A Bolivian YouTuber documented his visit to Cuba, highlighting the challenging reality faced by Cubans, characterized by blackouts, food shortages, high prices, and a restrictive economic system.
The young man, known on social media as Kapléx (@kaplexx on TikTok) and whose real name is Jhamil Kaleb Marca Ramos, walked the streets of Havana to document aspects of the daily life of Cubans, which often seem incomprehensible to foreigners.
Kapléx began his account by describing the difficult situation that Cubans face in their daily lives: "This is the harsh life here in Cuba," he said, citing power outages, food shortages, and closed pharmacies as examples of everyday challenges.
He also explained that in Cuba, there are two exchange rates for the currency: an official one set by the State and another in the black market, which further complicates the personal economy of citizens.
The YouTuber also spoke about the supply booklet, a system that regulates the consumption of basic products on the island.
According to the description, it is a controlled mechanism to ensure certain essential food items, although it is insufficient to meet the needs of Cuban families.
Among the details that impacted him the most during his stay, he mentioned that consuming beef is a luxury attainable by very few due to its high cost, when it's available, and the strict legal restrictions that prohibit cattle slaughter.
In another video, Kapléx showed the long lines in front of the ATMs, noting that only one of the six available at the location was functioning at the time of the recording.
He also spoke about the prolonged blackouts that have affected not only Havana but other regions of the country: “Just a couple of days ago, no, hours ago, there was a total blackout. There was no electricity for four days, and they are just now restoring it,” he recounted.
The YouTuber shared his experience visiting a supermarket, where he noted that many products were imported and could only be purchased with an MLC credit card.
He tried to make a purchase using his own cards, but they were rejected, which, he explained, is a common issue for foreigners.
The refrigerators were nearly empty, and the prices of the few available products were high, with dollar amounts that are unattainable for most Cubans.
Through these videos, Kapléx provided a direct glimpse into the reality of Cuba, highlighting the challenges faced by the population in their daily struggle to access basic goods and services.
Recently, the YouTuber also expressed a keen interest in a common job in Cuban cities: the lighter refill technician.
In a video posted on TikTok, Kapléx expressed his astonishment at witnessing how these workers restore and refill matchboxes right on the street.
"Here in Cuba, people smoke a lot, so much that there are street repairmen for lighters," the influencer remarked while showing a repairman at work.
Another detail that caught the attention of the Bolivian YouTuber was the peculiar fashion of several young people in Cuba, who wear rubber boots as part of their everyday attire.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Situation in Cuba According to Kapléx
What are the main difficulties faced by Cubans according to Kapléx?
Cubans are facing frequent blackouts, food shortages, high prices, and a restrictive economic system. Kapléx documented these situations during their visit to Havana, also highlighting the long lines at ATMs and the duality of the monetary market on the island.
How does the Cuban economy affect the daily lives of its residents?
The Cuban economy is characterized by a monetary duality, with an official rate set by the State and another in the black market. This situation complicates the personal finances of citizens, who face high prices for basic goods and an inadequate supply system. The ration book, while it guarantees certain essential food items, does not meet all the needs of families.
Why are rubber boots so common in Cuba?
The use of rubber boots in Cuba has become a trend due to the economic difficulties in acquiring conventional footwear. Rubber boots are an accessible and durable alternative, in contrast to the high prices of shoes in the black market. This situation reflects the scarcity of basic goods and the need for affordable options for Cubans.
What does the trade of street lighter repairers in Cuba reflect?
The trade of street lighter repairmen reflects the improvisation and ingenuity that Cubans are compelled to embrace. This work is a response to the lack of formal alternatives and demonstrates how citizen creativity addresses basic shortages in an inefficient economic system.
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