Chilean content creator Claux.7 embarked on an eight-day journey to Havana, attempting to immerse himself in the daily life of an average Cuban. The experience left an indelible mark on him. Through a series of videos on his YouTube channel, the young man describes his journey as "a trip back in time," asserting that Cuba is "one of the hardest places to live in the world."
"Cuba is truly a parallel universe compared to the rest of the planet. It's like traveling through time," he begins in his video, showcasing images of vintage cars, dilapidated buildings, garbage-strewn streets, dead rats, and Cubans hiding their faces to speak out of fear of State Security repercussions.
Initially captivated by the quaint appearance of Cuba’s capital, the Chilean YouTuber quickly confronted the harsh realities of everyday life. "The power went out. Blackouts lasted five hours, twice a day, every day," he recounted. He also observed long lines at stores waiting for basic goods and described how power cuts plunged the city into total darkness and cut off internet access.
The Stark Reality of Cuban Streets
Claux.7 pointed out the absence of commercial signage on the streets, replaced by political propaganda, and noted the omnipresence of monuments dedicated to regime figures. "In many homes, water runs from balconies, whether from laundry or broken pipes due to age," he added, while showing buildings propped up by makeshift beams to prevent collapse.
One of the most tense moments occurred when a local woman warned him he could die if he filmed near a crumbling house. "Many homes are falling apart," the YouTuber emphasized.
A Candid Reflection on Cuban Life
"Cuba is completely unlike any country you might visit. Its people don't have much, but they give everything. It's hard to explain; you would only understand if you visit Cuba at some point," he expressed with visible emotion.
Claux.7 didn't shy away from sharing his political stance after his trip to Cuba. "I have no doubt that it's a dictatorship," he stated. He acknowledged that this was one of the most impactful trips of his life, telling his fans he felt compelled to create an additional video to explain the political context of the country, based on what he witnessed and experienced during his stay.
The entire series documenting his experience in Cuba is available on his YouTube channel, where he aims to capture and share the realities of different countries around the world.
Understanding Life in Cuba: Key Questions
What was the most shocking aspect of daily life in Cuba according to Claux.7?
Claux.7 was most shocked by the frequent blackouts, long lines for basic goods, and the overall harsh living conditions in Cuba.
How did Claux.7 describe Cuba in his videos?
He described Cuba as a "parallel universe" and a "trip back in time," highlighting the country's difficult living conditions and unique challenges.