The Cuban, bold by nature in the pursuits of love, relies significantly on the freedom with which he embraces the act of loving. As lovers of beauty, when we encounter a stunning presence in our path, we hold back nothing in our creative compliments. The more ingenuity and spontaneity that accompany those acts of gallantry, the greater the chances of capturing the attention of the desired object and even eliciting a smile that could hint at something more significant.
The ancient tricks of our ancestors, which relied on an excessive amount of indirectness before stating the obvious, have gradually evolved into more spontaneous, direct, and straightforward ways of courtship. These new methods represent a true art form and an oral heritage of the nation.
The practice of complimenting or giving flirtatious remarks is more common in urban settings than in rural ones, where the traditional manners of our grandparents still prevail. In contrast, this behavior is very prevalent in cities, not only initiated by men towards women, but increasingly, more women, confident in themselves and exercising their freedom of gender, are taking the initiative to compliment a handsome man.
But what is being said? How is it done? One only needs to have wit, good taste, and the courage to capture the attention of the object of our desires, and perhaps elicit a smile or initiate a conversation in the best-case scenario.
We must be very careful because if we go over the limit, our actions may be perceived as mere rudeness, resulting only in annoyance, disdain, or indifference from the other person.
Compliment, courtship, or disrespect?
In fact, some female tourists on the island have been taken aback when, while crossing the street, they are met with a barrage of kisses and compliments from Cubans, something that in many places could be considered sexual harassment. However, on this island, it is viewed as normal and even pleasant, as long as the flattery does not cross the line into vulgarity or become inappropriate.
While a significant part of success lies in how something is said rather than the message itself, here are some that stand out for their originality, wit, and popularity among Cubans:
An elegant sway is always praised like this: "If you cook like you walk, I’d eat even the scraps." To someone we adore for their beauty or charm: "Baby, if San Lázaro sees you, he’ll drop his crutches and run after you."
Another variation could be: “Honey, walk in the shade because the chocolates melt in the sun.” Someone of short stature is often gently reminded that “Good perfume comes in small bottles.” Meanwhile, a woman with voluptuous curves is warned that she might get “A ticket for excess baggage in the trunk.”
When we want to be noticed at all costs, we might say something like, "Do you believe in love at first sight, or should I walk by again?" A girl from Havana might tell an older man, "Daddy, you're like the Morro—old but interesting."
And a young man to an older woman: "Love, you're like those classic cars, with your years but in perfect condition." And so there is a long list that seems never-ending, drawing from the daily life and limitless spontaneity of this warm, inherently romantic town.
Here are some other uniquely witty compliments.
"May God keep you... and grant me the key."
"China, if the sun could ever gaze upon you, it would never be night."
"If beauty were a sin, you would not attain Glory."
"You're making me jealous, girl! You have so much meat, and I'm starving."
"You with so many curves and me without brakes."
"Girl, you're like a lobster: it's all about the tail."
“Hey, you're like Santa Bárbara... saintly in the front and wild in the back.”
“Girl! You are exactly what the doctor prescribed for me.”
"You're so sweet that just looking at you makes me gain weight."
"Girl, with the groove you bring and the fun vibe you've got, we can make a fantastic stew."
"God, from what tree did that mango fall?"
“Blessed is the sculptor who shaped your curves.”
“Not even the divine Michelangelo could create such a good man.”
"How technology advances... because even flowers are moving!"
"You deserve to be declared a National Heritage."
"Ever since I saw your big green eyes, I became an environmentalist."
He asks, "My love, is your name Alicia?" She replies, "Not me, why?" He responds, "Because a woman like you must come from Wonderland."
“Mima, you’re like the People’s Power... you have everything and give nothing.”
“Sleep with the angels, but dream of me, for one day you will sleep with me and dream of the angels... if you even sleep.”
"May Santa be the sheep from which the wool was taken to sew the priest's cassock who baptized you."
"Hey girl, aren’t you a little tired? …Because you’ve been running around in my mind all day."
"Oh, what a charming little dog! Does it have a phone number?"
"Nice pants, they would look great on my bedroom floor."
"Hello, I’m new here. Can you tell me where your apartment is?"
"I lost my phone number, can you give me yours?"
The truth is that amidst the daily hustle, compliments unexpectedly break in—sometimes as a playful wink, at other times as a timid whisper, and occasionally as an overwhelming gesture that can either startle or warm the heart.
Frequently Asked Questions About Catcalling in Cuba
Why are compliments a tradition in Cuba?
Compliments in Cuba are a tradition that reflects the bold and creative nature of the Cuban people in expressing admiration. They are regarded as an art form and part of the oral heritage, evolving from being indirect and subtle to more spontaneous and direct.
How are compliments perceived in Cuba compared to other countries?
In Cuba, compliments are viewed as a form of flirtation and are usually received positively, as long as they are not rude. In other countries, they may be considered harassment, which highlights a significant cultural difference in the way these expressions are perceived.
Who usually gives compliments in Cuba?
Although traditionally it was men who would give compliments, increasingly more women are taking the initiative to do so. This reflects an act of gender freedom and a growing self-confidence among Cuban women.
What are some of the most popular compliments in Cuba?
Among the most popular compliments are creative expressions like: "If you cook like you walk, I'd eat even the scraps" or "Baby, if San Lázaro sees you, he'll drop his crutches and run after you." These compliments stand out for their wit and spontaneity.
How are compliments perceived in the current context of social media?
On social media, compliments are seen both as a form of flirting and as a cultural expression. Figures like Liz Lauren Rodríguez have popularized this practice by sharing videos in which they deliver clever compliments, showcasing their creativity and spontaneity.
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