Cuban woman attempts to pay with Cuban cards in Spain

The actress Sailin Carbonell humorously highlights the challenges of using Cuban bank cards abroad, reflecting the economic limitations of Cuba's financial system.


The Cuban actress and influencer Sailin Carbonell, visiting Spain, has sparked laughter on social media with a humorous video that highlights the challenges faced by Cubans when trying to use their bank cards outside the island.

In the clip shared on his Instagram profile, Sailin shows how, after enjoying himself at a Spanish bar, he wanted to pay with his cards from Banco Metropolitano, Bandec, and Telebanca. The waiter, rather than getting frustrated, took a relaxed approach and said to him, "Let's give it a try."

Despite the efforts, the Cuban cards didn't work, causing laughter both in the venue and among the actress's followers.

This episode recalls a similar situation involving the Cuban influencer Dorian Carbonell, who was visiting Brazil a few months ago. On that occasion, a waiter pretended to process a Cuban card on the payment terminal and even handed over a fake receipt, turning the anecdote into a viral phenomenon.

Cuban cards, designed to operate exclusively within the island's financial system, reflect the economic limitations affecting its citizens. With a mix of humor and sarcasm, these videos have become a means to highlight the challenges that ordinary Cubans face when engaging with the outside world.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Use of Cuban Cards Abroad

Why do Cuban bank cards not work outside of Cuba?

Cuban bank cards are designed to operate exclusively within the island's financial system. This is due to economic and political restrictions that limit their international use, reflecting Cuba's economic disconnection from the rest of the world.

What impact does the inability to use Cuban cards abroad have on Cuban citizens?

The inability to use Cuban bank cards abroad reflects the economic limitations faced by Cubans when interacting with the outside world. This generates frustration and complicates simple transactions outside the island, restricting their ability to integrate into the global economy.

What role does humor play in the expression of economic frustration among Cubans?

Humor has become a powerful tool for Cubans, allowing them to express their frustration and economic hardships through humorous videos and parodies. These comedic expressions help to highlight real issues, providing momentary relief and a form of social critique.

What other examples exist of Cubans who have used humor to reflect their economic reality?

In addition to Sailin Carbonell, other Cubans such as Dorian Carbonell and Geylis García have used humor to reflect the economic disconnection and daily difficulties in Cuba. Dorian simulated card payments in Brazil, while Geylis parodied the energy crisis on the island, showcasing how humor can serve as a means of social critique.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.