Uruguayan designer Mila Miskovic has not hesitated to share with her thousands of TikTok followers her trip to Cuba, where she traveled to provide humanitarian aid to the country's most vulnerable communities. Upon returning from this journey, she took a moment to respond to a critical comment that questioned the travels to Cuba by foreign tourists.
In a video, the designer began by saying, “I just arrived from the airport in Cuba. I want to talk about Cuba and many comments. I agree with you; I don’t know what people are thinking when they go on vacation to Cuba. I understand Cubans going to see their families.” She then explained that during her trip, she visited very poor villages that even taxis were hesitant to enter, to donate medicines, food, and toys. Miskovic emphasized that the experience was heartbreaking and eye-opening: “I had never seen so many people suffering from hunger, so much need.”
The designer emphasized that the purpose of her visit was to help and learn, not to vacation, noting that she even canceled a planned trip to ski in Colorado in order to dedicate her time and resources to assist in Cuba. “For me, these were days of learning. I have no words to describe Cuba,” she said, adding that she was deeply moved by the smiles of more than 400 children to whom she personally delivered toys.
In her statement, she also addressed the criticisms received regarding her intentions to help: “To all those people who left those comments: stop. If you don’t want to help, nobody is here to judge anyone. But don't prevent others who want to help or collaborate with those children.” Furthermore, she assured that the donations did reach those in need and urged not to dissuade those who intend to support vulnerable Cubans.
The Uruguayan designer, who has over 500 thousand followers on TikTok, concluded her message by emphasizing that her journey was an "odyssey" filled with logistical and emotional challenges, but that it was worth it for the positive impact it had on the lives of hundreds of people. She also made it clear that under no circumstances would she consider Cuba a vacation destination, due to the extreme shortages she observed, such as the lack of food, clean water, and basic services.
The video has sparked extensive debate on social media, where many users, including Cubans, have praised this Uruguayan's work and appreciated her effort and solidarity.
In the days leading up to her trip, Mila Miskovic shared vlogs showcasing her experience in Cuba, highlighting how they distributed toys and assistance to the people on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tourism and the Social Situation in Cuba
Why did the Uruguayan designer Mila Miskovic decide to travel to Cuba?
Mila Miskovic traveled to Cuba to provide humanitarian aid to the most vulnerable communities in the country, not to vacation. Through her experience, she aimed to help and learn about the real situation faced by Cubans, highlighting the extreme shortages she witnessed during her visit.
How did Miskovic describe his experience in Cuba?
Miskovic described his experience in Cuba as "heartbreaking and revealing." He was deeply affected by the number of people suffering from hunger and hardship. Despite the logistical and emotional challenges, he believed that his journey was worthwhile because of the positive impact it had on the lives of hundreds of people, especially children to whom he donated toys.
What criticisms did Miskovic face for his trip to Cuba?
Miskovic faced criticism for her decision to travel to Cuba, particularly from those who question foreigners visiting the island. However, she defended her intention to help and urged that those who wish to collaborate with vulnerable Cubans should not be discouraged. She stated that her donations reached those who truly needed them.
What is the stance of some Cubans living abroad on traveling to Cuba?
Some Cubans abroad defend their decision to travel to Cuba to see their families, despite the criticism. They argue that their priority is to support their loved ones and do not believe this implies support for the Cuban regime. They emphasize that each person is free to choose how to use their resources to help their family on the island.
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