Cuban in Brazil: "It's Not the U.S. or Europe, But It's a Land Full of Opportunities"

A Cuban TikTok user, @ariel.prez65, who currently resides in Brazil, shared a video reflecting on the often idealized expectations migrants have before relocating, and how reality can differ significantly from those expectations.

The discussion was sparked by a comment from one of his followers expressing regret about moving to Brazil: "I was misled. Brazil isn't what I expected. Everything is expensive, you have to work a lot, and money doesn't stretch far. I should have moved to the United States or Europe. I don't know why I came to Brazil."

In response, @ariel.prez65 offered a candid yet hopeful perspective: "Brazil isn't the United States or Europe, but it is a beautiful country full of opportunities." He acknowledged the rising cost of living but pointed out that this is a global issue, not unique to Brazil. He also compared the situation to that of migrants in the U.S., stating, "Ask a migrant living in Miami how much they pay for rent each month and compare it to the minimum wage. Believe me, by the end of the month, they have no choice but to use credit cards to cover their bills."

Addressing the notion that hard work doesn't guarantee stability, he plainly stated, "Believe me, anywhere in the world, if you don't work, you can't pay your bills." The video concluded with a motivating message for potential migrants: "The beginnings are tough. Initially, it will be hard… but it's worth it, I assure you. Emigrating isn't for everyone; it's only for the brave."

The comments on the post showed a mix of opinions, with a majority being positive. Several migrants, both Cuban and Venezuelan, expressed gratitude towards Brazil. One user shared, "I've been in Brazil for three years, and I'm very grateful. My children study, work, and we own a home." Another remarked, "Brazil has given us many opportunities. Yes, we have to work, but we are respected."

Some comments reflected criticism or personal hardships: "I work like crazy, and Brazil gave me a herniated disc," wrote one user. Nonetheless, supportive messages were also present: "Great video, congratulations," "Exactly right," and "I love this country too," wrote several users.

This testimony joins a growing number of similar posts reported by CiberCuba in recent months. In a series of videos about his job at a supermarket, @ariel.prez65 described the working conditions many migrants face, stating, "I work come rain or shine... because trust me, my bills won't pay themselves." He also shared how he managed to rent a place for 550 reais in Curitiba, offering practical tips for finding affordable housing without intermediaries.

From another angle, Cuban user @alicia.laporte6 showcased how she and her partner are building their home "brick by brick," emphasizing that hard work is a way to change their lives and start anew. In another widely shared video, user @yaicontigo revealed the mistakes she wouldn't repeat if she had to migrate again, such as trusting others too much and not budgeting for the actual cost of living.

Another Cuban warned those considering migrating to Brazil that "if your desire isn't to move forward, don't come," asserting that while the journey is challenging, opportunities exist for those willing to fight for them.

Although each migration experience is unique, @ariel.prez65's story sends a clear message: migration demands effort, patience, and realism. It's not about finding paradise but about building a new life from the ground up. For many Cubans, Brazil remains a viable place to do so.