A TikTok video posted by a Cuban woman living in Brazil has become a powerful depiction of life under Cuba's authoritarian regime: her parents' very first trip to a supermarket, with the caption "My parents' first time in a market, over 40 years without knowing what it was."
The creator of the video, known on TikTok as @meli020217, captured her mother and father as they explored the store, visibly amazed by the products on display in the short clip.
The comments section was flooded with warm welcomes from Brazilian users, with one saying, "Welcome to Brazil! My home is your home, our home!" Another commenter shared, "It saddens me to think about all the people suffering in Cuba."
The Impact of Cuba's Political System
However, the comments that struck a chord most sharply criticized the Cuban political system. The most liked comment, garnering 228 likes, stated, "Socialism and its aftermath." The video creator herself replied, "Yes, it takes time to adjust and heal."
This incident is not an isolated case. Since 2023, many Cubans who have recently moved abroad have documented their astonishment at the abundance of goods that are scarce or simply unavailable on the island.
Brazil: A Haven for Cuban Refugees
Brazil has emerged as the leading destination for Cuban migrants in Latin America. In 2025, Cubans filed 41,919 asylum applications in Brazil, marking an 88% increase from 2024 and surpassing Venezuelans for the first time. In the first four months of 2026, another 13,414 Cubans sought refuge in Brazil, accounting for 58% of all applications during that period.
Cuban Migration and Refugee Crisis: Key Questions Answered
Why are many Cubans choosing Brazil as their destination?
Brazil has become a popular destination for Cuban migrants due to its open asylum policies and the opportunity for a better life, free from the scarcity and restrictions faced in Cuba.
What challenges do Cubans face when adapting to life abroad?
Cubans often experience culture shock when confronted with the abundance of goods and freedom in their new countries, as they adjust from a life of scarcity and government control.
How has the Cuban asylum application trend changed in recent years?
There has been a significant increase in Cuban asylum applications in Brazil, with numbers rising sharply in 2025 and continuing to grow in 2026, reflecting the worsening conditions in Cuba.