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Returning to Cuba: A Texas-Based Cuban Sells His Food Trailer and Leaves the American Dream Behind

Sunday, January 18, 2026 by Oscar Fernandez

Carlos Quintana, a Cuban residing in Austin, Texas, has made the choice to sell his food trailer and return to Cuba.

In a video shared on social media, the entrepreneur expresses his desire to leave the United States and head back to the island, where he hopes to start anew.

"Good day, my name is Carlos Quintana. Right now, I'm looking to sell my trailer, folks, I'm giving it away with everything, with everything, with everything," the Cuban states while showcasing his fully equipped mobile business, ready for continued operation.

Priced at $12,000, the trailer comes complete with refrigerators, a freezer, a griddle, a four-burner stove, a metal roof, a microwave, and storage areas for drinks and food.

"The trailer is refinanced, and I've almost paid off half of it," Quintana explains, emphasizing that he's selling it "with everything," including all tools and interior equipment.

As he walks viewers through the video, Quintana proudly highlights the interior structure of his business, detailing its condition. Yet, the fatigue and frustration prompting his departure from what many refer to as the American dream are also apparent.

While he doesn't specify the exact reasons for his return, Quintana mentions that he "doesn't want to continue living here in the United States," a sentiment echoing the disillusionment of several Cubans who migrated seeking economic stability, only to encounter debt, stress, and a life distanced from their families.

Quintana's situation is part of a growing trend visible on social media: Cubans opting to go back to the island, weary of the pressures from the immigration system, high living costs, and the challenging adaptation to the American lifestyle.

While some social media users are surprised by his decision, others commend him for prioritizing personal well-being over life in a country where — as many acknowledge — "not everything is as it seems."

Frequently Asked Questions about Cubans Returning from the United States

Why did Carlos Quintana decide to return to Cuba?

Carlos Quintana decided to return to Cuba due to a combination of fatigue and frustration with life in the United States, as well as a desire to start anew on the island.

What does Quintana's trailer include?

Quintana's trailer includes refrigerators, a freezer, a griddle, a four-burner stove, a metal roof, a microwave, and storage areas for drinks and food.

Is there a trend of Cubans returning to the island?

Yes, there is a noticeable trend of Cubans returning to the island, driven by dissatisfaction with the immigration system, high living costs, and challenges in adapting to American life.

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