The Spanish content creator, @adriana_hest, has ignited a heated debate on social media after sharing a TikTok video titled "Things That Horrified Me About the United States," where she recounts her 10-day journey through several American cities. During her visit to New York, Buffalo, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C., she was taken aback by various social, urban, and cultural aspects of the country.
In her video, she highlighted witnessing numerous individuals using drugs in public areas and voiced her concern about the apparent lack of support for those battling addiction or homelessness. Another point of discomfort for her was the tipping culture, stating, "You're basically paying their wages because their damn bosses won't." She also criticized the high cost of living relative to wages and the precarious conditions she observed in some areas.
Unexpected Social Contrasts
Throughout her stay, she noted a stark social contrast, remarking, "It’s a first-world country, developed, the richest nation on earth… yet they have an alarming level of social inequality." She recounted seeing individuals living on the streets in very dire conditions, many with visible health issues.
Regarding the urban environment, she commented on the presence of trash and foul odors, particularly in New York City. She also observed a lack of political messages in public spaces, a difference she noted compared to Europe.
Cultural Clashes and Reactions
In Washington D.C., she described an awkward incident where a woman criticized her attire. "She told me I was naked in such a nasty way that I insulted her... but in Spanish, so she didn’t understand," she recalled.
The video sparked thousands of reactions. Some users agreed with her observations, while others accused her of generalizing or exaggerating after a short visit. There were also comments from people living in the U.S. who shared similar or opposing experiences.
Broader Reflections on American Life
@adriana_hest's account adds to a growing number of discussions about daily life in the United States. On TikTok, Puerto Rican @camilleenespana explained her decision to relocate to Spain due to feeling worn out by the pace of life in the U.S. and "losing joy" while chasing the so-called "American dream."
Creator @betyimarperez recounted an encounter with rats in New York City, mentioning that she once chose to run down the middle of the road rather than face one. Meanwhile, a Cuban in Detroit expressed dismay at comparing Florida’s cleanliness to the urban neglect she found in Michigan, claiming she hadn’t seen such dirtiness "even in Cuba."
Contrasting narratives also emerged. Spanish @david31glez shared the medical bill he received after breaking a bone in the U.S., reigniting debates around the healthcare system. Cuban @niurki2107, after moving from Spain to the U.S., asserted it was the best decision of her life, despite the challenges of migration.
These shared experiences on social media highlight a range of perceptions about the United States, influenced by personal factors, context, and expectations. Content like this continues to fuel discussions about quality of life, inequality, and the contrasts present in many American cities.
Exploring the Impact of Social Media on U.S. Perceptions
What were some of the major concerns raised by @adriana_hest during her U.S. visit?
She raised concerns about public drug use, lack of support for the homeless, the tipping culture, high living costs, and social inequality.
How did social media users react to @adriana_hest's video?
Reactions were mixed; some users agreed with her observations, while others accused her of exaggerating or generalizing from a brief visit.
What are some contrasting experiences shared by other social media users about life in the U.S.?
Some shared negative experiences like encounters with pests or urban neglect, while others praised their decision to move to the U.S. despite challenges.