A Cuban has sparked a heated debate on social media after sharing a video from the beaches of Varadero, accompanied by a powerful message against the life of émigrés who work long hours abroad.
"Better than being in construction with your boss above you wearing a hard hat," says the TikToker Leo Velcalderín, as he shows the deserted beach in the early hours of the day. In his recording, he contrasts the tranquility of the natural Cuban environment with what he describes as a life of modern slavery abroad.
“Stop deceiving people by saying that you live well over there. You are a modern wage slave; you don’t have your own life. Your life is controlled by your boss. Don't tell people that you have a house and that you have a car. You don’t own anything; all of that belongs to the bank, and you owe it all,” Velcalderín states in his video.
The creator, who identifies as a resident of the island, claims that many emigrants attempt to sell an unrealistic image of success. “All you’re going to achieve is losing your hair and everything else, because you’re in the cemetery of dead hopes, in the land of the living dead,” he asserts in a colloquial and provocative manner.
Velcalderín says he prefers life in Cuba, despite the daily challenges. "I’d rather be in my homeland with power outages, eating a mango or a fried egg, but having time to live, share with my friends, and enjoy my family, because those are the true things that really matter in life. There, no one cares for anyone, there’s no family, no friends, nobody," he concludes.
The video has sparked multiple reactions among Cuban users, both inside and outside the country, who are debating in the comments about the validity of the arguments and the contrasting realities between life in Cuba and emigration.
Frequently Asked Questions about Life in Cuba and Emigration
Why has the video of the Cuban TikToker generated so much debate?
The video from the Cuban TikToker sparked debate as it contrasts the tranquility and beauty of Varadero's beaches with life abroad, labeling the latter as a form of "modern slavery." This has led to mixed reactions among Cubans, both on the island and overseas, who express their opinions on the advantages and disadvantages of living in Cuba versus emigrating.
What arguments does the TikToker use to prefer life in Cuba?
The TikToker argues that, despite challenges like blackouts, he prefers life in Cuba because it allows him free time to enjoy with family and friends. He criticizes life abroad as an existence without its own life, controlled by debts and long working hours.
How do Cubans react to these comparisons between Cuba and other countries?
The reactions are mixed: some Cubans defend life in Cuba highlighting its nature and family life, while others argue that these aspects do not compensate for the lack of freedoms and economic opportunities. There is an ongoing debate about whether the economic sacrifice abroad justifies the improvement in quality of life.
What do tourists say about the situation in Cuba?
Tourists often highlight Cuba's natural beauty, but they also point out the challenges faced by its inhabitants, such as food shortages and blackouts. This contrast between the tourist image and the daily reality of Cubans evokes surprise and criticism towards the regime for its management of the country.
What is the general perception of tourism in Cuba according to videos on social media?
The general perception is critical, as many videos on social media show the lack of tourists, high prices, and poor infrastructure conditions. This contrasts with the image that the government attempts to project, highlighting the structural crisis of tourism on the island.
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