A Cuban woman residing in the United States made waves on Instagram when she declared her intent to return to Cuba, weary of the relentless cycle of paying bills, waking up early, and working tirelessly. The video, posted by the account @beautybyjuani, quickly amassed over 53,000 views, 1,203 likes, and 432 comments within just a few hours.
In the video, she leaves no room for misinterpretation regarding her reasons: "Yes, I'm heading back to Cuba. I can't handle the pressure here. I'm done with paying bills, waking up early, working all the time," she candidly states to the camera.
Specializing in lip micropigmentation, eyeliner, and microblading, the user nostalgically outlines what awaits her on the island: "Now I want to sleep in, relax, and chat at length with friends on every corner. In short, I'm going back to Cuba."
However, it was her parting words that truly lit up social media. "I appreciate everything I've learned and experienced in this country and carry a piece of it in my heart. Thank you, United States of America. Goodbye, goodbye, and goodbye. You're a great nation, but not for me, because now I plan to 'live off tales,'" she declared.
The phrase "live off tales" carries a culturally specific meaning among Cubans: it implies surviving without working, through excuses or deception. Furthermore, it is also the title of Cuba's most popular comedic TV show, airing since 2009 and starring the character Pánfilo, portrayed by Luis Silva, which humorously critiques those who live without working amidst the socialist crisis. Using this phrase as her rationale for returning added a layer of irony that Cuban users didn't miss.
Soon, the internet was awash with mockery, memes, and skeptical remarks. The Cuban online community was quick to point out that the island is currently undergoing a severe economic crisis, with frequent power outages, food and medicine shortages, and a widespread deterioration of basic services—conditions that make the idyllic rest she envisions seem unlikely.
The video by @beautybyjuani is part of a recurring trend on TikTok and Instagram: Cuban emigrants documenting their returns to the island. However, most of these stories focus on emotional reunions with family, unlike this user's lighthearted critique of the American lifestyle as her sole reason for returning.
The migration context adds another layer to the discussion. Over 500,000 Cubans live in uncertain immigration status in the U.S. following the termination of the humanitarian parole and the CBP One program, and by 2025, at least 3,757 Cubans had been deported. Voluntary returns out of "exasperation" remain a minority, yet they are increasingly visible and commented upon within the diaspora.
The video's author hinted at documenting her return journey: "I'll let you know when I'm sending photos from 'Cubita,'" she promised before signing off. Other Cubans who have shared their real experiences in Cuba in 2026 have painted a very different picture than the one she envisions.
Understanding the Cuban Migration Context
What does "live off tales" mean in Cuban culture?
In Cuban culture, "live off tales" refers to surviving without a formal job, often through excuses or deceit. It is also the name of a popular Cuban TV show that humorously critiques this lifestyle.
What challenges does Cuba currently face?
Cuba is experiencing a severe economic crisis, marked by frequent power outages, shortages of food and medicine, and a general decline in basic services.