A Cuban residing in the United States shared her experience on TikTok upon returning from Cuba, surprising her followers by stating that, for the first time, she was not questioned at the airport or taken to the "cuartico," as many Cuban travelers commonly fear.
"I just returned from Cuba, and as you all know, we always live with the fear of what they might ask or if they will take us to the little room. Well, nothing, my trip was a blessing. I can tell you that they didn’t ask me anything," said the user identified as @migdreysiperez in her video.
According to her, the immigration officers only asked if she was bringing food. “I wasn’t carrying anything, just my baby’s diaper bag, because I put my carry-on luggage underneath the plane. I was alone with my child, and I don’t know if that was the reason, but they didn’t ask me anything, just for my residency and passport, and then they opened the door for me,” she remarked.
The young woman added that this was her third time traveling to Cuba and that, in the previous two visits, she had always been taken to a review room. “Last year, they put me in with my husband and my child, and all the questions were directed at him. But this time was the quickest of all,” she shared.
"Don't be afraid, always with God's blessing, which is the most important thing. Sometimes they try to instill fear in us, but nothing happened to me. I wish all those who are going to travel a safe journey, and may God bless you," concluded the Cuban in her testimony, which has already gathered hundreds of comments on social media.
Her account reflects the diverse experiences of Cubans residing in the United States when they travel to the island and return, in a context where many fear interrogations or thorough inspections at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Return of Cubans from Cuba to the United States
Is it common for Cubans to be questioned upon returning to the U.S. from Cuba?
The experience varies among travelers. Some Cubans report being taken to the "cuartico" for questioning, while others, like the user @migdreysiperez, have passed through without issues. The treatment may depend on the immigration officer and the traveler's history.
What questions do immigration officers typically ask Cubans returning from the island?
Common questions include the purpose of the trip, length of stay, and whether they have anything to declare. In the case of @migdreysiperez, they were only asked if they were bringing food. Other travelers have reported additional questions regarding their residence and passport.
Is it safe for Cubans residing in the U.S. to travel to Cuba?
Many Cubans, like @saylin4020, have traveled without issues. However, there is always a degree of uncertainty due to variations in immigration procedures. It is advisable to stay informed and prepared for any eventuality.
What recommendations are there for Cubans who are thinking of traveling to Cuba and then returning to the U.S.?
It's helpful to have all the documents in order and to be prepared to answer basic questions. It is also recommended not to be swayed by alarming rumors on social media, as several TikTok users have shared in their experiences.
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