"People struggle to survive": Cuban shows on TikTok what life is like on the island

"It seems like a place frozen in time, where only the memory of what it once was remains."


A video posted on TikTok by user @kary_sanchezyoutuber depicts the harsh reality on the island. In the footage, taken during a tour of La Lisa, deteriorated streets can be seen, along with long lines at banks, markets with high prices, and areas that were once bustling but now appear almost deserted.

The video includes a message in which the author describes how life in this part of the Cuban capital "seems like a place frozen in time," where only memories of what once was remain. She also encourages users to share what other places in Cuba are in a similar situation.

The comments on the post reflect various perspectives on the crisis in the island. While some users indicate that the situation is widespread throughout Cuba, others compare it to the reality in countries like Venezuela, Mexico, and Argentina.

"Cuba is completely destroyed," commented one user, while another internet user added, "Sadly, the entire island is like this, except for the homes of the bourgeoisie of the dictatorship."

También hubo quienes criticaron la gestión gubernamental y el sistema socialista, mientras que otros apuntaron al embargo estadounidense como una de las razones de la crisis económica. Un usuario comentó con ironía: "Cuba tiene de todo, solo que hay que tener plata, eso es lo difícil."

On the other hand, some comments prompted reflection on the impact of the crisis on the daily lives of Cubans, highlighting the difficulties in obtaining food, the decline of infrastructure, and the uncertainty about the future.

The release of this video adds to other reports circulating on social media regarding the harsh living conditions in Cuba, where inflation, shortages of basic products, and the deterioration of transport and infrastructure have affected the population.

As the crisis deepens, social media continues to be a space where many Cubans express their complaints and concerns, showing the world a reality that, for many, is hard to ignore.

Frequently asked questions about the current situation in Cuba

What is daily life like in Cuba according to testimonies on social media?

Everyday life in Cuba faces multiple challenges, such as food shortages, long blackouts, and a lack of basic resources. Testimonials on TikTok show Cubans cooking with charcoal, standing in long lines for essential products, and dealing with power outages. These accounts reflect a critical situation that affects the entire population of the island.

What problems does the food distribution system in Cuba face?

The food distribution system in Cuba is characterized by scarcity and high prices. Markets often have empty shelves, and long lines are common for acquiring basic products like eggs. Additionally, resellers hoard the few available goods, further driving up prices in the informal market, making food almost a luxury for most Cubans.

What is the impact of the energy crisis on the daily lives of Cubans?

The energy crisis in Cuba has caused prolonged electricity outages, forcing families to resort to rudimentary methods for cooking, such as using charcoal. These blackouts also affect food preservation and make everyday tasks like laundry difficult. The lack of electricity is a recurring problem that severely impacts the quality of life for Cubans.

How does the current situation in Cuba affect tourism on the island?

The economic and social crisis in Cuba is negatively impacting tourism. Tourists' expectations are being frustrated by issues such as power outages, food shortages, and lack of basic services. This has led to a decline in the number of visitors and has prompted warnings for travelers to reconsider their plans to visit the island until the situation improves.

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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.