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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.

Is Flying for Dental Care Worth It? Colombia Case Study: Why Americans Are Flying to Colombia for Dental Work

Want to understand dental tourism in Colombia more? Let’s learn more in this guide. Dental tourism in Colombia has become popular in recent years because of its expertise and pricing, especially with Colombia’s proximity to the US. Dental tourism, the practice of traveling to another country for affordable dental care, has grown in popularity over …

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Before You Visit Europe: 17 Things You Should Stop Doing

Moving to or spending extended time in Europe can feel like stepping into a slightly parallel universe similar enough to feel familiar, but filled with subtle cultural differences that often catch Americans off guard. It’s not just the language or the metric system that throws people off. It’s the daily norms, behaviors, and expectations that …

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The Check-In Phrase That Changes Your Stay Instantly That Gets You Free Upgrades and Americans Never Think to Ask

So here is the simple thing that keeps working in France. You do not beg for an upgrade. You do not wave a loyalty number from a different galaxy. You ask for a calmer room at the same rate and you make it absurdly easy for the receptionist to say yes. Nine times out of …

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Why Ginjinha Is Portugal’s Most Addictive Little Drink: The Sweet Portuguese Liqueur Everyone Falls For

If there’s one drink that instantly immerses you in Portuguese culture, it’s Ginjinha. This ruby-red sour cherry liqueur is an iconic Lisbon staple, served in tiny shot glasses at neighborhood bars and historic ginjinha shops. Sweet, tart, and slightly warming with hints of cinnamon and deep cherry richness, ginjinha is both an after-meal digestif and …

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Notarios, Gestores, Lawyers: The People Americans Don’t Know They Need

Americans arrive in Spain with a very American plan: do the paperwork, sign the thing, open the account, move on. Then Spain introduces three characters you didn’t grow up understanding: And the confusing part is that all three can look like “someone who helps with documents.” So people pick randomly, usually based on who answers …

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We Budgeted €1,800/Month for Spain. Actual Cost: €2,900: Here’s Why

€1,800 a month in Spain sounds reasonable on paper. It’s the number people throw around when they’re trying to calm themselves down. Rent will be cheaper. Groceries will be cheaper. Healthcare will be cheaper. Public transport will be cheaper. Life will be simpler. Then you live here for real, not as a tourist, not as …

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Why Chiles Rellenos Deserve More Love Than Tacos: The Stuffed Pepper Dish That Defines Mexican Home Cooking

Chiles Rellenos stuffed poblano peppers wrapped in a delicate egg batter and fried to golden perfection are one of Mexico’s most beloved traditional dishes. They offer a beautiful balance of smoky, savory, and creamy flavors that showcase the heart of Mexican home cooking. Whether filled with cheese, seasoned meat, or vegetables, Chiles Rellenos are a …

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What Happens When You Need an Ambulance in Europe

Most Americans picture two extremes. Either Europe is a healthcare utopia where an ambulance shows up like a public service fairy, no bill, no questions. Or it’s a bureaucratic maze where you’ll be asked for a passport, a credit card, and your blood type before anyone lifts a finger. Real life is more boring, and …

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Your New Favorite Weeknight Mac and Cheese: This Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe Is So Creamy and Cheesy

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, loved for its creamy, cheesy goodness and nostalgic warmth. While boxed versions are quick and convenient, homemade mac and cheese takes this classic dish to a whole new level. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of care, you can create a rich, velvety sauce …

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The European Water Habit I Tried for 30 Days: Skin Cleared Up

If you grew up in an American hydration culture, you probably learned water in one of two ways. Either it was a vague wellness slogan, usually attached to a giant plastic bottle and a person who talks about “toxins.” Or it was something you remembered only after your third coffee and your first headache. The …

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