A couple of Cubans, two elderly individuals, were completely astonished to find in a small store in Mexico, very close to where they live, everything they need for their daily lives.
The video was shared on his TikTok account by Michel Crónicas (@michelcronicas), a Cuban YouTuber residing in Mexico who often shares his experiences and those of his parents in that country.
“I brought the good Don Manolo and my mom to a little store, as we say in Mexico, the corner store.” “We came for eggs, and here we are with fruits and sugar. What do you think of the corner store?” asks the content creator.
“A marvel like everything from Mexico. Mexico is a marvel, we love it, so much abundance,” said the astonished lady.
Both were surprised when they asked the lady in charge of the little store about various products and she had everything.
“You know that in Cuba we have nothing seriously wrong; let’s see if in 2025, which has just begun, there is a bit of progress over there,” the lady added.
Once at home, both expressed their joy for their purchases, still unable to believe that in such a small place they found items to meet the most basic needs.
Inevitably, time and again, comparisons with the reality of Cuba and the hardships experienced in the country emerged.
On one occasion, Michel Crónicas mentioned in another video that he felt like a millionaire in Mexico precisely because he lacked neither food, electricity, nor water.
On another occasion, he recorded his father's reaction upon entering a supermarket in Mexico, and he was brought to tears by the amount and variety of products available.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Experience of Cubans Abroad and the Situation in Cuba
Why are Cubans surprised when visiting stores abroad?
Cubans are surprised when visiting stores abroad due to the abundance and variety of products, something that contrasts sharply with the shortages they face in Cuba. This astonishment is a natural response to the possibility of finding everything needed for daily life all in one place, a reality that seems unattainable on the island.
How do Cubans feel about experiencing abundance in countries like Mexico?
Cuban people often experience a blend of wonder and excitement when encountering abundance in countries like Mexico. For many, this experience highlights the stark differences in quality of life and makes them appreciate more the opportunities and comforts that are now within their reach, which was not possible in Cuba.
What criticisms are made about the situation in Cuba compared to other countries?
The lack of access to basic goods and services in Cuba is being criticized, which limits the quality of life for its citizens. This situation is contrasted with the abundance that Cubans find when they emigrate to other countries, such as Mexico and Spain, where they enjoy freedoms and comforts that are nearly impossible on the island.
How do social media contribute to the visibility of Cuban reality?
Social media allows Cubans to share their experiences and compare life in Cuba with that of other countries. These testimonies help to highlight the challenges they face on the island and the impact of emigrating in search of better living conditions, sparking a debate about the situation in Cuba and the need for change.
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