A Cuban in Santa Catarina, Brazil, has sparked debate on social media after posting a video in which he claims that the south of this South American country is “much better than Miami.” His direct comparison between the two migratory realities has generated numerous reactions, both in support and against.
The video shared on TikTok by the user @yoelglezponce begins with a direct statement: “I’m going to give you the reasons why, for me, southern Brazil is so much better than Miami right now.” Throughout the recording, he argues that although people earn more money in the United States, many end up spending it all on rent, while in Brazil, based on his experience, one can live well with just one job. “Here it’s peaceful, with a regular job you can survive and live,” he said.
He also criticizes the social environment in Miami, asserting that many Cubans living in the city engage in gossip and controversy. He explicitly mentioned the obsession with public figures in entertainment and criticized what he sees as "immigration officer" attitudes among some migrants. “They arrive in the United States and think they are more national than the Americans living there,” he stated.
Regarding the quality of life, he defended the Brazilian way of life, highlighting the geographical diversity, the beaches, the mild climate, and the friendly attitude of Brazilians. “You walk by him, and he says good morning. He cares about you, asks how Cuba is,” he explained, in contrast to what he believes happens in the United States.
The video has generated dozens of comments, with divided opinions. Some questioned his experience, accusing him of exaggerating or downplaying the real issues in the Brazilian context, while others agreed with his assessment, also sharing positive experiences from Brazil. Among the most common topics in the responses are the cost of living, violence in certain regions, and immigration difficulties.
This post adds to other testimonies from Cuban migrants sharing their views on living in Brazil compared to other options like the United States or Europe. One of them stated that, although it is neither the United States nor Europe, Brazil has provided him with real opportunities to start over.
A young migrant demonstrated how she builds her home brick by brick alongside her partner, asserting that emigrating was her way of transforming her life through hard work.
Another Cuban pointed out that Brazil cannot be compared to the United States because each migration experience is different, and success depends on individual effort.
In a similar reflection, another Cuban argued that Brazil is far from being a country without opportunities and questioned the stigmas with which it is sometimes judged from abroad.
From various perspectives, these testimonies reflect a common reality: the Cuban migration process is complex, lacking a single formula and not guaranteeing the same outcomes for everyone. However, Brazil, with its challenges and opportunities, continues to be one of the preferred routes for those seeking to start anew outside the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about Life Comparison between Brazil and Miami for Cuban Migrants
Why does a Cuban consider it better to live in southern Brazil than in Miami?
The Cuban argues that one can live well with just one job in southern Brazil, whereas in Miami, even though the income is higher, a large portion goes towards rent. He also emphasized the more friendly social atmosphere and quality of life in Brazil, with its temperate climate and geographic diversity, in stark contrast to the competitiveness and social issues found in Miami.
What are the criticisms of life in Miami according to the Cuban resident in Brazil?
The Cuban criticizes that in Miami many residents focus on gossip and controversy. He pointed out that some migrants behave like "immigration officers", displaying more pronounced nationalist attitudes than the Americans themselves. He also noted that the obsession with public figures is a common problem in the city.
What benefits do Cubans see in living in Brazil compared to other migration destinations?
The Cuban believes that Brazil offers real opportunities to start anew, despite not being the United States or Europe. He emphasizes that, although the cost of living has increased, this is a global situation. He also highlights the possibility of living on a single income and the friendliness of the Brazilian people as positive factors.
How has the Cuban community reacted to the comparisons between Brazil and Miami?
Reactions have been mixed. Some support the opinion of the Cuban and share positive experiences in Brazil, while others criticize his viewpoint, accusing him of downplaying the issues in the South American country. Responses frequently mention the cost of living, violence in certain regions, and migration difficulties in Brazil.
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