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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.

The Unspoken Dinner Rule in Italian Homes That Leaves Americans Stunned

(And Why It Has Nothing to Do with Table Manners) Spend just one evening inside an Italian household—whether in a buzzing Rome apartment or a quiet countryside villa—and you’ll feel it. Not just the aroma of garlic and rosemary. Not just the hum of conversation or the clinking of forks. But something deeper. Something sacred. …

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20 Things You Should Never Do in Italy (If You Don’t Want to Offend Locals Instantly)

Italy is a dream destination for travelers worldwide, with its Renaissance cities, Mediterranean coastlines, rolling vineyards, and some of the most iconic food on earth. But while millions visit every year, many unknowingly break unspoken cultural rules that locals hold dear. From simple etiquette slip-ups to dining taboos, these mistakes can leave you with awkward …

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Creamy, Rich, and Totally Addictive: The Only Paneer Butter Masala Recipe You’ll Ever Need

Our guide on how to make Paneer Butter Masala for you to try at home. Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Paneer Makhani, is one of the most popular and beloved dishes in Indian cuisine. It’s a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), tomatoes, butter, and cream. This dish …

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Why European Apartments Have This Feature That Americans Rip Out Immediately

And what it reveals about cultural priorities, practicality, and the quiet value of what lasts over what looks new Walk into a newly renovated apartment in Paris, Madrid, Lisbon, or Rome, and you’re likely to find something still intact that would have been the first thing ripped out in an American remodel — the bidet, …

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Why Authentic Açaí Bowls Taste Nothing Like What You Buy in the U.S. (And How to Make the Real Thing at Home)

Açaí has become a global food trend, often spotted in smoothie bars and Instagram feeds across the world. But what most people don’t realize is that the real açaí experience is far removed from the sugary, over-decorated bowls served abroad. In its native Brazil—especially in the Amazon and northern coastal regions—authentic açaí is a staple …

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20 Cities Where You Can Live Large on Less Than $2,000 a Month

In an era where rising housing prices, healthcare costs, and inflation are pushing many Americans to reconsider their financial futures, the dream of living well without breaking the bank is increasingly taking people abroad. Believe it or not, there are still places in the world where $2,000 a month buys you not just a roof …

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10 Most Beautiful Towns in Spain That You Never Heard About

When most travelers think of Spain, places like Barcelona, Madrid, or Seville come to mind. But what if the true beauty of Spain lies far from the crowds, tucked away in ancient cobblestoned towns you’ve never heard of? From whitewashed villages perched on cliffs to medieval towns frozen in time, Spain is home to countless …

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12 Culture Shocks Americans Experience When Visiting Portugal

Portugal has rapidly become one of Europe’s most beloved destinations—for good reason. With its postcard-worthy beaches, charming historic towns, affordable cost of living, and welcoming locals, it’s no wonder travelers from around the world are booking flights to Lisbon, Porto, and beyond. But as dreamy as the Portuguese lifestyle may seem, first-time visitors often find …

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Don’t Do This in Switzerland: 20 Mistakes Tourists Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Switzerland may be known for its breathtaking landscapes, precision watches, and rich chocolate, but it’s also a country with deeply ingrained cultural norms and social expectations. For first-time visitors, the country’s strict adherence to rules, punctuality, and understated lifestyle can come as a surprise — and sometimes lead to awkward mistakes. What might be considered …

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9 Office Customs in Europe That Would Get Americans Fired

(And Why They Actually Make Work Life More Human) Picture this: it’s 9:45 a.m. in a small office in Spain. A few employees have just arrived. Someone’s making coffee. A couple coworkers are chatting—loudly—about weekend plans. No one’s panicking about being late, and no one is pretending to be busy. Eventually, people settle into their …

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Forget Iceland: 10 Underrated Scandinavian Destinations That Are Just As Epic (And Way Less Crowded)

For years, Iceland has captured the imaginations of travelers with its waterfalls, lava fields, black sand beaches, and northern lights. But with rising tourist numbers, surging prices, and Instagram-fueled crowds, Iceland’s once-untouched magic is becoming increasingly difficult to enjoy authentically. What many don’t realize is that Scandinavia holds countless other destinations that rival — and …

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