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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 The Sunday Shopping Attempt in Germany Makes You Look Godless

Imagine rolling your suitcase into a spotless German supermarket on a sunny Sunday, only to find the doors locked, the lights off, and a handwritten note that might as well read: nice try. You peer through the glass. Ripe tomatoes, untouched. An army of yogurt cups, chilling in perfect rows. Somewhere, a baker is selling …

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Why European SIM Cards at Airports Cost 10X What Supermarkets Charge

Imagine landing, seeing a neon “Tourist SIM” sign, and paying forty euros for something a neighborhood shop sells for nine. You are tired, you want maps now, and the kiosk clerk promises instant activation. Ten minutes later you leave with a plastic packet and a sinking feeling that you overpaid. You did, and not by …

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The Sick Day Practice Europeans Consider Normal That Gets Americans Fired

Picture waking up with a low fever and a sore throat, sending one message that you will not be in today, then turning off your phone and going back to sleep. No doctor’s note. No laptop. No guilt. In much of Europe, that is not shirking. It is the script. You self-certify a short illness, …

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10 Must-Visit Countries in the World Right Now

Travel has never been more exciting, with borders reopening and new destinations waiting to be explored. Choosing where to go can feel overwhelming, but some countries consistently stand out for their beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re after natural wonders, bustling cities, or hidden gems, the world is full of options that promise adventure. …

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The Rome Metro Line Most Tourists Skip That Saves 45 Minutes Across the City

If you have ever crawled across Rome on a bus for what feels like an eternity, there is a faster way hiding in plain sight. You arrive, you buy a ticket for the classic lines, and you follow the crowd to the famous stops. Then you spend half your day on surface traffic, watching the …

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Why Touching Produce in Spanish Markets Gets Your Hand Slapped

Imagine reaching for a sun warm peach, giving it a testing squeeze, and feeling the stallholder’s eyes land on your knuckles before your fingers even settle. The market smells like herbs and melon. Pyramids of tomatoes stack to a shine. You step forward, hand first, like you would at home. A quiet “no tocar” cuts …

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Why Portuguese Pastéis Don’t Cause the Sugar Spiral American Donuts Do

You order a coffee in Lisbon, a pastel arrives still warm, the pastry shatters, the custard hums, and five bites later you feel finished rather than hunting for a second box. Walk into an American office on a Friday and you meet a dozen donuts in a glossy box, half of them frosted and filled. …

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The Puerto Rican Breakfast You’ve Been Missing: What Locals Really Eat (Plus Easy Recipes)

Puerto Rico, known as the “Island of Enchantment,” is a testament to a mesmerizing blend of Taíno, Spanish, African, and American cultures, culminating in a unique and diverse culinary tradition. Delving into its breakfast culture offers an intimate glimpse into the island’s vibrant soul. From savory scrambles to sweet pastries, Puerto Rico‘s morning gastronomy is …

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12 Best Places to Visit Along the Spain–Portugal Border You Can’t Miss

The borderlands between Spain and Portugal are some of the most underrated regions in Europe. While most travelers flock to Madrid, Lisbon, or Barcelona, the hidden gems that lie along the frontier tell a story of shared history, cultural fusion, and breathtaking landscapes. Exploring this area offers a chance to experience two distinct cultures while …

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Forget Prague: 13 Stunning European Cities You Should Visit Instead

Prague often dominates European travel lists, and for good reason—it’s stunning, historic, and vibrant. But its popularity has also made it crowded, expensive, and at times less authentic than many travelers hope. For those looking to experience Europe in a more unique way, there are countless destinations that offer the same charm without the overwhelming …

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15 Worst Walkable Cities in the World (You Won’t Believe #7)

Walking is one of the simplest ways to explore a city, but not every destination makes it easy. Some cities are designed with cars in mind, leaving pedestrians to navigate unsafe streets, poor infrastructure, or overwhelming traffic. While a lack of walkability doesn’t always mean a city isn’t worth visiting, it does make getting around …

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Why Spanish Landlords Require Six Months Upfront From Americans Only

You found the perfect flat in Madrid, sent your documents, and the agent replied with a number that made your jaw drop: six months upfront. You are not a scammer. You have savings. So why this demand, and why does it seem to happen to Americans? Walk any Spanish rental market and you will hear …

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