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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.

45 Days Without American Restaurant Food Changed My Health

This was not a cleanse or a moral performance. I simply quit chain-restaurant food for 45 days, cooked Mediterranean in my small Spanish kitchen, and kept receipts and numbers. By day 38 I was off three long term meds with my doctor’s sign off, lighter by 16.4 pounds, and sleeping like a sane person. The …

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7 French Meals That Make Cheap Ingredients Feel Luxurious

At first glance, French cuisine can seem all about foie gras and fancy sauces, but everyday French families often cook simple, wallet-friendly meals. From hearty soups to veggie-packed one-pans, here are 7 classic recipes that prove you don’t need to be a Michelin-star chef or spend a fortune to eat like a local in France. …

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Why Bifanas Beat Every Tourist Sandwich in Portugal

Bifanas are one of Portugal’s most iconic street foods, featuring thin slices of pork marinated in garlic, white wine, and spices, then cooked until tender and served in a fresh crusty roll. This simple yet flavourful sandwich is deeply rooted in Portuguese culinary tradition, often enjoyed at local festivals, football matches, or as a quick …

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The 15-Minute Beef and Broccoli That Beats Takeout

Beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic Asian-inspired dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli florets, all tossed in a savoury and slightly sweet sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying homemade meal without spending hours …

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Why Eating Bread Like an Italian Helped Me Lose Weight

I changed the bread, not my personality. For 30 days I ate like the nonnas taught the neighborhood: bread with real meals, never as entertainment, fermented dough with flavor, portions that look small until you chew them, and leftovers turned into tomorrow’s lunch. I did not start running. I did not count anything. I kept …

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The Moroccan Soup You’ll Crave on Cold Nights

Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its comforting flavours, aromatic spices, and nourishing dishes that warm the soul. One of Morocco’s most beloved traditional recipes is Harira soup, a hearty tomato-based soup enriched with lentils, chickpeas, and fresh herbs. In this recipe guide, you will learn how to make authentic Harira soup at home, allowing you …

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Why European Couples Don’t Say These 3 Words (And Why Americans Might Be Getting Romance All Wrong)

And What It Reveals About Love, Language, and Intimacy Without Performance In American culture, love is something you say.Out loud. Often. Dramatically. “I love you.”“You complete me.”“I can’t live without you.” It’s a language of reassurance, repetition, and emotional volume. Even casual couples are expected to affirm their feelings early and often. In public. Online. …

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10 Japanese Dinners Everyone Should Know How to Make

Japanese cuisine is often celebrated for its delicate flavors, seasonal ingredients, and attention to presentation. While sushi and ramen tend to steal the spotlight abroad, everyday Japanese dinners offer a variety of dishes that are comforting, nourishing, and deeply rooted in tradition. From simmered stews to sizzling grilled meats, Japanese dinner fare blends simplicity with …

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The Packing Mistakes Almost Everyone Still Makes

Packing for a trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re heading to a bustling city in Europe, a beach retreat in Southeast Asia, or a hiking adventure in South America, knowing what not to pack is just as important as knowing what to bring. Overpacking, bringing the wrong clothes, or traveling with unnecessary …

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15 Things That Surprise Americans the Most in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has become a favorite destination for American travelers and expats seeking sunshine, nature, and the laid-back charm of “Pura Vida.” But while the tropical beaches and rainforest adventures deliver on expectations, many Americans experience unexpected cultural shifts upon arrival. From time management to personal space, and from road etiquette to dining customs, Costa …

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60 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Mexico (First-Time Travelers Read This)

We will tell you about Mexico travel tips and all the cool facts about Mexico and things to know before visiting Mexico for first-timers. This post will be your go-to guide to get to know more of Mexico and what awaits you from amazing beaches, beautiful landscapes and Natural Parks, Festivals to delicious food to try …

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Why Midwesterners Have the Hardest Time in French Restaurants and The Politeness That Backfires

A certain kind of American politeness works almost everywhere in the U.S. It’s warm, eager, accommodating, and built to smooth friction before it starts. In a French restaurant, that same politeness can land as pushy, needy, or oddly performative. Not because French diners are cruel. Because the system is calibrated differently. Midwesterners get singled out …

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