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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 Mediterranean Women Never Wash Their Hair Like Americans (And What You’re Doing Wrong)

(And How It Affects Hair Health More Than You Think) If you have ever admired the thick, shiny, effortlessly healthy hair of people from the Mediterranean, you are not alone. From the glossy dark waves of southern Italy to the soft, sun-kissed curls of coastal Greece, there is something unmistakably vibrant about Mediterranean hair. It …

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15 European Travel Truths Every American Misses (Until It’s Too Late)

Traveling to Europe may seem as easy as booking a flight and packing a passport, but the cultural differences between the U.S. and Europe can leave American tourists confused, frustrated, or unintentionally offensive. While guidebooks cover sightseeing and language basics, few explain the subtle habits, social rules, and travel logistics that actually shape your experience …

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7 Caribbean Tourist Traps That Locals Warn You About (And Where to Go Instead)

The Caribbean is synonymous with turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and easy-breezy island living. But for many travelers, the dreamy escape quickly turns into a costly disappointment—thanks to overpriced attractions, staged experiences, and resorts that promise paradise but deliver the bare minimum. Tourist traps are everywhere, especially in the most postcard-worthy places. From “authentic” cultural shows …

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Don’t Fall For These 9 European Customs – They’re Total Tourist Traps

From the gondola ride “locals never use” to “authentic” flamenco shows only tourists attend, Europe is teeming with customs that appear ancient or tradition-bound—yet in reality, they’re orchestrated for your wallet. Below are 9 big offenders and how to avoid falling for them in your next Euro trip. Travelling to Europe is a dream for …

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The Monthly Budget Italians Live On That Americans Spend on Coffee

And what it reveals about daily cost, value culture, and why one society stretches euros into lifestyle while the other dissolves dollars into habit In the United States, small daily expenses often go unnoticed. A morning coffee run, a midweek takeout order, a streaming subscription, a few forgotten fees. None of it feels indulgent. It …

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Why Mediterranean Mental Health Days Look Nothing Like America’s “Self-Care” Culture

(And Why Their Approach Might Actually Prevent Burnout Entirely) In the United States, a “mental health day” is often code for emotional triage. It usually means someone has reached the edge of exhaustion. After weeks of pushing through, they finally decide to take a day off to recover—but it’s often too little, too late. Some …

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9 “Luxury” Items in the U.S. That Europeans Think Are Basic Rights

Why Bother Looking at “Luxury” vs. “Basic”? Cultural differences often manifest in subtle ways—like how Americans and Europeans view certain goods and services. Sometimes, what’s deemed a big splurge or “premium perk” in the U.S. is entirely normal or even legally mandated across the Atlantic. These discrepancies aren’t about which side is “better,” but they …

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11 Rookie Mistakes That Can Wreck Your European Work Trip (And How Smart Travelers Avoid Them)

Heading to Europe for a conference, client meeting, or company event? Between the allure of historic architecture and that tempting local cuisine, it’s easy to forget you’re there to get work done. Even seasoned travelers stumble on cultural quirks, logistics snags, and social missteps that can derail productivity (and your reputation). Below are the 11 …

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Can You Really Live in Rome on €2,000 a Month? The Honest Truth About Life in the Eternal City

Ciao, friend! So, you’re dreaming of living in the Eternal City on a 2,000 euro budget? Well, grab a cappuccino, and let’s chat about how you can make Rome your home without emptying your wallet. From finding that perfect apartment to savoring authentic Italian gelato, I’ve got the insider tips to help you live la …

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22 Scandinavian Habits Tourists Misread (And Why Locals Think You’re Rude)

Scandinavia—home to breathtaking fjords, impeccable design, and some of the world’s happiest people. But behind the serene landscapes and efficient public transit lie a set of unspoken social rules that can leave tourists bewildered. Whether you’re in Norway, Sweden, or Denmark, what seems like aloofness or odd formality may actually be deep-rooted cultural norms passed …

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10 Hidden Spanish Destinations Locals Love (But Tourists Never Discover)

Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world, yet most tourists follow the same well-worn path: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, maybe Granada. But what if the true essence of Spain isn’t found in the guidebook? Beyond the postcard cities lie secret corners, preserved by locals and cherished for their authenticity, silence, and soul. …

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9 Cheap Things Europeans Won’t Compromise On (That Americans Always Do)

(Because Quality Isn’t a Luxury—It’s a Baseline) If you were raised in the U.S., chances are you’ve been taught to love a deal. The logic is simple: Why pay more if you don’t have to? Why buy one well-made item when you could get five for the same price? But cross the Atlantic and that …

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