A young Cuban, identified on TikTok as @danycblike_10, has sparked debate on social media after posting a video highlighting some differences that surprised her after moving from Europe to the United States.
"Things that surprised me about the United States, as a Cuban Spaniard, and I am going to explain why," she begins saying in the video, which lasts just over two minutes. The post, which has garnered dozens of reactions, addresses topics such as the environment, consumption, and pollution.
Among the aspects that stood out, one of the most discussed was the excessive use of plastic bags in American supermarkets. "If you buy 10 products, you end up taking almost 5 plastic bags, and you don't have to pay for them. When did you see that in Europe?" he questioned, comparing it to what he experienced in Spain: "In Europe, they would give you a plastic bag, but you had to pay for it, and I remember that mainly at Mercadona, or if you went to Lidl or something like that, they would give you paper bags."
The TikToker also expressed environmental concern: “What about the little turtles? Weren't they shown that they suffocate with plastic bags? Well, no, they don't care.”
Another topic discussed was vehicular pollution: “Sometimes when I'm driving, cars are releasing black fumes that make you think... Come on, if it's in front of me, it's going to stain my bumper,” he commented. He also compared the situation to Spain, where technical inspections like the ITV are conducted: “They don't have ITV here like they do in Spain.”
He also mentioned the proportions of consumption in the United States: “Sometimes you go to buy a package of cookies, the package of cookies is much larger... cereals, things like that, are just extremely big.”
The video generated multiple responses from other users. Some pointed out that the experience varies depending on the state or city. “I’m in Florida, how good that it’s like that in TX,” the creator replied to a comment about supermarkets in Texas that no longer provide free bags. She also mentioned that “the only place where they don’t give me bags is at Costco, but normally I take my own everywhere because I adapted in Europe.”
In a previous post, the same creator shared her experience with traffic in Miami, highlighting the differences in road education and pedestrian treatment between Spain and the United States.
Additionally, in another viral video, the Cuban had compared everyday aspects such as the use of dryers, public transportation, and work hours, which also stirred mixed reactions among internet users on both sides of the Atlantic.
The comments on his videos often reveal divided opinions: while some share their critiques or similar experiences, others defend cultural differences or question his perspective. Despite the controversies, his posts have opened a space for conversation about the adaptation of Cuban migrants to various realities abroad.
Differences between living in Spain and the United States according to a Cuban migrant
What are the main differences in the use of plastic bags between the United States and Spain?
In the United States, the use of plastic bags is excessive and usually free in supermarkets, while in Spain, they are charged and are often made of paper. Environmental concern is significant, as Europe encourages reducing plastic use to protect marine wildlife.
How is vehicle pollution perceived in the United States compared to Spain?
The vehicular pollution in the United States is noticeable, with cars emitting visible gases, which contrasts with Spain, where stricter technical inspections are conducted to control these emissions. This reflects a difference in the approach to the environment between the two countries.
What differences have you noticed in traffic and road education between Miami and Spanish cities?
In Miami, traffic is described as chaotic and road education is lacking, with few pedestrian crossings and disrespectful drivers. In contrast, in Spain, pedestrians are given more respect and there are infrastructures such as roundabouts and pedestrian crossings that promote better traffic organization.
How does the size of products affect consumption in the United States?
In the United States, products are often much larger in size, which can encourage excessive consumption. This contrasts with Europe, where sizes are more moderate, promoting more conscious and sustainable consumption.
What cultural differences does a Cuban woman face when moving from Spain to the United States?
The cultural differences between Spain and the United States include aspects such as consumption, traffic, and environmental awareness. In the United States, the use of plastic bags is more prevalent, traffic is more chaotic, and products are larger, while in Spain there is a greater concern for the environment and better road safety education.
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