"Why would you go to Cuba now? This is not the right time." That's what many people told Migdi Pérez (@travelwithmig) before her journey, but she was resolute: when the heart calls, no calendar matters. She shared this in a TikTok video that has been flooded with affectionate messages following her return to Cuba after a 12-year absence.
In the video, Migdi recounts her return to her hometown and, most importantly, the long-awaited embrace from her mother. She strolls through the streets of her childhood, reminisces about the piers where they fished at night, relishes the "most beautiful sunset in the world," and rediscovers life's simple joys: eating fresh fish, dancing like she used to, laughing until she cries, and reuniting with friends and family.
"When you're with your loved ones, nothing is missing," she states in the video, emphasizing that coming home transcends circumstances or how much a place has changed. For her, returning was not about ignoring reality but reconnecting with what truly matters.
As often happens on social media, the video sparked both emotion and debate. Some users questioned the long gap between her visits to Cuba, to which Migdi responded with calm honesty. "Respecting each person's reality is crucial in every language," she wrote in one of her most applauded replies. In another, she added, "It's wrong to draw conclusions without knowing the full story."
For those who criticized her 12-year absence, Migdi was even more transparent. She explained that she didn't understand why her personal decision affected others, clarifying that she sees her mother every year, who had even lived with her in Miami until recently. "I don't understand why it bothers you then, since it's my life," she replied, setting boundaries without engaging in confrontation.
Supporters came to her defense, reminding critics that not everyone can travel whenever they wish due to economic, familial, and legal constraints. Migdi agreed with these sentiments, responding with empathy and hoping that those yearning to return could do so soon. The discussion concluded with a phrase summarizing the entire debate: “One cannot always go when they want.”
Away from the controversy, the video ultimately became a shared reflection for many Cubans: the distance, the tough decisions, and the perpetual longing to return. Because, as Migdi made clear, it might not be "the perfect time," but when you return home, the heart always arrives first.
Understanding the Challenges of Returning to Cuba
Why did Migdi face criticism for returning to Cuba?
Migdi faced criticism because some people questioned the timing and length of her absence from Cuba, suggesting it reflected poorly on her commitment to her homeland.
How did Migdi respond to the backlash regarding her return?
Migdi responded by emphasizing respect for individual circumstances and explaining that personal and familial reasons influenced her travel decisions. She also highlighted that her mother had been living with her in Miami.
What reasons do supporters cite for not being able to return to Cuba freely?
Supporters pointed out that economic, familial, and legal factors often prevent individuals from traveling back to Cuba as frequently as they would like.