The Cuban YouTuber Katy, who runs the channel Aprendedora, recently released a video highlighting what are considered "luxuries" in Cuba today. Her list sheds light on the harsh economic and social conditions the country faces in 2025.
This young influencer was inspired to create the video after receiving criticism from a viewer who accused her of flaunting a breakfast of bread, omelet, and coffee. While this meal may be simple in many parts of the world, in Cuba, it has become a significant indulgence.
"A user told me I was showing off with food, and that sparked a reflection on what is now seen as luxury in our country," explained Katy. Her goal was to portray her daily life "without filters or pretenses."
The Struggle for Basic Necessities
Among the examples of "luxuries" Katy discusses is basic nutrition. For many Cuban families, daily access to essentials like milk, eggs, bread, and coffee is nearly impossible. Due to shortages, skyrocketing prices, and relentless inflation, such items have become luxury goods.
Unattainable Employment and Energy Needs
Another point Katy raises is the challenge of securing a well-paying job. In Cuba, salaries often fall short of meeting even the most fundamental needs. Professionals, in particular, are underpaid, and state jobs barely provide enough to get by.
Amidst the severe energy crisis, which results in blackouts lasting up to 20 hours a day, owning a generator is a mark of economic status. "It's a luxury everyone wishes for, but it's very expensive," commented the YouTuber.
Challenges in Internet Access
Katy also notes that a reliable Internet connection remains a privilege tightly controlled by the State. Signing up for Nauta Hogar, the home Internet service, involves long waiting lists that can extend for years. "Even when you finally get it, the connection is slow and costly," she added.
The Importance of Foreign Currency
Possessing dollars or any foreign currency in Cuba is described as "a blessing." With incomes paid in Cuban pesos but most essential goods sold in foreign currency, having access to dollars or euros is critical. "Not everyone in Cuba receives remittances, and very few can save enough to buy dollars," lamented Katy.
The Aprendedora video has sparked intense discussion on social media, where many Cubans agree that Katy's list accurately reflects the reality of a country where living with dignity has become a privilege.
"These aren't luxuries; they are things that used to be normal," one user commented. "It's sad that bread and coffee are considered luxuries," added another.
Meanwhile, the regime under Miguel Díaz-Canel continues to fall short in providing effective solutions to the inflation, blackouts, and shortages that suffocate the population. Many Cubans still dream of what was once routine: having breakfast without fearing what tomorrow might lack.
Understanding Cuba's Economic Crisis
What are considered luxuries in Cuba according to Aprendedora?
Luxuries in Cuba, as highlighted by Aprendedora, include daily access to basic food items like milk and eggs, well-paying jobs, owning a power generator, stable Internet access, and having foreign currency.
Why is having a generator considered a luxury in Cuba?
With the ongoing energy crisis causing blackouts of up to 20 hours a day, owning a power generator signifies economic privilege due to its high cost and essential utility.
How does the Cuban regime address the current shortages and inflation?
The Cuban regime, led by Miguel Díaz-Canel, has been criticized for its ineffective responses to the country's pressing issues of inflation, blackouts, and shortages, leaving many citizens in dire straits.