The Cuban TikTok user @liettypi recently went viral as she shared three surprising experiences she never imagined having while living in Mexico. Her candid revelations have sparked a wave of reactions for both the unexpected nature of her adventures and the genuine way she conveys them. "Things I never thought I'd do as a Cuban living in Mexico," she begins in her video.
First on her list, she bravely tried insect tacos. "I visited a well-known market in Mexico City where they sell unusual items like these. I sampled a variety of insect tacos, including the popular chapulines, and it was quite an experience. Surprisingly, it wasn't as unpleasant as I had anticipated," she admits.
Another surprising adaptation was incorporating chili into nearly everything, even fruit. "When I arrived in Mexico, I thought chili was only used in dishes like meats and tacos. But no, at the tianguis, they offered me fruits with chili. I couldn't believe it," she recalls. She even worked selling fruits prepared with chili: "It was something I had to get used to, and now I genuinely enjoy it."
Weather Wonders Across Mexico
The third point she highlights is the dramatic climate differences across regions. "You can be in Morelos, where I am now, and it's very hot, but you can travel to another part of Mexico State, like Toluca, and feel the cold," she explains, contrasting it with Cuba's consistently hot weather.
Her video drew swift reactions. "Not every Mexican has done that, nor would they," @liettypi responded to a comment about the insects. Other users chimed in with comments like "Chapulín with lime, delicious," "You need to try maguey worms," and "Chapulines with garlic." Many encouraged her to create more content: "Make lots of videos," "Yes, friend, make more videos." Some comments revealed regional curiosity: "Which part of Morelos are you in?" or "In Oaxaca, it's the heat."
Reflections on Life in Both Countries
This isn't her first viral post. In previous videos, @liettypi has chronicled her migration journey from Cuba to Mexico, including a harrowing detention in Guatemala after paying smugglers who betrayed them: "We were held captive... that part is quite tough."
She's also sparked debate with her observations on how everyday products in Mexico, like toilet paper, Coca-Cola, and meat, are luxuries in Cuba. "In Cuba, this is a luxury," she remarked while showing toilet paper, noting that people often resort to using notebook paper.
One of her most discussed videos was her first visit to a Waldo’s store, where she was thrilled to find school supplies and household items unavailable in Cuba: "In Cuba, a child who brought a notebook like this to school was considered wealthy; their family had money, lived abroad."
@liettypi's story is similar to those of other Cuban women in Mexico, such as @eliponte05, who has documented her adaptation to spicy food, language differences, and initially surprising customs.
These experiences highlight the cultural contrasts faced by many Cubans as they emigrate, while also showcasing their adaptability, humor, and determination to build a new home in Mexico.
Adapting to Life in Mexico as a Cuban Expat
What unexpected foods did @liettypi try in Mexico?
@liettypi tried insect tacos, including chapulines, which are a popular delicacy in Mexico City.
How did @liettypi adapt to using chili in Mexico?
She learned to enjoy chili on almost everything, even fruits, which was a surprising change from her expectations.
What contrasts did @liettypi notice between Cuba and Mexico?
She noted the significant climate variations across Mexican regions and how everyday items in Mexico are considered luxuries in Cuba.