The Cuban user @elianni9505, residing in the United States, shared on TikTok her recent travel experience to Cuba. In a video lasting over four minutes, the young mother recounts her departure from and return to the North American country, amidst growing fear among Cubans in exile regarding potential immigration consequences.
"Everything was wonderful, both the outbound and the return journey," she stated, clarifying that her account is based solely on her personal experience. She explained that she flew directly from Houston to Cuba and that upon returning, they only requested her residency and took a photo to verify her identity. "They said the typical phrase: 'Welcome to the United States.' Nothing more," she confirmed.
The young woman directed her message especially to Cuban mothers with legal residency in the U.S. who are afraid to travel to the island: “Don’t be afraid. Nothing is happening at the moment.”
According to his explanation, his trip was justified for family reasons: his daughter is still in Cuba. “I feel that this weighs heavily when you have your children and parents there,” he said, urging those in similar situations not to be overcome by panic: “Nothing is happening today, but tomorrow the laws may change. Then they will be left with the thought of 'I could have gone earlier and didn't.'”
He also made a clear recommendation: if the trip doesn't have a strong urgent or family reason, it's better not to go. "It's not something you can justify if you encounter a questionnaire," he warned.
The video, which has been viewed and commented on by dozens of users, generated a wave of mixed reactions. Some expressed gratitude for the testimony and shared similar experiences: “They didn’t ask me anything either, I just looked at the camera and that was it,” wrote one user. Others, however, raised concerns about potential future consequences, especially for those who entered the U.S. by land: “You’re putting your citizenship at risk,” warned another user.
Several people took the opportunity to ask practical questions, such as the ticket price, which airline was used, or how the trip was managed with a baby. There were also comments from mothers who still have their children in Cuba and feel relief and hope after hearing the testimony.
This is not the first time that @elianni9505 has used her social media to guide other Cubans. Last January, she shared her strategy for traveling to Cuba with a baby. At that time, she recommended sending essential items like diapers, powdered milk, and medications in advance through an agency to avoid issues with luggage. "This can help many," she said back then, earning the gratitude of other mothers.
The experience of this young mother adds to a growing debate within the Cuban community abroad, where returning to the island—even for family reasons—generates controversy and opposing views. Just a few days earlier, influencer Diana Fleites (@ayylolaaa) defended her visit to Cuba with an emotional message: “I didn’t come for a government, I came for the man who taught me to walk,” referring to her father.
Like her, other content creators have appealed to personal and emotional reasons to justify their travels, noting that family reunification remains an emotional priority for many Cubans, despite political tensions.
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