The Cuban Ariel Ramos Perdomo, residing in Missouri, United States, has gone viral on social media with a video where he mixes humor, complaints, and a bit of desperation as he copes with the extreme cold of the American winter.
The scene reflects the reality of many Cubans who have chosen to live in places outside the warm south of Florida, facing challenges they never imagined on the island.
In the video, Ariel is seen clearing snow from his car, feeling somewhat down. Amidst shoveling ice, he tries to uplift his spirits by listing the advantages of living far from Miami.
"There are no mosquitoes, no hurricanes, no crocodiles, the rent is cheap..." However, the cold pushes him to his limits, and in a moment of frustration, he dramatically throws himself onto a pile of snow while exclaiming that he can’t take it anymore.
Ariel Ramos Perdomo became famous for his videos on social media with Grandma Marta, an elderly woman living in Varadero who is very popular among Cubans. The young man emigrated to the United States in May of last year but did not settle in Florida; instead, he moved to the central part of the country.
The video combines the classic reasons Cubans have for not living in Miami with the humor that characterizes Ariel. It has generated hundreds of comments from his followers, many of whom are also emigrants and remain in Florida as it is the ideal refuge for Cubans who dislike the cold.
This weekend, temperatures are also dropping in the Sun City, but extreme snowfalls are an unfamiliar phenomenon for those who live there.
Cubans in the United States struggle against the snow
The snow is driving many Cubans in the United States crazy, especially those who have recently arrived in the country and are experiencing their first major snowfall.
Another viral video was posted on TikTok by the user @andhy3455. With a humorous tone, it shows how he goes out to work in the snow, wrapped in blankets and wearing so many layers that his face is barely visible.
"That's life in the United States; you have to go to work regardless of the weather. Then they tell you to send me 200 dollars because 100 isn't enough," he said, referring to the effort that Cubans make to send remittances to their families on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Challenges Faced by Cubans Living in the U.S.
Why did Ariel Ramos Perdomo decide to live in Missouri instead of Miami?
Ariel Ramos Perdomo chose Missouri for economic reasons, such as lower rent. Despite the challenges of the cold weather, he mentions advantages like the absence of mosquitoes, hurricanes, and crocodiles. In contrast, many Cubans opt for Miami due to its warm climate and proximity to Cuba, although they face high living costs.
What are the main reasons for Cubans to move outside of Miami?
The reasons include the high cost of living, elevated rents, traffic, and low wages. Many Cubans are seeking states with more affordable living costs and better job opportunities. Testimonials on TikTok reflect that, although Miami is an important cultural hub, its economic challenges motivate many to look for more sustainable alternatives.
How does the winter weather affect Cubans who move to cold states in the U.S.?
Winter weather poses a significant challenge, as seen in the experience of Ariel Ramos Perdomo and other Cubans in Missouri. The extreme cold and snow are new conditions for many, necessitating adaptation. However, some perceive these difficulties as offset by economic benefits and improvements in quality of life.
What do Cubans think about life in Miami compared to other cities in the U.S.?
The opinion is divided. Miami is valued for its climate and Latino community, but criticized for its high cost of living. Some Cubans choose to move to other states in search of a more affordable and peaceful life. On social media, there is frequent debate about the quality of life in Miami compared to other cities.
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