A Cuban-American, Brian Acosta (@elcangri.99), recently stirred a heated debate on TikTok by showcasing the progress of his house under construction in Cuba. In the video, he noted, “Preparing the nest. In a few years, I’ll retire.” The clip, revealing various stages of the renovation—from freshly laid floors to painted walls and a porch in the rain—has amassed thousands of views and over 1,600 likes.
While it might seem like an ordinary update, the post quickly ignited a conversation about a common aspiration among Cuban emigrants: the hope of returning to Cuba someday. Some commenters praised Brian for his dedication. One user remarked, “Mine is ready with all the essentials,” while another joked about their December plans, and a third added, “We’ll retire in January, blessings my brother.”
However, not everyone shared the same sentiment. One user expressed, “I’m going to retire, but not to Cuba, to Spain. Cuba is in turmoil, with extreme poverty and no quality of life.” These responses highlight a mix of emotions ranging from nostalgia to resignation. Some users lamented that despite the desire to return, conditions on the island remain challenging. “It’s a shame we can’t go back to our country,” one follower commented, while others noted they would rather stay abroad, despite the high cost of living, than face Cuba’s ongoing crisis.
Brian did not elaborate on whether he intends to move back permanently, but his post reignited a familiar debate among expatriated Cubans: the notion of “retiring” in their homeland, contrasted with the harsh economic and social realities their families endure on the island.
With a casual tone, the video by @elcangri.99 has evolved into more than just a glimpse of a construction project. For many, it symbolizes both the hope and the contradiction of those who dream of returning to Cuba, knowing that going back doesn’t always promise a better life.
Common Questions About Returning to Cuba
Why do Cuban emigrants dream of returning to Cuba?
Many Cuban emigrants hold onto the hope of returning to their homeland due to a strong sense of nostalgia and cultural identity, despite the challenging living conditions.
What are the main challenges of retiring in Cuba?
Retiring in Cuba is fraught with difficulties such as economic instability, lack of quality healthcare, and limited access to basic necessities, making it a daunting prospect for many.
How do social media platforms influence the debate on returning to Cuba?
Social media platforms provide a space for Cubans both on the island and abroad to discuss and debate the realities of life in Cuba, influencing perceptions and decisions about returning.