A Cuban woman has taken TikTok by storm after sharing her migration experience between Spain and the United States, and what she said has made a strong impact: “Living as a lower-class individual in Spain and the U.S. is not the same.” This is how user @alietty_livestyle began her video, and what followed was a testimony that was as honest as it was controversial, triggering a true avalanche of reactions.
According to him, he lived for ten years on an island in Gran Canaria, where he worked "in whatever came up": supermarkets, cleaning, caring for the elderly... Whatever was available. "That's what happens when you migrate without papers and without knowing the lay of the land," he said. Although he initially worked "off the books," he claims that in Spain this is not as common as in the United States, where — in his experience — there are more opportunities to work "under the table."
With the proper documentation in order, he never lacked work, although he couldn't choose too freely. Even so, with his salary he covered the basics and a bit more: rent, food, and, most importantly, his peace of mind. “I even indulged myself by going to Cuba every two years, which is not cheap at all, and along the way, I got to know other countries in Europe,” he recounted. But then... why change all of that?
"Like many, I fell for the tale of the American dream," he confessed. But the dream, he says, turned into insomnia. “Here you earn more, yes, but you live worse. Rents are absurd, the food is bad, and mental peace is declining,” he lamented. In his most poignant reflection, he asked: “What good is it to have money if I have no time or mental health?”
The video, which has sparked excitement on TikTok, came with a caption that sums up the sentiment: "My experience in Spain is one worth repeating. I wish I hadn't made the decision to come here." And of course, the comments poured in by the hundreds, like a gust of wind during carnival.
"I feel the same way. I lived in Spain for 14 years, moved to the U.S., and it was the worst mistake. I was earning well here, but I wouldn't trade my peace for another thousand dollars," said one user. "In Spain, we work to live; here, we live to work," added another. And Cubans weren't the only ones sharing their opinions: even Spaniards joined the debate to confirm that life there, although with less money, allows for greater well-being.
Of course, there were those who defended the American system fiercely. But the truth is that this Cuban held nothing back and created a space for many, both inside and outside the United States, to speak about what few dare to: that having more does not always mean living better. And you, which side are you on?
Frequently asked questions about the emigration of Cubans to Spain and the United States
Why do some Cubans prefer Spain over the United States?
Many Cubans prefer Spain because, although they earn less money compared to the United States, the quality of life is perceived as better. In Spain, the cost of living is lower, and there is a balance between work and personal life, which allows for mental peace and certain luxuries, such as traveling. Additionally, the opportunity to work legally and social security are appealing factors for emigrants.
What are the main complaints of Cubans who emigrate to the United States?
The main complaints of Cubans who emigrate to the United States include the high cost of living, especially in rent and food, and the constant pressure to work long hours. Some emigrants mention that the "American Dream" involves sacrificing personal time and mental well-being, as intense workdays can lead to a stressful lifestyle where one lives to work, not to enjoy life.
What differences do Cubans highlight between living in Spain and in the United States?
The key difference highlighted by many Cubans is the balance between work and personal life. In Spain, despite lower salaries, there is a noticeable higher quality of life and tranquility, while in the United States, although incomes are higher, work demands are greater, which can impact mental health and the time available to enjoy social and family life.
Why do some Cubans choose to return to Cuba or Europe from the United States?
Some Cubans decide to return to Cuba or Europe from the United States because they seek to regain a sense of community, emotional stability, and peace of mind that they feel has been lost in the American way of life. Additionally, the desire to be close to their families and the perception of a less stressful life in their home countries or in Europe are factors that influence this decision.
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