If you are Cuban and have moved to the United States, there are surely things that shock or surprise you. For example, walking down the streets seems like a lost habit, and seeing someone in pajamas doing their shopping is quite normal. It's quite a cultural shift!
A Cuban who lives in the U.S. wanted to share what has impressed her the most since arriving in the country. In a video posted on TikTok, @niurki2107 casually explained the five things that have caught her attention the most. Amid laughter and with a straightforward style, she made it clear that this is her personal experience and others may have different perspectives.
First, he assured that he has never seen anyone walking down the street: “That doesn’t exist, I’ve never seen it.” He also mentioned that since he has lived in the United States, he has not seen anyone smoking a cigarette, which he found very curious because in Cuba it is a common sight.
He also shared that he is struck by the number of animals he sees in the United States, far more than he has seen in his entire life in Cuba and even in Spain, where he lived for three years. Another point he highlighted was how people go to the market in pajamas: "Literally, they just wear any clothes out on the street." Finally, he noted that there are no stray dogs: "I've never seen one, and for Cubans, that's something we are very accustomed to."
In the comments, several users shared their own experiences. One noted, “Whether people walk depends on the state because in Miami you do see many people walking on the street.” Another person, laughing, admitted, “I love going to the store in my pajamas; I often wear just the top, but if I could wear the bottom too, I would.” Someone else jokingly requested, “Give me the location of the animals, please, my kids have never seen a chicken, a chick, or a frog.” There were also others who agreed with these observations: “I agree with you,” and “I spend all my time walking; I don’t have a car, so I have to.”
The video by @niurki2107, with over 140 likes, highlights those cultural differences that may seem simple, but are surprising and unforgettable for those who move to a new country.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cultural Adjustment of Cubans in the United States
Why do Cubans find it surprising to see people in pajamas at supermarkets in the United States?
In the United States, it is common to see people in pajamas engaging in everyday activities, such as going to the supermarket. This contrasts with the more formal dress customs in public spaces that prevail in Cuba, where people are expected to dress up more when leaving home.
What aspects of daily life in the United States impact newly arrived Cubans the most?
Newly arrived Cubans in the United States are often surprised by the digitalization of daily life, the abundance of products in supermarkets, and the predominant use of dryers instead of air drying clothes. Additionally, the culture of not walking and the variety of personal transportation options are other aspects that catch their attention.
Why do Cubans say that there are no stray dogs in the United States?
In the United States, it is rare to see stray dogs due to strict regulations and animal control programs. This situation contrasts with the reality in Cuba, where stray dogs are a common sight on the streets, which surprises Cubans when they arrive in the northern country.
What changes do Cubans experience in their habits when moving to the United States?
When moving to the United States, many Cubans experience changes in their habits, such as , improving their diet by avoiding junk food, and learning to manage their money better due to the high cost of living in the country.
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