Two young people return to Cuba from the U.S. and Spain to surprise their friend for her birthday after 4 years

Two young people travel from the U.S. and Spain to Cuba to surprise their friend on her birthday after four years without seeing each other. The emotional reunion in Cienfuegos has touched hearts on TikTok.


Unforgettable surprise! After four years apart, two friends decided to pack their bags, cross the ocean, and return to Cuba to reunite… and, by the way, surprise another friend for her birthday.

One arrived from the United States and the other from Spain. The plan was as simple as it was emotional: to return to their homeland, regain lost time, and relive those embraces they missed so much.

The reunion video, posted by @laurakaty12 on TikTok, shows the exact moment the birthday girl sees them and cannot contain her excitement. Amid laughter, shouts, and hugs, the scene was filled with joy right in the streets of Cienfuegos.

“We surprised her from the United States and Spain for her birthday, after four years without spending it together. We love you”, Laura wrote alongside the images.

Reactions came quickly: "I dream of hugging my friends too," "That's my province, Cienfuegos. What nostalgia," "Everything is so beautiful," or "God, what good envy," commented several users moved by the story.

Moreover, the two young women who traveled also shared their own reunion at the airport, adding even more emotion to this story that has touched the hearts of many. Because when friendship is genuine, neither time nor distance can break it.

Frequently Asked Questions about Reunions Among Friends and Family in Cuba

Why are reunions in Cuba after years of separation so emotional?

Reunions in Cuba are extremely emotional because they mark the end of long periods of separation due to migration and economic hardships. For Cubans, these moments symbolize the gathering with loved ones after facing significant barriers, renew hope, and strengthen family and friendship bonds.

How do social networks influence the virality of Cuban reunions?

Social media, especially platforms like TikTok, allow for sharing these intimate and emotional moments with a wide audience. The virality of these videos is due to the strong emotional connection they create, resonating with those who have experienced similar situations of separation and sharing stories of love, sacrifice, and hope.

What challenges do Cubans face in reuniting with their loved ones?

Cubans face significant challenges in reuniting with their families, including immigration restrictions, economic difficulties, and complex travel processes. These barriers make reunions infrequent and highly anticipated, intensifying the emotional burden of these moments.

Why are reunions among friends in Cuba so significant?

Friend reunions in Cuba are significant because they often involve overcoming long distances and periods of separation due to emigration. These meetings are a testament to the strength of friendship and the emotional connection that transcends time and distance, providing moments of joy and emotional renewal for those involved.

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Izabela Pecherska

Editor at CiberCuba. Graduated in Journalism from the Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, Spain. Editor at El Mundo and PlayGround.