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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 Portuguese Pastéis Don’t Cause the Sugar Spiral American Donuts Do

You order a coffee in Lisbon, a pastel arrives still warm, the pastry shatters, the custard hums, and five bites later you feel finished rather than hunting for a second box. Walk into an American office on a Friday and you meet a dozen donuts in a glossy box, half of them frosted and filled. …

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The Puerto Rican Breakfast You’ve Been Missing: What Locals Really Eat (Plus Easy Recipes)

Puerto Rico, known as the “Island of Enchantment,” is a testament to a mesmerizing blend of Taíno, Spanish, African, and American cultures, culminating in a unique and diverse culinary tradition. Delving into its breakfast culture offers an intimate glimpse into the island’s vibrant soul. From savory scrambles to sweet pastries, Puerto Rico‘s morning gastronomy is …

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12 Best Places to Visit Along the Spain–Portugal Border You Can’t Miss

The borderlands between Spain and Portugal are some of the most underrated regions in Europe. While most travelers flock to Madrid, Lisbon, or Barcelona, the hidden gems that lie along the frontier tell a story of shared history, cultural fusion, and breathtaking landscapes. Exploring this area offers a chance to experience two distinct cultures while …

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The 10 Biggest Myths About Europe Americans Can’t Seem to Shake

From quaint stereotypes about constant café culture to blanket assumptions about language skills, Europe often lives in the American imagination as a monolith of historical castles and fancy accents. But reality is a bit more nuanced—and many locals chuckle at (or sometimes bristle against) the clichés that persist. Below, we tackle 10 widespread American myths …

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Forget Prague: 13 Stunning European Cities You Should Visit Instead

Prague often dominates European travel lists, and for good reason—it’s stunning, historic, and vibrant. But its popularity has also made it crowded, expensive, and at times less authentic than many travelers hope. For those looking to experience Europe in a more unique way, there are countless destinations that offer the same charm without the overwhelming …

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15 Worst Walkable Cities in the World (You Won’t Believe #7)

Walking is one of the simplest ways to explore a city, but not every destination makes it easy. Some cities are designed with cars in mind, leaving pedestrians to navigate unsafe streets, poor infrastructure, or overwhelming traffic. While a lack of walkability doesn’t always mean a city isn’t worth visiting, it does make getting around …

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The Bathroom Habit Europeans Swear By That Still Disgusts Most Americans

And why bidets are standard across Europe, but still taboo in the United States Walk into a bathroom in France, Italy, Portugal, or Spain, and you’ll likely notice an object that makes American guests uncomfortable. It’s not broken. It’s not dirty. It’s not even that complicated. It’s just a bidet. Low to the ground, shaped …

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Why Spanish Landlords Require Six Months Upfront From Americans Only

You found the perfect flat in Madrid, sent your documents, and the agent replied with a number that made your jaw drop: six months upfront. You are not a scammer. You have savings. So why this demand, and why does it seem to happen to Americans? Walk any Spanish rental market and you will hear …

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What Spanish Beach Culture Teaches You About Body Confidence (That Americans Rarely Learn)

When you think of Spain, what comes to mind? Maybe the scent of paella wafting through seaside cafés, the hypnotic rhythm of flamenco, or the warm golden glow of the Mediterranean coast. But if you’ve ever spent a day on a Spanish beach — from Barcelona to Cádiz — you’ll encounter something even more vivid: …

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The Singaporean Breakfast That Outsiders Don’t Understand — But Locals Swear By Daily

Kaya Toast with Soft-Boiled Eggs is a classic Singaporean breakfast, combining the rich, sweet flavors of kaya (coconut jam) with buttered toast and soft-boiled eggs seasoned with soy sauce and white pepper. It’s a delicious and satisfying way to start the day. In a city bursting with culinary diversity, Singapore’s most iconic breakfast is surprisingly …

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What Surprises Americans Most in Thailand: 10 Culture Shocks You’ll Never Forget

Our guide on the Culture Shocks for Americans in Thailand for your next trip. Traveling to Thailand is an exciting experience filled with vibrant street markets, beautiful temples, exotic food, and warm hospitality. However, as an American visiting this Southeast Asian country, you may encounter some culture shocks due to the differences in customs, social …

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The Forgotten Meat Cut Italians Love And Americans Waste

And what it reveals about tradition, resourcefulness, and the taste that lives between the bones Wander into a butcher shop in Tuscany, Puglia, or Emilia-Romagna, and you’ll hear terms that don’t appear in American meat counters. Names like “guancia,” “coda,” or “coratella” — cuts and organs that American consumers have either forgotten or never learned …

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