A Cuban residing in Miami shared on social media the reasons he left Spain and moved to the United States. "Spain started to smell like Cuba to me," he said, sparking an intense debate among migrants.
The young man, identified as Mr. Marqués, shared on his TikTok profile @mr_marquesss his perception of Spain, a country where he lived for nearly seven years before emigrating to the United States. In his words, "Spain started to smell like Cuba", a phrase that generated multiple reactions among Cubans both inside and outside of the European country.
The video, recorded from Miami, collects his migratory experience from Cuba to Spain, and subsequently to the United States, where he claims to have lived for three years. “I feel a tremendous love for Spain,” he stated, but pointed out that he began to notice similarities with the situation in Cuba, which motivated him to change countries once again.
"We Cubans come from the future. What is happening in Spain, we have already experienced," he commented, without going into specific details but leaving the door open for future, more developed publications on his arguments.
Although he made it clear that he does not intend to offend or make derogatory comparisons, he emphasized that some social and political aspects of Spain reminded him of the Cuban reality. "There may be people who say yes, there may be people who say no," he stated, inviting his followers to comment if they want more details.
The post garnered dozens of comments reflecting the diversity of opinions among Cubans abroad. Some supported it wholeheartedly: "You are absolutely right from the R to the N," wrote a user from Tenerife. Another commented: "Leave me here in the Yuma, as we Cubans say."
Others defended life in Spain, highlighting its advantages in terms of quality of life, safety, and public services. One internet user responded, "Spain is a consolidated democracy. Of course, life is better there than here."
Mr. Marqués himself actively participated in the comments, responding to those who questioned him and reaffirming his perspective: “There are little things happening that remind me of my country.”
The comparison between living in Spain and in the United States has become a recurring topic among Cubans on social media. Several content creators have shared their experiences, reinforcing the interest in these kinds of discussions.
In May 2024, the Cuban chef Dailis Ferrer, known as @recetacubana, shared her reasons for considering moving to the United States, mentioning political, economic, and social media monetization factors. At the same time, she also explained why she decided not to move to the United States, citing issues such as gun use, language, safety, and access to the European Union.
Other creators like @niurki2107 have also sparked debate with reflections on the differences in transportation, food, and culture between both countries.
The creator Iser Ramos, known on TikTok as @iser.ramos, also made a comparison between both countries, highlighting the cost of living, the sense of belonging, labor rights, and conditions for immigrants.
Mr. Marqués' reflection is part of a broader conversation that spans the entire Cuban diaspora, where migratory decisions are shaped by personal experiences, political perceptions, economic aspirations, and shifting realities in both Europe and the United States. While some continue to advocate for life in Spain, others maintain that "el Yuma" offers more opportunities… albeit at a high cost.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Migration of Cubans from Spain to the United States
Why do some Cubans living in Spain decide to emigrate to the United States?
Many Cubans who have lived in Spain choose to emigrate to the United States because they perceive similarities between the social and political situation in Spain and that of Cuba, which worries them. They seek better economic opportunities and a more stable political environment than what they find in Spain.
What similarities do Cubans see between Spain and Cuba?
Some Cubans, like Mr. Marqués, have pointed out that social and political aspects in Spain remind them of the Cuban reality. Although not clearly specified in the article, there are concerns about the rising cost of living, public health, and the political situation in general.
What are the reactions of Cubans living in the United States regarding their life in Spain?
Among the Cubans who have emigrated from Spain to the United States, there is a diversity of opinions. While some, like Mr. Marqués, find concerning similarities between Spain and Cuba, others appreciate the opportunities that Spain offered them. The comparison between both countries is a recurring topic and generates divided opinions among those who advocate for the quality of life in Spain and those who prefer the opportunities in the United States.
What do Cubans think about the quality of life in Spain and the United States?
Opinions vary among the Cuban community abroad. Some highlight the quality of life, security, and public services in Spain, while others appreciate the greater economic opportunities and personal development they find in the United States. This debate reflects the different priorities and personal experiences of Cuban migrants.
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