A Cuban resident in Spain has created a stir on TikTok by casually sharing the things that still surprise her after five years living in the country. “Of course I’m still surprised, because there’s nothing in Cuba”, she states in the video, where she also addresses the criticisms she received in a previous post: “They were asking how long I had been here, calling me that country girl…”.
Keila Marrero (@keilamarrero2000), who lives in Almería, works in a supermarket attending to the butcher and deli sections. Daily, she discovers products she had never seen in Cuba, which still leave her wide-eyed. “I don’t know why there are so many types of cold cuts, and they’re all delicious: Pamplonica, Revilla, mortadella with olives, Sicilian… there’s everything!” she recounts with astonishment.
She also mentions the variety of meats as another significant difference from what she knew in her home country: “Quail, rabbit, free-range chicken, lamb, pork… you eat everything from the pig, even the brains. I don’t know if they eat that in Cuba, as far as I can remember.” Keila assures that she never tires of being surprised.
Another thing that stands out is canned products, which are practically nonexistent on the island. “You find a lot of canned food. I never saw that in Cuba,” he comments. And when talking about cheeses, he spares no praise: “Not to mention the cheeses… there is an incredible variety.”
The video has received an avalanche of positive comments from Spaniards who celebrate their enthusiasm and ability to appreciate what many consider ordinary. “Thank you for appreciating what we have,” “You have to come to the north to try more things,” and “You are always welcome” are just a few of the messages they have received.
Keila concludes her testimony by expressing her admiration for Spanish cuisine. “Spain has the best gastronomy in the world,” she asserts, and says that her husband, who has traveled extensively, shares the same view: “The way people eat in Spain, you can’t find that anywhere else.” Her message, sincere and filled with gratitude, has resonated with thousands of people who celebrate her presence in the country.
Frequently asked questions about the experience of Cubans abroad and the discovery of new cultures
Cubans are surprised by the variety of products and the stability of basic services such as electricity and water, which starkly contrasts with the scarcity experienced in Cuba. Processed meats, a variety of meats, and canned goods are some of the most striking discoveries for them.
The reaction is often one of surprise and joy, as they find products they have never seen in Cuba. This experience can be very emotional, as it allows them to enjoy a quality of life that is a luxury in their home country.
Cuban customs are a way to preserve their cultural identity and maintain an emotional connection with their homeland. These practices help them cope with nostalgia and feel connected to their roots, even in a different environment.
For many emigrated Cubans, the abundance of products in other countries serves as a constant reminder of the limitations in Cuba. This creates a mix of emotions, ranging from gratitude for new opportunities to sadness for the family and friends who still live in scarcity on the island.