In a video shared on TikTok, a young Cuban who identifies as @ale_03official on the platform, shared his experiences living in Havana. In his post, the young man humorously recounts anecdotes and his experiences since his arrival in the capital.
"I'm a guy from Ciego de Ávila living in Havana, and obviously when I first got here, I was looking up all the time," he begins, joining the popular trend on social media to share personal stories or testimonies.
The young man admits that he always defended his province by saying he didn't live in the countryside, "and it turns out I did, I always lived in the countryside." Now settled in the capital, he assures that he has no intention of going back: "I won't go back even to gain momentum."
Among his most notable comments, he mentions how he has already fallen for the "sweet talk of the Havanans" and has been scammed, and how he has adopted certain precautions typical of life in Havana: "whenever I get on a bus, I keep my backpack in front."
The post generated a variety of reactions on TikTok: "And Havana is a countryside; if you left Cuba, you would see"; "I'm a Havana native living in the U.S., and now I know I lived in the countryside"; "I thought you were a guy from Ciego de Ávila living under dictatorship"; "I'm from Pinar del Río and I'm no fool"; "And wait until you leave Havana, the world outside is a paradise," some commented.
FAQs About Life in Havana
In light of the young man's experiences and the reactions from TikTok users, here are some frequently asked questions about life in Havana and how it compares to other places in Cuba and abroad.
What are common challenges faced by newcomers to Havana?
Newcomers to Havana often face challenges such as adapting to the city's pace, dealing with scams, and learning to take precautions like keeping personal belongings secure in public transportation.
How does living in Havana compare to living in other parts of Cuba?
Living in Havana can be quite different from other parts of Cuba. The capital tends to be busier and more crowded, with a faster pace of life and more opportunities but also more risks.
What are some common precautions taken by Havana residents?
Havana residents often take precautions such as securing their personal belongings, being wary of scams, and staying alert in busy areas to avoid theft or other issues.