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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.

3 Classic Scandinavian Recipes That Define Nordic Cooking

Scandinavian cuisine has been gaining global attention for its focus on simplicity, fresh ingredients, and deep ties to tradition. Rooted in the rugged landscapes of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, these dishes reflect centuries of survival, community, and creativity in a climate where resources were once scarce. While Scandinavian food might not be as widely celebrated …

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Why Portuguese Sardine Breakfast Beats $40 Omega-3 Supplements — Recipe

The pan goes on first, not the coffee. Two tins of Portuguese sardines hit warm olive oil, lemon wakes up the room, and toasted country bread plays lifeguard for all that briny, silky sauce. By the time your mug is full, you have already done what a $40 bottle of capsules promises and rarely delivers: …

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Portuguese Banking vs US Banking: The €2,400 Annual Difference

At a café table in Porto, an American couple opens two banking apps side by side. One app treats every transfer like a small event with fees and FX surprises. The other quietly moves money, pays bills, and taps into a citywide ATM network without drama. By the end of the year, the difference is …

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Why American Retirees Choose Porto Over Lisbon

Two retirees step off the train at Campanhã, roll their bags down to Bolhão, and decide by lunchtime: this is the pace they want. Fewer crowds than the capital, ocean light in the afternoons, and a city that still feels small enough to learn by foot. They had spent a week in Lisbon first. It …

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The Italian Hand Gesture That Can Get You Arrested

You are inching through Roman traffic, a scooter cuts you off, and your hand shoots up before your brain catches up. One gesture later, the carabinieri at the intersection are watching you, not the scooter. In Italy, certain hand signs are not just rude. In the wrong context, they are crimes. Italy does not criminalize …

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15 Cheapest Countries to Travel in 2025 (That Still Feel Like Luxury)

Travel doesn’t have to drain your savings account, and in 2025, some of the most exciting destinations around the world are also the most affordable. From Southeast Asia’s vibrant street food stalls to Eastern Europe’s historic towns, budget-conscious travelers can enjoy incredible adventures without sacrificing comfort. The secret lies in knowing where your dollar, euro, …

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Why Malaysians Can’t Live Without Nasi Lemak—And How to Cook It at Home

Nasi lemak, often referred to as Malaysia’s national dish, is a flavorful, aromatic, and deeply satisfying meal that showcases the country’s rich culinary heritage. Translating to “rich rice” in Malay, nasi lemak features fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves, traditionally served with a spicy sambal (chili paste), crispy anchovies, roasted peanuts, cucumber …

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The Creamiest Butternut Squash Soup You’ll Ever Make — A Cozy Classic Done Right

Creamy butternut squash soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days, combining velvety texture with sweet, earthy flavors that instantly warm you from the inside out. This golden soup is a staple in fall and winter kitchens, perfect for using up seasonal squash and creating a nourishing meal with minimal effort. Its natural sweetness …

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The Bathroom Crisis Spaniards Handle Calmly—But Leaves Americans in Total Panic

And what it reveals about trust, patience, and a national ability to solve problems without overreacting There are many small things that separate everyday Spanish life from the fast-paced, convenience-driven rhythm of the United States. Shops that close for lunch. Dinner that starts at 10 p.m. A total absence of dryers or garbage disposals. But …

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15 Overrated European Destinations (And Where You Should Go Instead)

Europe is filled with stunning destinations that attract millions of tourists every year. From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to Santorini’s cliffside views, these iconic places have been photographed countless times. However, many of these popular spots are now overcrowded, overpriced, and often fail to deliver the dreamy travel experience people expect. For travellers seeking …

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The WhatsApp Messages That Mark You As American Immediately

You drop into a new group chat for a pickup football game in Madrid. You say “Hey guys!” with three exclamation points, ask if 7 PM works on 10/12, and suggest people “Venmo” you for the pitch. Half the room goes quiet. The other half asks what “Venmo” is. You just introduced yourself without meaning …

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The Classic French Crepe Recipe That Works for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dessert

Crepes are one of France’s most versatile culinary treasures, beloved for their thin, delicate texture and endless possibilities. Unlike pancakes, crepes are light, airy, and adaptable to both sweet and savory flavors, making them the perfect canvas for breakfast, brunch, dinner, or dessert. With origins in Brittany, France, crepes have spread around the world, taking …

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