A Cuban woman is sparking debate after returning home to Cuba in a rented car, facing criticism for the contrast between the cost of her trip and the conditions of her modest family home.
By Izabela Pecherska
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 – 08:31
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An emotional video of a Cuban woman reuniting with her family has touched many users on social media. The images show Milena (@milenita9712 on TikTok), the protagonist, embracing her mother and other relatives in a humble wooden house located in the countryside. “I felt at home again after such a long time,” she wrote alongside the scenes of the long-awaited moment.
However, the tenderness of the reunion was not enough to quell a wave of criticism. Dozens of people responded by questioning the stark contrast between the apparent high cost of the trip —which included the rental of a car— and the precarious conditions of the home where his family resides. “With what that car and the trip cost, you could buy a house”, commented one user. Others mentioned expenses of up to eight thousand dollars, an amount they claimed would be sufficient to build a home in rural Cuba.
Several internet users expressed frustration over what they perceive as misdirected spending. “I don’t rent that car; I buy it in pieces to fix up the little house,” said another user. The house, made of old wood and topped with fiber cement, was described by many as “dangerous” and “unfit for living.”
But it wasn’t all attacks. A large group of supporters defended Milena, pointing out that no one should decide for her how to spend her money. They also reminded everyone that in Cuba, many elderly people are reluctant to leave their homes for emotional reasons. “It has sentimental value, not everyone wants to move even if they can”, argued a young woman. Another said: “She doesn’t ask you to rent the car.”
The controversy also opened a space for reflection on living conditions in the island. While some called for understanding of the difficult economic situation faced by many Cubans, others reminded everyone that what truly matters is family love. “That humble little house holds more happiness than many palaces filled with empty hearts,” wrote a moved woman. There were also those who shared their own stories of nostalgia and the desire to reunite with their loved ones in Cuba.
Milena, without directly addressing the criticisms, responded to some comments by expressing gratitude for the affection and assuring that her family has always supported her. “They are better than many people I have known outside,” she wrote. Beyond the controversy, her video has stirred deep feelings in thousands of Cuban exiles who dream of once again embracing their loved ones, even if just for a moment.
The expenses of Cuban emigrants returning to the island are controversial because many believe that the money could be used to improve the living conditions of their families, instead of being spent on travel or car rentals. This contrast highlights the challenging economic conditions faced by the Cuban population and sparks discussions about priorities and family values.
The economic situation in Cuba affects family reunions by highlighting the precarious living conditions of many residents, which creates an emotional shock for emigrants when they see the circumstances their loved ones are in. The criticisms regarding the use of money by emigrants reflect the desperation to improve these conditions.
Family reunions of Cubans are emotional because they reflect the sacrifice and love that endures despite the distance. These videos capture moments of happiness and relief after long periods of separation, resonating deeply with those who have experienced similar situations.
Cuban emigrants face emotional and economic challenges when returning to the island. They must deal with the emotional impact of witnessing the living conditions of their family members and confront criticism regarding their financial decisions. Moreover, Cuba’s economic reality, marked by high prices and poor services, complicates their visit further.
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Editor at CiberCuba. Graduated in Journalism from the Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, Spain. Editor at El Mundo and PlayGround.
Editor at CiberCuba. Graduated in Journalism from the Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, Spain. Editor at El Mundo and PlayGround.
