"Poor but simple": A woman's country house in Cuba goes viral: It reminds all Cubans of their grandmother

A video of a 71-year-old Cuban woman's countryside home goes viral on TikTok, evoking nostalgia for its simplicity and love for home amidst the scarcity in Cuba.


A rural home in Cuba, modest and full of memories, has captured the hearts of thousands of TikTok users thanks to a video that proudly showcases the essence of the traditional Cuban home.

The images, shared by user @nayivishernandez, showcase the country house of her aunt María Elena, a 71-year-old woman whose residence has sparked a wave of nostalgia among Cubans both on the island and abroad.

With the message "Poor but Simple," the post has resonated deeply by reflecting the dignity, ingenuity, and love with which many families cope with scarcity in Cuba.

The house, situated in a rural setting, stands out for its cleanliness, organization, and decor created with the little that is at hand: embroidered rugs, well-maintained furniture, handwoven bedspreads, and a simple yet beautiful garden.

"We are rich because we are alive. Look at those pots; you can comb your hair in them," Nayivis comments with laughter while showing the inside of the home, a phrase that has resonated deeply with those who have watched the video.

"Learn, look how beautiful. Look at that room, how I used to sell knitted bedspreads," adds the Cuban, reviving a tradition that is very much alive in many families: hand weaving, a legacy from generations of industrious women who transformed thread and needle into everyday art.

The video, besides going viral, has sparked a wave of comments filled with affection and nostalgia. "That was my grandmother's house," "That's the most beautiful thing about Cuba," "No luxury can compare to that love," are just a few of the reactions found among the hundreds of messages.

The story of Aunt María Elena is not an exception, but a reflection of a reality experienced by many Cuban families who, despite economic difficulties, keep alive the values of simplicity, cleanliness, and love for home.

Frequently Asked Questions about Daily Life and Resilience in Cuba

Why has a lady's country house in Cuba gone viral?

The countryside house of a lady in Cuba has gone viral on TikTok because it reflects the essence of the traditional Cuban home, filled with memories and a sense of dignity and love despite economic difficulties. The video, posted by @nayivishernandez, has struck a chord by showcasing the cleanliness, organization, and creativity in decoration with the limited resources available.

How is the resilience of Cuban families reflected in these viral videos?

The resilience of Cuban families is reflected in their ability to face scarcity with ingenuity and dignity. The videos showcase how families keep their homes clean, organized, and functional, despite economic hardships. Furthermore, they highlight the values of love and family unity that prevail in adverse situations.

What role do social media play in portraying everyday life in Cuba?

Social media platforms like TikTok play a crucial role in allowing Cubans to share their everyday life stories, often marked by scarcity and creativity. These videos not only document the difficulties but also showcase the resilience and ingenuity of the Cuban people, connecting individuals both on and off the island.

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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.