A young Cuban woman has taken social media by storm after sharing videos where she gives flirty compliments to men on the streets of Havana. Known as Liz Lauren Rodríguez (@lizlauren_rg) on Instagram, she is not only a content creator on social media but also a model and actress. Her passion is evident in her elaborately crafted videos where she seductively engages with men.
In one of these videos, she is seen sitting in the middle of a street. When calling a waiter, she requests a coffee that is "like him: a bonbon." The surprised young man responds with a smile. But it doesn't end there.
When she asks for the bill, she quips, "Oh no, I didn't want this bill; I wanted your Instagram handle," once again eliciting a smile from the young man.
In another video, she approaches a young man on a different street, saying, "Excuse me, I have a problem with my contacts." She then adds, "I can't find yours," and introduces herself as Mia. "But I can also be yours," she says, earning yet another smile.
A third short clip shows the actress and model handing out notes to young men, asking if they want to be her boyfriend, bringing joy to their faces.
Flirting: A Cuban Cultural Trait
From a cultural perspective, Cubans have the art of flirting, or "piropo," ingrained in their DNA. It's common to give compliments on the streets. While traditionally it was men who usually delivered these flattering remarks, in recent years, confident women have also embraced this form of gender freedom to compliment those who catch their eye.
From their creativity come beautiful phrases that are hard not to reciprocate with a smile—or even a blush.
Understanding the Phenomenon of Flirting in Cuba
To provide more insights into this cultural phenomenon, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
Why is flirting common in Cuban culture?
Flirting, or "piropo," is a longstanding tradition in Cuban culture, rooted in the country's social norms and values. It is seen as a form of art and a way to express admiration and affection.
How has the role of women in flirting evolved in Cuba?
Traditionally, men were the ones giving compliments, but in recent years, women have become more confident and assertive, using flirting as a form of gender freedom and self-expression.
Who is Liz Lauren Rodríguez?
Liz Lauren Rodríguez is a Cuban content creator, model, and actress known for her viral videos where she flirts with men on the streets of Havana. She is popular on Instagram under the handle @lizlauren_rg.