A Cuban mother has gone viral on social media after taking a substantial amount of food from an all-inclusive hotel, in what many users are calling a “survival feat” amid the food crisis affecting Cuba.
The video was shared on Instagram by content creator Christian León (@chris_christian_oficial), who reported that his mother stayed at a resort—probably in Varadero—and upon finishing her stay, she returned home with a bag full of groceries: various types of bread, pastries, cold cuts, cheeses, and even meats.
The young man looks surprised and a bit embarrassed by his mom's behavior because she "cleaned out" the buffet. While recording the scene, she distractedly asks him: "And who are you going to show that video to?".
The audiovisual lasts a few seconds but leaves a lasting impression. It is generating a lot of debate on social media, and the comments reflect both humor and resignation in the face of the Cuban reality.
That's not stealing, she paid to be at the hotel and took what she wanted,” said one of the many users who applauded the food collection that this woman carried out at the resort.
Among the reactions, phrases such as "that was the purchase of the month", "we have to make the most of the dollars spent", "my mom used to do the same"; and "that comes from the need that Cubans experience" can be read.
Other comments addressed the more serious background: "how sad to have to do this... my God, how this people needs freedom" or "getting food by any means to survive is not stealing, it's surviving."
The story told with humor portrays a critical situation
In Cuba, the scarcity of food has led many families to seek alternative ways to supply themselves, even during a holiday that should be for resting and disconnecting, Cubans are preoccupied with finding ways to recoup, in some manner, the money spent on leisure.
The actions of this woman, more than just controversial, have been seen as a symbol of ingenuity and necessity. In a country where basic products have become a luxury and daily survival requires creativity, what happened in that hotel is not just a viral anecdote: it reflects a reality that affects those living on the island.
Frequently asked questions about the food crisis in Cuba and the virality of a video on social media
Why has the video of the Cuban mother taking food from the hotel gone viral?
The video has gone viral because it reflects the creativity and necessity of Cubans amid the food crisis that the island is facing, generating both humor and resignation among social media users.
How does the food crisis in Cuba affect the daily lives of families?
The food crisis in Cuba has forced many families to seek alternative ways to supply themselves, even during holidays. Shortages of basic products turn daily survival into a constant challenge, pushing people to take inventive measures to secure their food.
What criticisms has the Cuban government faced regarding its management of the food crisis?
The Cuban government has been criticized for prioritizing investment in tourism over agriculture, which has exacerbated food shortages. In 2024, only 2.7% of investments were allocated to agriculture, while tourism received over 36.8 billion CUP.
How is inequality in Cuba reflected in access to food and resources?
The inequality in Cuba is reflected in that tourists and those with access to foreign currency can enjoy abundant buffets at hotels, while the majority of the population faces a shortage of food and basic products. This situation generates frustration and indignation among Cubans who do not have access to these resources.
Filed under:
