The young Cuban @edenny30 shared a video on TikTok that has already generated hundreds of reactions, in which she provides a practical guide for other Cubans who wish to emigrate to Uruguay, based on her own experience.
The influencer breaks down the basic expenses involved in settling in Uruguay: “If you're coming alone or as a couple, I recommend renting a room in a boarding house where you'll only pay for the monthly rent, which ranges from about 9,000 to about 12,000 Uruguayan pesos.” According to her, this option allows you to save on other costs such as water, electricity, or buying appliances: “You don't have to buy a stove or a refrigerator.”
But she makes it clear that "if you come with family and rent an apartment, it gets complicated." She herself faced barriers: "I had to make a deposit of three months' rent, pay the next month's rent, and also pay half of the notary's fee, which was about 9,000 pesos. In total, 1,800 dollars. An expensive amount."
Regarding rents in Montevideo, it is stated that "they range from around 13,000 to about 18,000 pesos and higher." It emphasizes that obtaining guarantees as a newcomer is challenging: "You don't have work history unless you have a friend or relative willing to sign the lease in their name. And honestly, I don't recommend this."
For those arriving with children and needing to furnish from scratch, here are some specific prices: “Refrigerator, 12,000 pesos; four-burner stove, 4,600; water heater, 5,000; beds, between 6,000 and 8,000; gas cylinder with accessories, 4,000.” It is also advisable to visit fairs, Emáus, or pages like “Cubans in Uruguay” on Facebook to find second-hand items.
"So, how much money do you need? Do your own calculations," he concludes. However, he makes his recommendations clear: "If you're coming for a pension, don't bring less than 2,500 dollars. If you're planning to rent a house, don't bring less than 4,500. But the most important thing is to ensure you have a roof over your head, food, and some money to live on until you find a job."
Reactions: doubts, warnings, and recommendations
The responses to the video show an active community with diverse opinions. “I’m staying in Suriname,” wrote one user. Another added, “What do you mean three months’ deposit? In Chile, they ask for one, and people complain.”
Some questioned the conditions of the pensions: “A pension for 9,000 pesos is a gathering of rats,” said an internet user, while another Uruguayan commented, “It’s not cheap, and you share the kitchen and bathroom with strangers.”
Several users offered helpful advice: “The cheapest option is the border: Artigas or Rivera, everything costs half the price,” commented one user. Another added, “There are ways to obtain the rental guarantee along with the policy. You just need to have your ID.” They also recommended budget-friendly stores like Carlos Gutiérrez or liquidation markets.
Amidst the comments, critical voices also emerged regarding the cost of living in Uruguay: "It's an expensive country; well, it might be better than others in the region, but food is already pricey and taxes... you need to have a good job," reflected a Uruguayan.
Testimonies that build a migratory narrative
This testimony adds to other accounts from Cubans in Uruguay who share on social media what it is like to start from scratch away from the island. Just a few days ago, a Cuban recalled the drama of public transportation in Cuba and compared it to accessibility in Montevideo: “Many times I had to hang from the door. Literally.”
In February, another young Cuban responded to criticisms about Montevideo, stating that “for me, this is development” and challenged those who spoke negatively about the country to “live like an average Cuban on the island” before making comparisons.
Another widely discussed case is that of Lisset Catalina, who shared how she managed to overcome difficulties and build a stable life: "My country is Uruguay, and I have no plans to emigrate to any other country."
The stories of Cuban migrants in Uruguay are multiplying and form part of a narrative that, amidst difficulties, effort, and gratitude, is shaping the collective testimony of a community striving to rebuild their lives outside of Cuba.
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