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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 Gallo Pinto Is the Dish Costa Rica Can’t Live Without

Our full recipe guide on how to make Gallo Pinto the most popular breakfast in Costa Rica. In Costa Rica, few dishes capture the essence of everyday life quite like Gallo Pinto. This simple yet flavorful mix of rice and beans isn’t just a meal it’s a cultural staple that finds its way onto breakfast, …

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The investment mistake that cost American expats their retirement in Spain: financial advisors now warn everyone

A lot of Americans arrive in Spain with the same idea: keep the portfolio invested, live off a sensible draw, and enjoy the fact that a normal life here costs less than the version they were running in the U.S. Then they do one thing that feels harmless. They walk into a Spanish bank, open …

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How Tamales Are Actually Made in Mexico

Few dishes capture the spirit and tradition of Mexican cuisine quite like tamales. Wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection, tamales are more than just a meal they’re a celebration of heritage, family, and flavor. With ancient roots tracing back to Mesoamerican civilizations, tamales have remained a central dish in Mexican homes for generations, …

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How we live on $2,100/month in Europe better than $5,500/month in California. Here’s a full breakdown

The shock is not that Europe is “cheap.” The shock is how many American costs are compulsory, and how many European costs are optional if you pick the right city and live like a resident. When Americans hear “$2,100 a month,” they picture deprivation. When they hear “$5,500 a month,” they picture comfort. California taught …

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45 Days Without American Restaurant Food Changed My Health

This was not a cleanse or a moral performance. I simply quit chain-restaurant food for 45 days, cooked Mediterranean in my small Spanish kitchen, and kept receipts and numbers. By day 38 I was off three long term meds with my doctor’s sign off, lighter by 16.4 pounds, and sleeping like a sane person. The …

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7 French Meals That Make Cheap Ingredients Feel Luxurious

At first glance, French cuisine can seem all about foie gras and fancy sauces, but everyday French families often cook simple, wallet-friendly meals. From hearty soups to veggie-packed one-pans, here are 7 classic recipes that prove you don’t need to be a Michelin-star chef or spend a fortune to eat like a local in France. …

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Why Bifanas Beat Every Tourist Sandwich in Portugal

Bifanas are one of Portugal’s most iconic street foods, featuring thin slices of pork marinated in garlic, white wine, and spices, then cooked until tender and served in a fresh crusty roll. This simple yet flavourful sandwich is deeply rooted in Portuguese culinary tradition, often enjoyed at local festivals, football matches, or as a quick …

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The 15-Minute Beef and Broccoli That Beats Takeout

Beef and broccoli stir-fry is a classic Asian-inspired dish that combines tender slices of beef with crisp broccoli florets, all tossed in a savoury and slightly sweet sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying homemade meal without spending hours …

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Why 58% of Americans who retire to Europe return with less money than they left with. Here are the 4 drains

The story usually starts the same way. A couple lands in Europe with a paid-off house back home, a healthy retirement account, and a plan to “live simpler.” They pick Spain or Portugal or Italy because the numbers look friendly. Rent is lower, groceries are cheaper, and nobody seems to be bleeding money on random …

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Why Eating Bread Like an Italian Helped Me Lose Weight

I changed the bread, not my personality. For 30 days I ate like the nonnas taught the neighborhood: bread with real meals, never as entertainment, fermented dough with flavor, portions that look small until you chew them, and leftovers turned into tomorrow’s lunch. I did not start running. I did not count anything. I kept …

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The Moroccan Soup You’ll Crave on Cold Nights

Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its comforting flavours, aromatic spices, and nourishing dishes that warm the soul. One of Morocco’s most beloved traditional recipes is Harira soup, a hearty tomato-based soup enriched with lentils, chickpeas, and fresh herbs. In this recipe guide, you will learn how to make authentic Harira soup at home, allowing you …

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12 Countries That Will Pay You to Move There in 2026 (Yes, Really!)

The idea of getting paid to move abroad sounds too good to be true, yet it’s becoming a reality for many people. Around the world, countries and smaller regions are offering financial incentives to attract new residents. Whether it’s to fight population decline, stimulate local economies, or revitalize rural towns, these programs are creating opportunities …

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