A young Cuban woman, known on TikTok as @solymar_cmg, recently shared her "first shopping trip for a journey to Cuba" with her followers, and what she stocked up on caught everyone's attention. The video, which has garnered thousands of views on the social media platform, captures her meticulously picking out a variety of items she plans to take to the island.
The contents of her shopping cart included vitamins, stomach medications, antibiotics, boxes of soap, seasonings, and other essential goods. "First shopping trip for a journey to Cuba," she captioned the footage, which appears to have been filmed in a supermarket in the United States.
This scene highlights a well-known reality for many Cubans living abroad: the necessity of bringing basic goods that are either scarce or hard to obtain in Cuba. The video not only resonated with those who have faced similar challenges but also sparked a conversation among viewers about the limited access to medications and hygiene products in Cuba, underscoring the vital role of family support from abroad.
Understanding the Shortages in Cuba
Why do Cubans need to bring essentials from abroad?
Cubans often bring essentials from abroad due to severe shortages and limited availability of basic goods in the country, making it difficult to obtain everyday items.
What are some commonly needed items in Cuba?
Commonly needed items in Cuba include medications, vitamins, personal hygiene products, and food seasonings, all of which may be scarce in local markets.