A young Cuban currently living in Miami sparked a wave of reactions on TikTok after posting a video in which she discusses some of the most significant differences that she has experienced after moving from Spain to the United States. The video was posted under the username @danycblike_10 and has already garnered hundreds of comments.
Dany, as he identifies himself on social media, reflects on practical aspects of daily life, such as laundry, public transport, and work organization. “In Spain, we had a washer-dryer, but it didn't leave the clothes completely dry; they had to be hung. Here in Miami, whether at home or in the laundry, the clothes come out dry and hot,” he stated.
The statement provoked a flood of responses, many of which contradicted her experience or offered nuances from different regions of Spain. One user reacted sarcastically, saying, "You used the wrong appliance; you didn't have a dryer, you had a washing machine with a spin cycle," while another wrote, "I live here and have both a washer and a dryer. The clothes come out so dry they burn."
Several Spaniards and Cubans living in Europe joined the discussion. “That's because you didn't buy a good dryer, because they sell them in any store in Spain,” pointed out someone else. “There are also laundries on the street here; I take my winter blankets there,” added another. There were even humorous comments like, “I think your dryer was broken and you never realized.”
Dany also commented that in Miami she was forced to buy a car due to the deficiencies of public transportation, especially in the Kendall area. “Here, if you don't have a car, it’s very difficult. Transportation in downtown Miami is better, but the wait times are very long. It's not like in Spain, where it’s more efficient.”
Regarding food, he celebrated the abundance of tropical fruits and Cuban products in Miami, comparing it to the more limited selection he experienced in Spain. He also criticized the split working hours in the Spanish labor market, particularly in the hospitality sector, describing it as exhausting. "Here, we work straight through, and I see that as an advantage," he expressed.
The controversy continued in the comments: “I’m shocked by people who talk about Spain as if it were a third world country,” expressed an outraged internet user. “In Spain, the food is much better, with fewer additives. In the U.S., everything is processed,” wrote another user. “The split schedule is terrible; the day doesn't flow. You leave at 4 and have to come back at 7 to work until 11 pm,” commented a woman. “In the U.S., you even have to pay for getting sick; here in Spain, healthcare is free if you contribute,” added another.
Some comments also defended the young woman: “She is sharing her experience. Don't get so upset, it’s not a comparison meant to offend,” said a user. Another supported her, stating: “What she says about line drying is true; in Europe, it is still very common to dry clothes in the sun.”
Dany responded to several comments clarifying that her video reflects her personal perspective: “I’m not saying there are no dryers in Spain, but you still see many clotheslines, something that doesn’t exist here in Miami.” She also added that, although she enjoys her new life, she misses certain things about Spain: “There I have family, and it was a beautiful chapter. Life is made up of chapters; I adapt to both places.”
Beyond the debate, his video reflects the cultural contrast experienced by many Cubans who emigrate and must adapt to new ways of life. In this case, the conversation about appliances, transportation, or food opened a broader window into what it means to live abroad and construct an identity between two worlds.
Frequently Asked Questions about the migration experience of Cubans to Miami and cultural differences
What is public transportation like in Miami according to the experiences of Cuban migrants?
According to Dany, a Cuban who moved to Miami, public transportation in Miami is inadequate. This led her to purchase a car to make her travel easier. While she mentions that transportation in downtown Miami is better, she criticizes its long hours compared to the more efficient public transport she experienced in Spain.
What differences are there in the food offerings between Miami and Spain according to Cuban migrants?
Dany, the young Cuban, notes that Miami has a greater abundance of tropical fruits and Cuban products compared to Spain. However, she also faced criticism regarding the quality of food in the United States, as some users claim that the food is more processed compared to the more natural offerings with fewer additives in Spain.
How do Cubans adapt to cultural differences when emigrating to Miami?
Cubans migrating to Miami face a cultural shock as they adapt to new ways of life, such as the use of household appliances, the transportation system, and eating habits. Despite the criticisms and noticeable differences, many migrants value the opportunities and benefits they find in Miami, while missing aspects of life in their home countries, such as family closeness and certain cultural elements.
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