"The air feels different here," a young Cuban living in Spain exclaims, as he shares on social media the five aspects that profoundly surprised him upon his arrival—from the observance of pedestrian traffic lights to the punctuality of public transportation. His video testimony highlights the everyday contrasts many Cuban immigrants face when encountering norms, services, and freedoms that seem unimaginable on the island.
"I thought I was prepared for many things, but these five left me as cold as a Galician winter," remarks the content creator known as @estibito_vlogs in a light-hearted manner in a TikTok video that has garnered hundreds of reactions. Among the elements that most astonished him were the adherence to traffic signals, the cleanliness of the streets, the precision of public transport, people's politeness, and the consistency of market prices. "In Cuba, traffic lights are more decorative," he jokes, noting that crossing on red in Spain is almost criminal. Regarding transport punctuality, he observes, "In Cuba, transport is more like a promise; here it's pure math."
His insights have been widely celebrated by both Cuban and Spanish users. Comments such as "Brother, with that attitude you'll fit right in," "Thanks for appreciating my country," or "We need more people like you" are frequent among the responses. However, some users have added nuance, noting that Spain, too, has its shortcomings: "Thanks for the positive outlook, but there are also not-so-good things," one user commented.
A Wave of Similar Testimonies
This young man's experience is part of a growing narrative on social media, where Cuban migrants share their experiences in Spain. Recently, Cuban Amed González reflected that "Spain isn't just a country; it's air that doesn't weigh," contrasting his new life with Cuba's hardships: "Here, having light, transportation, internet, going to the market and choosing aren't luxuries."
Another notable testimony came from a Cuban woman who described her first encounter with the Spanish public health system as "being in a five-star hotel," impressed by the digital organization and professional treatment. Her perspective sparked applause and discussions about the current state of healthcare.
A viral case involved an 87-year-old Cuban grandmother, amazed upon seeing a prawn for the first time in a Spanish supermarket. Her grandson captured her reaction, generating thousands of tender comments, while also encouraging reflection on the chronic shortages in Cuba.
The TikToker Karlita also stirred conversation by expressing her amazement at how cars automatically stop when a pedestrian traffic light is pressed. "Welcome to capitalism, my love," she said, sparking lively debates on traffic education and cultural differences.
A Shared Experience
Such stories contribute to a collective memory that underscores the cultural shock many Cubans experience when moving abroad, highlighting the stark contrast with life on the island. For many, simply having consistent access to electricity, water, or food becomes a source of wonder and gratitude.
The young man from @estibito_vlogs sums it up well: "Spain has its issues, sure, but these five things made me say: the air is different here."
Understanding Cuban Migrant Experiences in Spain
What surprised Cuban migrants most about Spain?
Cuban migrants are often surprised by Spain's adherence to traffic rules, cleanliness, public transport punctuality, politeness of people, and consistent pricing in markets.
How do Cuban migrants perceive Spain compared to Cuba?
Many Cuban migrants view Spain as a place where basic services and freedoms that are scarce in Cuba are readily available, offering a stark contrast and new appreciation for daily life.
What kind of public reactions do Cuban migrant stories receive?
Cuban migrant stories in Spain receive a mix of admiration and constructive criticism, with many appreciating the positive outlook while acknowledging Spain's own challenges.