A Cuban traveler aboard the Oasis of the Seas cruise ship, operated by Royal Caribbean, recently shared a video on TikTok showcasing the coastline of Havana as seen from the open sea. The footage has evoked a wave of nostalgia and emotions among thousands of social media users.
"Attention to the people of Havana, where are you? This cruise is passing really close to Cuba. You can see Havana, Old Havana, and even the Malecón. We're heading to Mexico, skirting along Cuba. We just passed Santa Cruz del Norte and are now right in front of the Havana Malecón coastline, so close...," narrated the traveler as he filmed the capital's shoreline.
The video's creator admitted that observing Cuba from the sea brings up mixed emotions. "These kinds of videos still make me nostalgic. Cuba is always so close to us, yet the lives of those there are so different from ours," he expressed.
Many commenters echoed similar sentiments. "I think if I got that close, I'd jump in and swim to hug my mom," wrote one Cuban user. Another remarked, "Good thing you passed during the day; if it were night, you wouldn't see anything, and my heart would leap out of my chest."
The recording also attracted responses from emigrants who haven't returned to the island for years. "It's been five years since I set foot on my homeland, without seeing my parents," lamented one individual.
The cruise continued its journey towards Mexico, leaving behind Havana's coastal silhouette and a sea of emotions for those who still view Cuba as a place that's nearby in proximity but distant in reality.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nostalgia and Cuban Emigrants
Why do videos of Cuba evoke such strong emotions among emigrants?
Videos of Cuba often stir deep emotions among emigrants due to the memories of their homeland and the stark contrast between their current lives and those of their loved ones back home. It represents a connection to their roots and a reminder of the cultural and familial ties they left behind.
What impact does the distance from Cuba have on its emigrants?
The physical and political distance from Cuba often heightens feelings of nostalgia and longing among emigrants. It underscores their separation from family and the inability to freely visit their homeland, which can be emotionally challenging.