María Elena and Alanix (@victorymariyalanix), a Cuban couple who have lived in Florida for 14 years, have gone viral after sharing on TikTok how they decided to radically change their lives: to leave their steady jobs in Tampa to live and travel across the United States in a van converted into a home.
“We are people who venture out. We lived in Tampa, Florida, and we set off to explore the United States. Each state has its own culture. We have visited many places,” María Elena shared in one of her most viewed videos.
The couple customized their own van, to which they added a trailer to carry construction tools. In addition, they rent out their house in Tampa through Airbnb, allowing them to fund their travels and live without bosses or schedules. “We do some jobs to make ends meet, to travel, and to indulge ourselves, such as going to restaurants and sightseeing. In each state, we buy something to keep as a memento,” the Cuban explained.
The testimonies of both not only drew attention due to their alternative lifestyle but also for the inspiring message they share: “Anyone can do this. We are Cubans and we have chosen not to work fixed jobs anymore, to venture out and explore this country.”
The story has generated a wave of positive reactions on TikTok. Many users are congratulating them for their bravery, while others express their desire to follow in their footsteps
"That's just like the American dream, congratulations."
"Having your own life and being the owner of your work is admirable."
"I want to do the same. I am Cuban and I live near Tampa as well."
"That's my American dream: to buy a camper and travel around the United States."
"Many successes, you are a role model."
Some older individuals also expressed their excitement, like a 72-year-old user who said, "I would like to do the same, to follow you. I need to buy one like that to drive it myself."
The Cuban community in the U.S. has identified with the history and has shown strong support.
As they continue their journey, this couple from Cuba keeps documenting every step of their adventure on TikTok, where they gain new followers daily. "Life is one and it must be lived," Alanix summarized in one of their messages.
Frequently asked questions about van life and the nomadic lifestyle in the U.S.
How do María Elena and Alanix manage to finance their nomadic lifestyle?
The couple rents out their house in Tampa through Airbnb and does occasional work to cover their expenses. This combination allows them to live without bosses or schedules, while exploring the United States at their own pace.
What motivated this Cuban couple to adopt a van life?
María Elena y Alanix decidieron dejar sus trabajos fijos porque they wanted to venture out and get to know the United States. Inspirados por la diversidad cultural de cada estado, optaron por una vida más libre y sin ataduras a un lugar específico.
What impact has the story of this couple had on the Cuban community in the U.S.?
The story of María Elena and Alanix has profoundly resonated within the Cuban community, generating a wave of positive reactions. Many Cubans feel inspired by their bravery and wish to follow in their footsteps towards a more free and adventurous lifestyle.
What are the challenges of living in a van or RV in the United States?
Living in a van or motorhome involves challenges such as adapting to a limited space and managing basic services. Additionally, it is essential to have flexibility in finding places to park and reside temporarily, as well as to address logistical and vehicle maintenance issues.
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