A Cuban content creator living in the United States has caused a stir on TikTok after sharing a video from a private sweets shop in Havana, where she ordered desserts for her daughter's baptism. According to her, the place is excellent, but the prices are not affordable for everyone on the island.
“It's good but expensive for Cubans. That's the reality, but I paid for it without issue and I recommend it,” commented Rosy, known on social media as @tu_viaje_con_rosy, while showcasing the products she bought at the establishment located in downtown Havana.
The post quickly sparked a wave of divided reactions. While some users expressed their gratitude for the recommendation and shared similar experiences, others criticized it harshly for promoting a place that many Cubans cannot access. "How sad it is that only those from outside can afford such simple pleasures that are a luxury over there," wrote a follower. Another questioned her: "A sweet treat costs more than a salary in Cuba, how far have we come?"
In the midst of the debate, some comments pointed out that Rosy ignored the reality of the country and only highlighted the beautiful aspects. In response, she defended herself directly: "Yes, I am a content creator, so what? I say it’s expensive because that's the truth: the average Cuban cannot afford it for their child. That's why I repeat it often."
Far from softening her stance, Rosy continued to respond to the challenges, asserting that she showed what she considered useful for her audience. "The place was full of everyday Cubans. Where do they get the money? I don't know. My family can't go there, but I said that too." And in response to those who accused her of frivolity, she was even clearer: "A lot of pain, I saw elderly people eating from the trash."
The debate went beyond the price of sweets and touched on a sensitive issue: the representation of life in Cuba from the perspective of those who visit with access to foreign currency. For some, showcasing private businesses serves to overshadow the scarcity faced by a large part of the population. For others, sharing these spaces can be helpful for those planning trips and having relatives they wish to assist or send products to.
Rosy, for her part, asserts that her intention is not to "inflame" the Cuban reality or to engage in propaganda. “I return for my family, not to create a narrative,” she wrote in another response. She also stated that she helps those she can and has even given away items on the street during her stay.
This episode brings to the forefront the significant gap between Cubans inside and outside the island, as well as the delicate balance between revealing reality, generating content, and not losing sight of the social context that shapes daily life in Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about Access to Products and the Economic Situation in Cuba
Why did the recommendation of a candy shop in Havana spark controversy?
The recommendation from the candy store sparked controversy due to the high prices of its products, which are unaffordable for most Cubans. Although content creator Rosy recommended the place for its quality, she acknowledged that the prices are prohibitive for the local population, leading to criticism regarding the portrayal of Cuban reality from a privileged perspective.
How does dollarization affect the Cuban economy?
The partial dollarization in Cuba has deepened economic inequality. The stores that operate in dollars offer products that are inaccessible to those who receive their salaries in Cuban pesos. This creates a parallel market that can only be accessed by those who receive remittances or have access to foreign currency, further exacerbating economic segmentation.
What impact does foreign aid have on Cuban families?
Assistance from abroad is crucial for many Cuban families, but it also generates tensions and debates. While some view these shipments of goods and money as a necessity in the face of the economic crisis on the island, others argue that they can foster dependency and are not always appreciated. This dilemma reflects the complexity of the relationships between emigrants and their relatives in Cuba.
What realities lie behind the images of well-stocked stores in Cuba?
The images of well-stocked stores in Cuba do not reflect the reality of the majority of the population. While some establishments display shelves full of imported products, most Cubans cannot afford them due to their prices in dollars. This contrast highlights the inequality and economic difficulties faced by the Cuban people in their daily lives.
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