The Cuban TikTok creator @tiempo_con_oli shared a testimony about her adaptation process in Spain, focusing on the difficulties she has encountered in finding rental housing since her arrival in the country four months ago.
"I didn't know it was like this. Did they warn me? Yes. Did I think they were exaggerating? Also," she shares in the video, where she explains that she and her family were welcomed by a friend who offered them accommodation without charging rent and for as long as necessary. She describes that opportunity as "a blessing."
Initially, they thought they would quickly find a place to rent. "I told her that we would surely find a rental soon and that we didn't want to bother her too much," he explains. However, according to his account, the reality was different. "The rental situation in Spain is very difficult," he says, mentioning factors such as high demand, elevated prices, and the presence of "okupas," which, he claims, leads to them facing "thousands of requirements to be able to rent, not just money."
"We continue in our tireless search, but we will not give up, and I know that something will come up for us soon," he concludes.
The testimony has sparked dozens of reactions on social media, both from people who have had similar experiences and from others who are offering advice or commenting on the current state of the real estate market in Spain.
Some users recommend staying away from large cities: "Madrid or big cities are complicated for renting, better small towns, but there are difficulties with jobs, it's not easy" or "I advise you to choose a village." Another person commented: "I went through the same thing, but in the end, I made it."
There were also those who pointed out that location is not always the issue: "she lives in Valladolid," noted one user, to which another replied, "it's not an expensive place like others." However, the problem, according to several comments, is not just about money: "the issue is that there is no housing, and the little that is available is not rented out out of fear."
The fear of squatters also came up in the debate. One person wrote, "they ask for a lot of requirements for rentals, you are absolutely right," while another commented, "squatters yes, but renters also."
Other users shared their own stories: "it took me two years to be able to," "I lived it... and I was able to rent in the span of a month, but in a small town and with the help of a friend as a guarantor," or "I only had one month left after a year of searching for a rental."
Among the messages of support, there were also notes that read: "You are blessed if you don't pay rent, you've succeeded, I will help the lady without hesitation," or "Don't worry, it will work out, we found a place after almost a year, good luck and strength."
Criticism and questions were not lacking: "You occupy the ones who invade a friend's house and after 4 months still haven't left," someone commented, directly referencing the case. Another message suggested: "The first thing they need to do is make sure both get jobs, and if possible, secure permanent contracts; without a paycheck, forget about housing."
The story of @tiempo_con_oli adds to a series of testimonials shared on social media by Cubans recently arrived in Spain, reflecting both the initial excitement and the practical challenges of emigration.
The young @soyalicia_03 expressed her surprise on her first day in the country, from visiting a fast food restaurant to exploring supermarkets filled with products.
In another experience, @walkys__ shared the three things she wished she had known before emigrating: the slowness of the processes, the cultural differences in language, and the need to save for the first few months.
@yo_soykarlita, for her part, reflected on the feeling of emptiness that can accompany life outside of Cuba, despite having achieved her goal of emigrating.
These stories showcase the different facets of the migration process, where hope, adaptation, and day-to-day challenges coexist.
Frequently asked questions about renting and the migration experience in Spain for Cubans
Why is it so difficult to find rental housing in Spain?
The difficulty in finding rental housing in Spain is due to several factors, including the high demand for homes, elevated prices, and fear of "okupas." These aspects have led landlords to impose strict requirements on tenants, complicating access to housing, especially for newly arrived migrants.
What are the recommendations for finding housing in Spain?
It is advisable to consider living in small towns where competition for housing is less intense, although this may bring challenges in finding employment. Additionally, having the support of friends or family who can act as guarantors is beneficial, and one should be prepared to meet various bureaucratic and financial requirements.
How does the migration process affect Cubans in Spain?
The migration process can be challenging for Cubans in Spain due to cultural adaptation, bureaucracy, and economic and housing difficulties. However, many find that the effort is worthwhile for the quality of life and security that Spain offers compared to Cuba.
What cultural differences do Cubans face when emigrating to Spain?
Cubans face significant cultural differences when emigrating to Spain, such as language, social customs, and lifestyle. Aspects like the need to speak in a quieter tone, extensive bureaucracy, and cultural shock in terms of language are common challenges for newcomers.
What advantages does Spain offer to Cuban migrants despite the difficulties?
Spain offers significant advantages to Cuban migrants, such as an accessible public health system, social security, and a quality of life that includes lower economic pressure and the opportunity to enjoy small luxuries. These benefits, along with cultural proximity, are reasons that motivate many Cubans to choose Spain as a migration destination.
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