A Cuban, known on TikTok as @yandrydz, has stirred controversy online after sharing a video in which he claims to have "self-deported" from the United States back to Cuba. According to him, he enjoys a peaceful and carefree lifestyle in his homeland.
"I self-deported from the U.S. to Cuba on my own, but the difference was that I worked during the two years I was there. I didn't go to just spend money or party," the young man states, showcasing his home equipped with solar panels and a modern car parked outside.
In the video, the Cuban asserts that life on the island is "relaxed," free from alarm clocks and formal jobs, and encourages other emigrants to consider following his path. "If it bothers you that someone is here living calmly without work and without a 5 a.m. alarm clock, brother, don't overcomplicate things. Do what I did: work, sacrifice, and come back here relaxed," he says, gesturing to the solar panels on his house's roof.
Despite his claims, the video was met with a flood of critical and sarcastic comments from other Cubans who disagree with his rosy view of life in Cuba. Many reminded him of the ongoing economic crisis, power outages, and lack of essential services that citizens face daily.
"Did you bring a hospital with doctors inside?" one user quipped, highlighting the shortcomings of Cuba's healthcare system. Another remarked, "Nahhhh, let me keep working and waking up at 5, thanks."
Some questioned his personal ambitions: "Were your dreams that low, bro?" and "Was that your goal?" were among the most repeated responses on TikTok.
Recently, videos from Cubans claiming to have voluntarily returned from the United States or other countries have become more common, with assertions that they can live "stress-free" in Cuba.
However, most reactions are filled with skepticism or ridicule, given the enduring scarcity, frequent blackouts, and low wages that define everyday life on the island. While some view these testimonials as attempts to appear successful despite returning, others see them as part of a propagandistic narrative aimed at downplaying the crisis under Cuba's socialist regime.
Questions about Life in Cuba and Self-Deportation
What did the Cuban TikToker claim about his life in Cuba?
The TikToker claimed that he enjoys a relaxed and worry-free lifestyle in Cuba, without the need for formal employment or waking up early.
How did other Cubans react to his video?
The video received a lot of critical and sarcastic comments, with users highlighting Cuba's economic issues, power outages, and poor healthcare system.
Why are some people skeptical about claims of stress-free life in Cuba?
Skepticism arises due to the ongoing challenges in Cuba, including scarcity of resources, frequent blackouts, and low wages, which contradict claims of a carefree life.