Survival Over Choice: Spanish YouTuber Exposes Cuba's Harsh Reality

Spanish YouTuber Juanjo Dalmau, creator of the channel Viajando con Dalmau, has once again stirred social media with a candid video shot in Havana. This video, shared on TikTok, offers an unfiltered glimpse into the daily struggles faced by millions of Cubans. Dalmau (@jdalmau_) stops in front of a Havana store, capturing a long line of people waiting for food. In one of the video's most striking moments, he remarks, "Imagine living in a country where your food depends on a ration book... a book that promises essentials but often delivers emptiness."

The brief video, just over a minute long, blends scenes of urban decay with Dalmau's direct and almost incredulous commentary. He navigates streets piled with garbage, points out collapsing facades, and highlights homes teetering on the brink of inhabitation. "Living here... your house could fall on you any moment," he notes, recording the surroundings with a resigned expression. Later, holding his nose against the stench, he voices frustration at the lack of institutional action: "It smells awful, the amount of trash in the street is unbelievable... the government will clean it up whenever they feel like it."

Public transportation also comes under scrutiny. Dalmau films a packed, run-down bus with missing windows and rusted structures. "Wow, the bus is completely wrecked," he comments, appealing to the disbelief of his foreign audience. He engages with locals, some of whom, with resigned expressions, confirm the daily struggle for basic survival in Cuba.

Reactions to the video have varied, reflecting the usual polarization surrounding Cuban issues. Some viewers praised him for shedding light on a reality they believe is often hidden or glossed over, while others accused him of exaggerating or exploiting misery for content. Yet, many comments acknowledge a deep crisis affecting all aspects of daily life.

This isn't Dalmau's first foray into this subject. During his time in Cuba, he has released other videos depicting the collapse of the housing system and food scarcity. In one such video, he joined a Cuban father in a quest to find milk for his daughter, only to discover it was available at an exorbitant price in a small private business after visiting multiple stores unsuccessfully. The scene moved thousands and sparked further debate on living conditions on the island.

In another recent post, the YouTuber showcased homes on the verge of collapse, streets lined with waste, and citizens who, despite everything, press on. Dalmau has often mentioned having to film discreetly with his phone to avoid trouble with authorities, as he believes "you can't show what the regime doesn't want to be seen."

While most Cubans strive to escape this reality, another Spaniard has chosen a different path. Artist Wayota OD moved to Cuba after suffering a stroke, seeking a second chance for life and music. "I decided to leave everything behind to move to the island of blackouts," he said in a video shared online. Despite power cuts, food challenges, and a scam shortly after his arrival, he asserts no regrets about his decision.

His story, widely discussed on social media, has garnered both admiration and criticism. Some commend his courage, while others question the feasibility of his choice and potential financial support from Spain. In April, Wayota reported being scammed following a night out, raising concerns among his followers.

While Wayota finds Cuba a place for introspection and creativity, Dalmau depicts a nation mired in neglect, scarcity, and despair. Two Spaniards, two perspectives, one island caught between survival and resilience.