A TikTok video posted by user @andro_el_talento_oficial has sparked a heated discussion online, showcasing a Cuban individual identified as I-220A (also known as Eli220A) taking aim at those who migrate to the United States and later portray life in Cuba as superior. The video, which has garnered thousands of reactions, features the creator eating shredded beef with pineapple soda while mocking claims that "life in Cuba is better than here in the United States."
With a tone dripping with sarcasm, he states, "Life is twenty times better, no stress, lots of girls, driving my car, Cuba is marvelous, folks," before distancing himself from that narrative: "That's on you, you who have to pay rent first; as for me, here in Cuba, I'm relaxed, living the life."
Further into the video, he criticizes those who "flee from Cuba, desperate to reach the U.S." and, after making "just a little bit of money," return to the island thinking they have succeeded. "Running around with a few bucks, as if it won't run out, as if Cuba... as if that, that dictatorship, which is falling apart," he asserts.
The video concludes with his emphatic message: "People need to stop, man, with those little things. What Cuba? Cuba is a dictatorship. Blessings."
User comments on the post showcase a range of opinions. Some support his message, emphasizing that living well in Cuba is contingent on receiving remittances from abroad. "Anywhere is good if you have money," one commenter noted. Others offered nuanced responses: "The best country is where you feel content," "Everyone does what they want with their life," or "If you're happy here without papers, then that's your happiness."
Critics of the video pointed out that not all migrants have opportunities or stability upon arrival. "Many have become nervous wrecks," one user remarked, while another added, "You have a car, a comfortable job, and a good life... that's easy to talk about."
More Voices Join the Conversation
This video is part of a wave of recent posts challenging the romanticized views of life in Cuba. On TikTok, user @yurisai25 addressed those who claim they lived better in Cuba, questioning, "If you had so many possibilities in Cuba, why did you come to this country?" In her video, she labeled those who downplay Cuba's reality as "frustrated millionaires."
Similarly, TikToker @robelcasa reacted to videos claiming that "there is everything in Cuba," denouncing the lack of necessities like toothpaste, factories, water, electricity, and dignity. From the U.S., he stated that even basic cooking spices have to be sent to the island.
These viral posts are part of a growing discussion within the Cuban community, both domestically and abroad, where nostalgic or falsely abundant narratives clash with testimonials of scarcity, forced migration, and open criticism of the regime.
Understanding the Debate on Cuban Life and Migration
Why are Cubans criticizing idealized views of island life?
Many Cubans criticize romanticized views of life on the island because they believe these narratives ignore the harsh realities of scarcity, lack of opportunities, and political repression in Cuba.
What do supporters of the video argue?
Supporters of the video argue that living well in Cuba is heavily dependent on receiving financial support from abroad, which is not a sustainable or realistic option for everyone.
How do critics respond to the video’s message?
Critics of the video point out that not all Cuban migrants achieve success or stability abroad, and some face significant challenges, including stress and lack of resources.