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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 European Apartments Have This Feature That Americans Hate

And what it reveals about cultural priorities, practicality, and the quiet value of what lasts over what looks new Walk into a newly renovated apartment in Paris, Madrid, Lisbon, or Rome, and you’re likely to find something still intact that would have been the first thing ripped out in an American remodel the bidet, the …

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Why Koreans Never Tire of This Dish

Beef Bulgogi is one of Korea’s most popular and globally beloved dishes, known for its tender slices of marinated beef grilled to perfection with a balance of sweet, savoury, and smoky flavours. The name “bulgogi” translates to “fire meat,” a nod to its traditional preparation over an open flame, creating a caramelised glaze that makes …

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10 Genius Travel Gadgets That Make Everything Easier

Traveling today is more convenient and efficient than ever, thanks in part to a new wave of smart gadgets designed with travelers in mind. From keeping your devices charged on the go to making long flights more comfortable, having the right gear in your bag can transform your entire travel experience. Yet with so many …

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What Locals Wish Tourists Would Stop Doing in Mexico

Mexico welcomes millions of visitors each year, drawn by its food, landscapes, history, and warmth. Most travelers arrive with good intentions and genuine curiosity. Yet even well-meaning tourists often bring habits that unintentionally create tension with local communities. Many of these behaviors are not rooted in disrespect, but in misunderstanding. Travel marketing presents Mexico as …

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What Happened When I Stopped Cooking Pasta the American Way? I Cooked Pasta Like an Italian for 30 Days And My Life Changed Completely

Why Bother Trying This? If you had told me a month ago that cooking pasta “the Italian way” could be a life-altering experience, I would have laughed in your face probably while shoveling spoonfuls of leftover mac and cheese from a box. Yet here I am, 30 days later, feeling like I’ve undergone a mini …

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Why Japanese Locals Stay Silent When Tourists Mess Up: 22 Things You’re Doing Wrong in Japan That Locals Will Never Correct You On

Japan may be one of the most welcoming and peaceful countries on earth, but that doesn’t mean anything goes. Behind the country’s dazzling technology, efficient trains, and Michelin-starred ramen shops lies a deeply rooted culture of etiquette, respect, and social harmony. And while many visitors assume their intentions are enough, unknowingly violating these unspoken rules …

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You’re Making Empanadas Wrong: Here’s the Way Latin Grandmas Do It

Empanadas are the ultimate handheld comfort food, beloved across Latin America and Spain for their flaky crusts and flavorful fillings. From Argentina’s beef-filled versions with olives and boiled eggs to Spain’s tuna-stuffed empanada gallega and Colombia’s golden fried cornmeal empanadas, each country has its own delicious interpretation of this versatile dish. At their core, empanadas …

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9 Office Customs in Europe That Would Get Americans Fired

(And Why They Actually Make Work Life More Human) Picture this: it’s 9:45 a.m. in a small office in Spain. A few employees have just arrived. Someone’s making coffee. A couple coworkers are chatting—loudly—about weekend plans. No one’s panicking about being late, and no one is pretending to be busy. Eventually, people settle into their …

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Why Piadina Is Italy’s Most Addictive Sandwich

Italy is famous for its pasta, pizza, and gelato but tucked away in the Emilia-Romagna region is a lesser-known culinary gem: the Piadina Romagnola. This traditional flatbread, soft yet slightly crisp when grilled, has been a staple of Italian street food and home kitchens for centuries. Filled with simple yet flavorful ingredients like prosciutto, fresh …

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Why Finding An Apartment In Barcelona Takes Americans 4 Months

The first week, Americans think it’s a paperwork problem. The second week, they realize it’s a speed problem. By week four, it becomes an identity problem. They’re used to being “qualified.” Good credit, steady income, clean record, polite emails, on time to viewings. In Barcelona, none of that makes you special. It makes you one …

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Why Portugal Beats Spain at Seafood: 8 Portuguese Dishes That Are Better Than Paella

Why the Comparison?Everybody knows paella the Spanish rice blockbuster. Meanwhile, Portugal’s cuisine sits unfairly in the shadows, overshadowed by that saffron showstopper. The truth? Portuguese gastronomy brims with hearty stews, fresh seafood, and sweet pastries that can easily rival Spain’s biggest hits. Below are 8 homegrown Portuguese dishes that deserve international recognition and definitely your …

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