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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.

17 Everyday American Habits That Are Considered Rude in Europe

Think you’re fitting in perfectly during your European adventure? Think again. As someone who’s spent years bridging the cultural gap between American and European lifestyles, I’ve witnessed countless moments of unintentional cultural friction. These aren’t just minor faux pas – they’re habits deeply ingrained in American culture that can make Europeans visibly cringe. But don’t …

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Why Packing Light Isn’t Always Smart: The Dark Side of Minimalist Travel

For years, minimalist packing has dominated travel blogs, YouTube channels, and Instagram reels. The message is always the same: if you aren’t traveling with just a carry-on, you’re doing it wrong. From capsule wardrobes to one-shoe strategies, the minimalist packing trend promises freedom, flexibility, and ease. But is it truly as ideal as influencers make …

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11 Rookie Travel Mistakes That Could Ruin Your International Trip (And How to Avoid Them)

Planning an international trip is exciting, but it can also be stressful when you realize how many small details could go wrong. From overlooked visa requirements to packing mistakes and currency confusion, the days leading up to your departure often feel like a checklist that never ends. Even seasoned travelers slip up occasionally, leading to …

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Instagram vs. Reality: 15 Cities That Look Better in Filters Than in Person

We’ve all seen them: breathtaking cityscapes, charming alleyways, perfect sunsets captured from dreamy European rooftops. Instagram has a way of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary, especially when travel influencers know just the right angles, filters, and lighting tricks. But once you arrive, the truth often looks a little…different. Over-tourism, inflated expectations, and clever editing …

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What Portugal Is Really Famous For: The Insider’s Guide Tourists Never Read

Portugal has long remained in the shadows of its larger European neighbors, but those who visit quickly discover it is a country brimming with unique culture, natural beauty, and culinary treasures. From dramatic cliffs along the Algarve to the soulful melodies of fado echoing through Lisbon’s narrow streets, Portugal offers an authentic European experience without …

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Are Spanish People Actually Sleeping Until Noon, or Is This Schedule Why They’re Healthier?

And what it reveals about rhythm, routine, and the cultural confidence to live by the sun instead of the clock Ask almost any American what they picture when they think of Spanish daily life, and sooner or later you’ll hear it: “They sleep until noon, eat dinner at midnight, and somehow still have energy for …

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The Wrinkle Prevention Secret French Women Do Nightly That American Dermatologists Gatekeep

And what it reveals about lifestyle, texture, and why aging is treated differently on each side of the Atlantic In the United States, anti-aging has become a full-blown industry. Retinol serums with multi-step routines. Dermatologist-recommended lasers. Collagen powders. Overnight repair masks. Botox by thirty. Preventive filler by thirty-five. And all of it served with the …

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The Intimacy Rhythm Spanish Couples Maintain That Makes Americans Feel Inadequate

And what it reveals about pressure, connection, and why Mediterranean romance isn’t measured in numbers American couples are used to reading statistics.How often are you supposed to be intimate? Once a week? Twice? More if you’re under 40? Less if you have kids? Entire industries have been built around these questions — apps, therapists, coaching …

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Are Italians Actually Naked All the Time, or Do Americans Just Visit at the Wrong Moments?

And what it reveals about cultural perception, bodily ease, and how Mediterranean norms dismantle American modesty If you spend any real time in Italy — not just on a whirlwind city tour but long enough to stay with friends, visit the countryside, or spend a week on the coast — you may start to wonder …

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Why You Might Avoid Mexico (But 7 Powerful Reasons Will Make You Go Anyway)

Mexico is a destination that evokes strong emotions in travelers around the world. For some, it’s a land of vibrant street markets, turquoise beaches, and warm hospitality. For others, it carries a reputation for safety concerns, tourist scams, or negative headlines that discourage them from visiting. This divide often leads to missed opportunities to experience …

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12 Destinations Solo Travelers Should Think Twice About Visiting (And Why You Might Feel Unwelcome)

Solo travel has become a rite of passage for many people seeking independence, growth, and adventure. It can build confidence, teach resilience, and introduce you to cultures in a deeply personal way. However, not every destination is created equal when it comes to safety, hospitality, or ease for those traveling alone. In some countries, solo …

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12 Best Food Destinations You Would Love to Visit for Trying Their Local Dishes

Food is one of the most authentic ways to experience a country’s culture, history, and daily life. From vibrant street food stalls to centuries-old family restaurants, every destination tells its story through its flavours. Travelling for food isn’t just about tasting something delicious – it’s about understanding the heart of a place and the traditions …

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