The experience of a young Cuban woman living in China has gone viral on TikTok after she shared how she landed an unusual job: performing as a mermaid in an aquarium. The young woman, who identifies herself as @isabell_mermaid, explained that before emigrating, she practiced synchronized swimming and even became a member of the national team of Cuba. However, her path changed when a friend, who had been living in China for five years, posted a job opportunity for women interested in working as mermaids in a water park.
"I got in touch, sent photos, and was selected along with two other girls and a guy. They handled all the necessary paperwork, which took some time, but finally, they sent me the documents for the visa." she recounted. Once at the embassy, she was granted an express visa, and upon arrival, she received the work visa. After working at the aquarium, they decided to stay and look for new job opportunities in the same sector.
Her adaptation was not easy due to the language, culture, and food. "At first, I really struggled with the food; everything was spicy, and hailing a taxi was complicated," she recounted. Regarding her salary, although she assures that what she earns is confidential, she says the money is more than enough: "Yes, and I have extra. Everything is cheap here."
The video generated hundreds of comments, some supportive and others skeptical. One user compared her migration to "changing cabins on the Titanic," while others asked her about daily life and how she manages money. She clarified that she gets paid through a mobile app and that if she needs cash, she can exchange with Chinese citizens.
Despite some criticism, the young woman, who has been living in China for almost two years, stated: "I share my experience with the world. Those who are interested can see it, and those who aren't can just keep going."
His testimony has generated curiosity and debate among Cubans inside and outside the island, showcasing another facet of emigration and job opportunities in countries less commonly considered by the Cuban diaspora.
Frequently asked questions about the experience of a Cuban working as a mermaid in China
How did the young Cuban land a mermaid job in China?
The young Cuban found the mermaid job in China through an offer posted by a friend who had been living in the country for five years. She got in touch, sent photos, and was chosen along with two other girls and a man. The company handled all the necessary paperwork for the work visa.
What were the main adaptation challenges for the Cuban in China?
The adaptation of the Cuban in China was not easy due to differences in language, culture, and food. At first, she struggled to get used to the spicy food and finding transportation, such as taxis, was complicated because of the language barrier.
How does the Cuban manage her finances in China?
The young Cuban receives her salary through a mobile app and, if she needs cash, she can exchange money with Chinese citizens. She claims that her salary is sufficient and even extra, as "everything is cheap here".
How has your story impacted social media?
The story of the Cuban woman working as a mermaid in China has gone viral on TikTok, sparking curiosity and debate about job opportunities in less common countries for the Cuban diaspora. She has received both support and skepticism in the comments.
Filed under:
