A young Cuban in the Dominican Republic has sparked a wave of reactions on TikTok after sharing a video in which he lists the four things he likes most about living in that Caribbean country and one that he cannot stand: sweet beans.
In the clip shared by the user @kristiano_beats, the young man expresses feeling at home while living in a Dominican neighborhood. “You’re in Cuba, it’s the same as in Cuba, the same neighborhood, the same everything,” he says in his recording, which has been viewed over 255 thousand times on the platform. He adds that the Dominican people are warm and outgoing, and that he really enjoys the variety of products available in the colmados, where you can find everything and shop "without a ration book."
Another aspect he appreciates is the climate, which he describes as warm and similar to that of Cuba. However, his only "but" is a traditional element of Dominican gastronomy: “The only thing I don’t like, and I apologize to Dominicans, is sweet bean soup. I don’t believe there’s a Cuban who would eat that,” he stated.
The networks react: between national pride and shared laughter
The post generated over 2,000 comments, featuring a wealth of hospitality, humor, national pride, and cultural debates. Many Dominicans passionately defended habichuelas con dulce, a traditional Holy Week dish, while other users —including some Cubans— acknowledged that they have also struggled to get used to its flavor.
“You're missing out,” wrote a Dominican user, while another replied, “That's because you haven't tried it well made.” A Cuban commented, “I'm also here and I don't have sweet beans.” The phrase "I'm not an aguilucho", referring to not being a fan of the popular baseball team Águilas Cibaeñas, also sparked laughter and divided comments about local sports rivalries.
Moreover, several users highlighted that the similarities between Cubans and Dominicans go beyond language or climate. "Conclusion: you are in Cuba Premium," joked a follower. Others added more heartfelt messages such as: "Cubans will always be welcome in the DR" or "I hope that Cuba will someday be free."
Similar testimonials: a constant on TikTok
This testimony is not the only one that has captured attention on social media. Last March, a newly arrived Cuban in Punta Cana went viral when she entered a supermarket for the first time, amazed by the variety of products available. "Are these garlics for decoration?" she asked in astonishment, reflecting the contrast with the scarcity in her country.
The case of Eliza has also been widely discussed, a young woman who described her experience in Santo Domingo as enlightening. She praised the Dominican hospitality, modern transportation, the ease of starting a business, and even the speed of the internet. “Here, videos upload like a rocket,” she said in her video, which was also widely shared.
For her part, Claudia Jauregui, another young Cuban living in the Dominican Republic, expressed her gratitude on TikTok for the way she has been welcomed. “I already eat mangú, mofongo, and I know how to say 'give me a little bit,'” she joked, showing how she has embraced part of Dominican culture while still holding on to her Cuban roots.
A growing cultural phenomenon
These viral stories on social media not only entertain but also shed light on the migration experience of Cubans in the Caribbean. Amid cultural shock, adaptation, and gratitude, the testimonies reveal a special connection between both peoples, forged by geographical proximity, similarities in Caribbean character, and, above all, in the solidarity between nations.
Frequently asked questions about the experience of Cubans in the Dominican Republic
What aspects of the Dominican Republic does the young Cuban highlight in his video?
The young Cuban highlights the warmth of the Dominican people, the variety of products in the local stores, and the climate that is similar to that of Cuba. He also mentions that he feels at home living in a Dominican neighborhood, although he does not enjoy habichuelas con dulce, a traditional Dominican dish.
Why has the video of the Cuban on TikTok generated so many reactions?
The video has generated over 2,000 comments as it provokes cultural debates and highlights similarities between Cubans and Dominicans, in addition to sparking humor and national pride among viewers. Many Dominicans defend their cuisine, while others laugh and comment on the cultural similarities between both countries.
How is the migratory experience of Cubans in the Dominican Republic reflected on social media?
The migratory experience of Cubans is reflected on social media through testimonies that highlight Dominican hospitality and the contrast with the limitations in Cuba. Viral videos showcase how Cubans adapt to their new environment, appreciating the opportunities and freedoms they find in the Dominican Republic.
What typical Dominican dish does the young Cuban not like and why?
The young Cuban does not enjoy sweet beans, a traditional dish of Dominican cuisine. According to him, it is a flavor that Cubans are not accustomed to, and he mentions that he does not believe many Cubans would be able to enjoy it.
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