This is how Cubans react upon seeing a Lada on the streets of Cape Coral: "It's going to a PCC meeting in the province."

A viral video on TikTok features a Lada in Cape Coral, Florida, evoking nostalgia and humor among Cubans. The comments reflect a blend of memories and critiques about its symbolism.


A video shared on TikTok by the user @denlizxperience has caught the attention of Cubans on social media. In the clip, a white Lada is seen driving through the streets of Cape Coral, Florida, accelerating in the classic style of the Soviet vehicles that defined an era in Cuba.

The Lada, an iconic car on the island as a symbol of decades of Soviet influence, did not go unnoticed, sparking a wave of comments filled with humor and nostalgia.

Some users on TikTok quickly joked with phrases like: “He’s off to a PCC meeting in the province” and “The head of the DTI in Tampa,” referring to the governmental uses these cars had in Cuba.

Other comments highlighted the rarity of seeing a Lada in the United States, with phrases like: “It feels like we’re over there instead of here,” while some took the scene with optimism: “Very nice; if he’s happy with his car, then good for him.”

The video, which has garnered thousands of views, showcases how Cuban culture remains alive in exile, where even the sight of an old Lada can evoke a blend of laughter, memories, and criticism.

These types of vehicles, renowned for their durability and practical design, continue to be part of the collective imagination of Cubans, although many on the island feel they symbolize a past they wish to move on from.

The images and comments reflect the contrast between the past and present of Cubans abroad, and how simple elements like a car can evoke a torrent of emotions and memories of life on the island.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Presence of Ladas and Cuban Culture in the United States

Why does a Lada on the streets of Cape Coral generate so much interest among Cubans?

The Lada is a symbol of Soviet influence in Cuba and seeing one in the United States evokes nostalgia and humor among Cubans. This vehicle is iconic on the island, and its presence in such a different context stirs a blend of memories and critiques among Cubans in exile.

How do Cubans react when they see a Lada in the United States?

Reactions range from humor and nostalgia to criticism. Some Cubans joke about the governmental past associated with these vehicles, while others see it as a symbol of a time they wish to leave behind. There are also those who appreciate the durability and practical design of the Lada, which generates a debate about its cultural significance.

What is the cultural impact of seeing Ladas in the United States for the Cuban community?

Seeing a Lada in the United States strengthens the cultural connection and the identity of Cubans in exile. It evokes memories and sparks discussions about the fusion of cultures and the traditions carried abroad, demonstrating how simple elements like a car can keep cultural roots alive.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.

Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.