A young Cuban residing on the island has sparked a widespread debate on TikTok by sharing a video in which she questions the decision of some emigrants to return to live in Cuba, claiming that the reality of the country is not as portrayed by certain influencers.
I'm going to drop a fact, and let anyone get upset if they want to," begins the user @izygamer5, who spoke to those returning to the island after living abroad. She claims that many of them do so to "set up a small business for a few bucks" and to avoid the effort that comes with working in the United States, where "sometimes the numbers just don't add up."
The young woman claims that in Cuba, one can stay for free at the homes of family or friends and take advantage of the informal economy, but she warns that, with the constant power outages, the situation quickly becomes unsustainable. “When you've been in this country for a month, which doesn't even give you time to charge an ecoflow (...) when your food runs out, (...) what are you going to do, my dear?” she says, referring to the collapse of the energy system and the difficulties in preserving food.
It also criticizes those who return with the idea of "inflating" and points to the influencers who, from their perspective, promote a distorted image of life in Cuba: “Because of all these people, a lot are looking back and regretting it afterward.”
The video has garnered hundreds of comments, many of which are divided. While some users praise the frankness of @izygamer5, others challenge her for generalizing or for expressing views they consider limited. “Not everyone returns to ‘inflate’,” wrote one user, arguing that there are those who come back for family reasons or because they could not legalize their status in the U.S. Others criticize her for speaking about the country's difficulties while showcasing a recent manicure: “Are the nails done for free or do they cost money?” one commenter joked.
Some even ask about terms mentioned in the video, such as "ecoflow," referring to portable rechargeable generators or batteries, which many Cubans use to cope with power outages. There are also those who expressed resignation or sarcasm: "Let them face reality," one user wrote.
The controversy arises at a time when stories and testimonies of Cubans who, after years abroad, decide to return to the island are becoming more visible, motivated by reasons ranging from economic exhaustion to the need to be close to their loved ones.
The reggaeton artist El Micha explained his decision to return to Cuba, stating, “I don’t want to pay bills anymore, I’m going where people show you affection,” after denouncing the lack of support he received in the United States and expressing his aversion to the competitive atmosphere in the music industry in Miami.
The case of the Cuban-German Juan Carlos Hernández Mora illustrates the risks of investing in the island: he was sentenced for charges he deems unjust, lost his hostel, and was stripped of his home, becoming trapped in Cuba with no ability to leave until 2030.
There is also the case of the actor Juan Carlos Roque Moreno, who returned to the island last December after facing personal and professional difficulties in Spain, or that of the young woman Sheila Pérez, who came back to care for her grandfather, as well as cases of Cubans who share on social media the renovation of their homes in Cuba after leaving the United States.
The post by @izygamer5 not only presents a personal opinion but also reflects the growing polarization among Cubans inside and outside the island regarding what it means to stay, return, or rebuild a life between two worlds. A conflict that, far from being resolved, continues to gain visibility on social media.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Debate on Cubans Returning to the Island
Why do some Cubans choose to return to Cuba from abroad?
Some Cubans decide to return to Cuba due to family reasons, economic difficulties abroad, or nostalgia for their homeland. While many seek better opportunities outside, others choose to come back to be near their loved ones or because life abroad did not meet their expectations. Cases like that of Sheila Pérez, who returned to care for her grandfather, reflect the complexity and diversity of the personal motives behind this decision.
What criticisms do those returning to Cuba from abroad face?
Those returning to Cuba face criticism for underestimating the country's challenges, such as power outages and food shortages, and for idealizing life on the island after living abroad. Some are also questioned for returning temporarily or for projecting a lifestyle that does not reflect the country's economic reality. This phenomenon has sparked divisions and debates on social media, as seen in the case of @izygamer5, who warns about the difficult conditions in Cuba.
How is the image of Cuba perceived on social media?
The image of Cuba on social media is divided between those who highlight its economic problems and those who present a more idealized view. Tourists and some influencers showcase a Cuba of natural beauty and tourist experiences, while others, like Eileen Morales, expose the reality of blackouts, shortages, and the limitations of the political system. This contrast provokes debates about the true situation of the country and the experiences of its citizens.
What risks do Cubans face when they decide to invest in the island?
Cubans who decide to invest on the island face significant legal and economic risks. The case of Juan Carlos Hernández Mora, who was sentenced on charges he considers unjust and lost his guesthouse, illustrates the dangers of investing in an environment with a questionable judicial system and an unstable economy. These risks can lead to the loss of investments and situations of vulnerability within the country.
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