Ari Vlogs, a prominent Cuban content creator, shared in a Facebook video on Friday that she has moved to the Dominican Republic with several family members.
"I've come to the Dominican Republic with my family. Yes, my friends, I'm here in this beautiful country, which will now be part of a new chapter in my life," announced Arianna Medina Reyes—her real name—in the video.
After spending a few days in the Caribbean nation, Medina expressed feelings of relief and excitement: "I'm starting to feel settled in. Honestly, I'm really enjoying this experience and I'm eager to explore more of this country."
She also reached out directly to her new audience: "I want to send a very special greeting to all my Dominican followers. I hope you welcome me warmly. Let's continue sharing this new phase together and make me feel at home."
In the revealing video, the creator candidly described her pre-flight nerves: "I was so scared during takeoff. Oh my goodness. I had nerves I can't even explain, but I was also incredibly excited for everything ahead." The flight lasted two hours.
"And so, amid nerves, emotions, and many dreams, we finally touched down. Today marks the start of a new story. Thank you so much, God," Arianna concluded her revealing video.
Originally from Mantua, the westernmost municipality of Pinar del Río, Arianna embarked on a journey of approximately 280 kilometers to José Martí International Airport in Havana. The group—including her grandparents, brother, cousin, and father—left home around six in the evening on November 4th and arrived at the airport after two in the morning the next day, with their flight scheduled for eight in the morning.
Her husband chose to remain in Cuba. Arianna requested her followers to respect this decision: "He had the opportunity to come as well. But not everyone shares the same desires, plans, or views on life."
Ari Vlogs' story adds to a documented trend throughout 2026: several Cuban creators have publicly shared their emigration in real time. Katy, from the "Aprendedora" channel, departed for Santo Domingo in March after more than six failed attempts; Lisa Garci also arrived in Santo Domingo at the end of July; Mary Rosales Martínez emigrated to Brazil in August; and Katherine Guevara left the island that same month.
The Dominican Republic has emerged as a prime destination for the Cuban diaspora: according to elToque, over 100,000 Cubans arrived in the country in 2025, and more than 3,100 direct relocations from the island to this territory were recorded between January and March of 2026.
Cuban Diaspora to Dominican Republic: Key Questions
Why did Ari Vlogs choose to move to the Dominican Republic?
Ari Vlogs moved to the Dominican Republic with her family to start a new chapter in her life and to explore new experiences in a different country.
What was Ari's journey like to the Dominican Republic?
Ari Vlogs traveled with her family from Mantua to José Martí International Airport in Havana, covering approximately 280 kilometers, before taking a two-hour flight to the Dominican Republic.
How has the Dominican Republic become a key destination for Cuban emigrants?
The Dominican Republic has become a major destination for Cuban emigrants, with over 100,000 Cubans arriving in 2025 and more than 3,100 direct relocations from Cuba recorded between January and March of 2026.