people in Mexico, and they’ll tell you those dishes are more Tex-Mex inventions than staples in their kitchens. Here are the top offenders tourists assume …

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The Ultimate Guide to Global Dating: How Travelers Actually Find Romance

Dating while traveling can feel like stepping into a completely different universe—one where conversations flow easier, strangers become friends overnight, and everyday routines dissolve into spontaneous moments. Whether you’re backpacking through Europe, exploring Asia, or taking a solo trip through South America, the mix of new cultures and new people creates a unique space where …

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The Secret Etiquette of Dining in Japan That Tourists Get Wrong

Dining in Japan isn’t just about eating—it’s about participating in a cultural ritual built on respect, awareness, and centuries of tradition. Many travelers assume Japanese dining etiquette is simply about being polite, but the reality is far more nuanced. From how you handle chopsticks to when you speak to the staff, every small action carries …

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The Ultimate Costa Rican Meal Everyone Loves — How to Make Traditional Casado at Home

Costa Rican cuisine is all about balance — vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and wholesome meals designed to nourish and satisfy. At the heart of this culinary tradition is Casado, a beloved dish that’s less of a single recipe and more of a perfectly balanced plate. Featuring rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a protein of choice, …

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The Hidden Menu Items Only Locals Know in Spanish Restaurants

Why This MattersSpain is famous for paella, sangria, and tapas—but real Spanish dining goes way beyond the tourist staples. Many restaurants have off-menu specialties or regional “secret” dishes that locals devour while visitors stick to the standard “menu.” Below are 8 hidden gems that might not appear on English-language menus or big signboards—but locals know …

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