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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 Health Approach Europeans Take That Would Terrify American Medical Insurance

And what it reveals about trust, frequency, and why one system waits while the other walks in early and unannounced In much of Europe, people walk into clinics without an appointment. They describe vague symptoms without fear of being billed by the minute. They see the same doctor for years. They don’t justify the visit. …

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Why Italian People Start Their Days Without Things Americans Consider Essential

And what it reveals about daily rhythm, cultural assumptions, and how one society runs on emptiness while the other runs on preparation In the United States, mornings are built on foundations: a full breakfast, a to-do list, gym clothes, a motivational podcast, a 32-ounce water bottle. The American start to the day is structured, caffeinated, …

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The Airbnb Damage Claim Complaints That Triggered Alarm Bells for U.S. Guests in Europe

And what it reveals about liability gaps, digital evidence risks, and why one unlucky claim can erode trust faster than any lost deposit A handful of Airbnb guests in Europe have started speaking up—loudly. They describe being hit with unexpected damage claims, often days after checkout. The dollar amounts range from €50 to over €2,000. …

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9 European Morning Habits That Would End American Optimization Obsession

And what it reveals about slowness, self-trust, and why one culture wakes up ready while the other wakes up already behind In the U.S., mornings are a performance. You win them or lose them. You get ahead or fall behind. There’s a product for every minute: protein powders, time-blocking apps, smart alarm clocks, gratitude journals, …

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Stop Screaming ‘Tourist’: 15 Ways to Blend in Like a Local in Italy (No Cargo Shorts Required)

Traveling to Italy is a dream for many, but standing out as a tourist can ruin the experience and even invite pickpockets or overpricing. From the way you dress to how you order coffee, Italians can spot outsiders a mile away—and they usually do. Looking like a tourist not only distances you from authentic cultural …

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Skip Barcelona: These 7 Spanish Cities Are More Authentic (And Way Less Crowded)

Barcelona has long been the darling of international travelers, and it’s easy to see why—stunning architecture, beachside vibes, world-class food. But beneath the tourist-heavy surface lies a growing tension between visitors and locals, skyrocketing prices, and an experience that feels increasingly curated. If you’re looking to uncover the real soul of Spain, it’s time to …

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7 Hand Gestures That Make You Look Rude in Southern Europe (Even If You Don’t Mean To)

(And Why One Casual Wave Can Send the Wrong Message Entirely) Southern Europe is known for its warmth, its hospitality, and its expressive body language. But that expressiveness comes with rules. In Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece, your hands say as much as your words—and sometimes more. The problem is that many American and Northern …

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15 Foods That Taste Way Better Outside the U.S. (And Americans Secretly Know It)

You might think a croissant is just a croissant, or that coffee is the same everywhere—but anyone who’s traveled abroad knows that’s simply not true. There’s something about enjoying food in its country of origin that elevates every bite. Whether it’s the freshness of the ingredients, the centuries of tradition, or just the cultural appreciation …

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Why Italian Parents Punish Children in Ways Americans Would Call Abusive

And what it reveals about discipline, cultural thresholds, and why one society calls it structure while another calls it trauma In Italy, discipline is not a private matter. Children are corrected loudly, often in public, and without apology. A raised voice in the supermarket, a sharp slap on the wrist, a lecture mid-street—these are not …

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10 Mediterranean Cities You Need to Visit This Year (Before Everyone Else Does)

Imagine waking up to waves gently crashing against a sun-kissed shore, with a day full of exploration, delicious food, and rich history ahead of you. This dream can become a reality in the best Mediterranean cities to visit – where every town offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every type of traveler. …

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The Brilliant Japanese Bathroom Feature That Americans Still Don’t Understand

(And How It Completely Changes Daily Life) For most Americans, the bathroom is a purely functional space: a place to shower, brush your teeth, and move on. It is built for efficiency, not experience. Privacy is valued, but beyond that, there is little ceremony. In Japan, bathrooms are treated entirely differently. They are spaces of …

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9 Unspoken Conversation Rules Europeans Swear By (But Tourists Don’t Know)

Why Bother Understanding These Rules? If you’ve ever struck up a conversation in Europe and gotten a blank stare, an awkward pause, or a subtle eyebrow raise, chances are you’ve tripped over one of the continent’s many unspoken social rules. No one will tell you you’ve done something wrong—but the vibe shift will say it …

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