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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 €800 Monthly Rent in Lisbon That Americans Pay $3000 For in Miami

And what it reveals about housing culture, urban design, and why one city treats space as a resource while the other treats it as a prize In Lisbon, it’s still possible to rent a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood for around €800. The space may be old but updated, with high ceilings, ceramic tiles, …

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The Toilet Cleaning Chemical Mix Europeans Use That American Plumbers Say Explodes

And what it reveals about home stewardship, chemical confidence, and why one culture trusts simple solutions while the other outsources for safety In Europe, cleaning the bathroom is a ritual, not a chore. A grandmother in Bavaria might walk into her loo, gather her bottles of vinegar, baking soda, and a few drops of essential …

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The Lung Capacity Test Europeans Pass at 70 That Americans Fail at 40

And what it reveals about breath, movement, and how daily habits shape the quiet strength we don’t think about until it’s gone In the U.S., middle-aged adults often discover their lungs aren’t what they used to be. Maybe it’s during a routine checkup, a hill they can’t climb without gasping, or a moment of surprise …

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The Wedding Gift Amount Europeans Give That American Couples Find Insulting

And what it reveals about economic expectation, social rhythm, and how one culture measures generosity while another judges display In the U.S., wedding gifts often feel like competitive obligation. You receive invitations with “Registry” links listed first, amounts suggested, Venmo handles published. The social norm is clear: guests spend at a fairly high level, framed …

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Why Spanish Restaurants Serve Seafood That American Health Codes Would Condemn

And what it reveals about freshness, culinary trust, and why one culture fears bacteria while the other respects the sea In the U.S., seafood is treated cautiously. Menus feature disclaimers. Health codes are strict. Raw fish must be frozen first, mollusks must be certified, shellfish must come from tightly regulated waters. A single whiff of …

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Why Europeans Examine Their Bowel Movements While Americans Flush Immediately

And what it reveals about digestive awareness, health rhythm, and why one culture treats the gut as a messenger—not a subject to erase In the U.S., the typical restroom visit ends with a flush and an exit. You wipe, you flush, you wash, and you move on. Conversation about digestion is nearly taboo. Most people …

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The Passport Damage That EU Borders Use to Deny American Entry

And what it reveals about documentation, international trust, and why one culture expects leniency while the other enforces the letter of the law In the U.S., a slightly torn passport isn’t usually a cause for panic. Maybe a corner is peeling. Maybe the cover is frayed from years of travel. A page has a small …

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The Nudist Family Activities Germans Do That Would Get Americans Arrested

And what it reveals about embodied freedom, generational trust, and why one culture lets nature breathe through all ages In the U.S., nudity and childhood barely touch. Girls and boys are taught early: clothes are non‑negotiable. Even swimming lessons come with tight rules—caps, one‑piece suits, no topless beaches. Playgrounds never risk accidental exposure. Medical visits …

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Why Italian Doctors Tell Patients to Drink Wine While American Doctors Lose Their License

And what it reveals about trust, tradition, and why European medicine still includes pleasure in its definition of health You’re in a doctor’s office in Florence. It’s late afternoon. The window is open, the shutters half-drawn, and your general practitioner is wrapping up a routine appointment. She’s reviewed your bloodwork, asked how you’re sleeping, and …

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10 Cities Around the World Where You Can Live Comfortably on $2,000 a Month (Yes, Really)

With the rising cost of living in many major cities, finding a place where you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without stretching your budget feels harder than ever. Yet, around the world, there are still vibrant cities where $2,000 a month covers rent, food, transportation, and even a few indulgences — all without sacrificing quality …

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15 Travel Safety Hacks: How to Protect Yourself and Your Valuables Abroad

Traveling the world is one of the most enriching experiences a person can have. But between the adventure and awe, safety should never be an afterthought. Whether you’re backpacking through Southeast Asia or exploring European cities, staying safe while protecting your valuables can make the difference between a dream trip and a travel nightmare. Too …

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The Ultimate Traveler’s Checklist: Things You Should Never Forget Before Going Abroad

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of preparing for an international trip — new places to see, cultures to experience, and memories waiting to be made. But amid the thrill of booking flights and planning itineraries, it’s easy to overlook the essential items and steps that can make or break your travel experience. Even seasoned …

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