A video recently posted on TikTok by user @annysrfls has generated hundreds of reactions among Cuban internet users, featuring a brief car ride through a street in Holguín, in eastern Cuba.
In the clip, accompanied by the text "A small part of my cast in Holguín right now!! Do you know which one it is?" and two crying face emojis, a scene of modest housing, narrow streets, and classic vehicles is depicted, set in a typically Cuban urban environment.
The video invites collective identification: many users try to guess which neighborhood it depicts, blending nostalgia with everyday reality.
Although the author does not specify the name of the cast, the buildings and the surroundings refer to well-known neighborhoods in the city, such as Alcides Pino, Hilda Torres, Pueblo Nuevo, or La Quinta.
This type of publication has become increasingly common on social media, where Cubans both inside and outside the country share images of their neighborhoods, streets, and memories, reinforcing the sense of belonging and emotional connection to their homeland.
Holguín, one of the most important cities in eastern Cuba, is characterized by its blend of traditional architecture, expanding urban development, and visible challenges related to the deterioration of infrastructure—issues that the regime has failed to address for decades.
The video, which has been shared from the account @annysrfls on TikTok, has reached thousands of views and has become a meeting place for those who recognize the streets of their childhood or youth, and now see them from a distance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nostalgia and Reunions in Holguín and Cuba
Why do videos of Holguín evoke so much nostalgia among Cubans?
The videos of Holguín evoke nostalgia because they showcase everyday scenes that bring back memories of many Cubans' childhood and youth, especially for those who have emigrated and have not been able to return. The images of familiar neighborhoods and streets strike a deep emotional chord, reflecting the connection to their homeland and the longing to see those places in person again.
How has the migration exodus impacted urban life in Holguín?
The migratory exodus has left its marks on Holguín, reflected in emptier streets and a sense of desolation compared to past times. Mass emigration has impacted the social and economic life of the city, diminishing urban activity and contributing to an aging population. These changes are evident in the videos shared by Cubans from abroad.
What does it mean for Cubans to return to their homeland after years of separation?
Returning to one's homeland represents a mixture of excitement and strangeness for Cubans who have been away for long periods. These reunions are filled with intense feelings, such as the joy of embracing family again and the nostalgia for lost time. However, they may also encounter a sense of not belonging due to the changes that have occurred during their absence.
What is the current situation of the infrastructure in Holguín?
The infrastructure in Holguín is facing significant deterioration, a result of decades of neglect by the Cuban regime. Issues such as poorly maintained streets and deteriorating buildings are common in the city, reflecting a context of institutional abandonment and a lack of resources to maintain and improve urban spaces.
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