A Cuban named Iser Ramos (@iser.ramos on TikTok) sparked an intriguing debate on TikTok by sharing his insights on the differences between living in Spain and the United States. In his video, the TikToker highlights various aspects that distinguish the two countries, from the climate to job opportunities and the immigrant experience.
In his clip, Ramos begins by pointing out that in Spain, workers are entitled to a month of paid vacation by law, something that does not exist in the United States. However, he also mentions that salaries in the U.S. are generally higher, though the cost of living is also considerably greater. "It's true that everything is more expensive in the United States, but there's an important point: I know laborers who own houses with swimming pools," he notes, something he considers "impossible" in Spain.
Nevertheless, he clarifies that life for undocumented immigrants is challenging in both countries, although in Spain, after three years, one can apply for residency.
Climate and Sense of Belonging
During the video, Iser Ramos also touches on the topic of climate, praising the "wonderful" weather in Miami, which he describes as perfect all year round, in contrast to the cold experienced in Spain's major cities. However, he does acknowledge that the Canary Islands also enjoy favorable weather.
Finally, Ramos reflects on the sense of belonging in both places. He asserts that in Spain, no matter how long you've been there, "you'll always be a foreigner," even though Spaniards welcome immigrants "with open arms." In contrast, he comments that in Miami, "whether you've been here for 15 days or a year, you belong to Miami." "This is the capital of all Latinos," he concludes about the City of the Sun.
In response to Ramos' question in his video, "Where is it better to live, in Spain or the United States?", hundreds of users commented. Some of the responses include: "In the United States, if you don't have good insurance, pray you don't get sick because it's ruinous. In Spain, it's free," "In Valencia, the climate is perfect too, and the safety, tranquility, cuisine, social culture, public services, and infrastructure are unmatched in the United States," "16 years in Spain and you're right, we are always outsiders," "In the U.S., people live to work. In Spain, we work to live," and "In Spain, you earn less but live better than in the United States." What do you think?
Comparing Life in Spain and the United States
To give a clearer perspective on the differences between living in Spain and the United States, here are some key questions and answers based on Iser Ramos' observations.
What are the main differences in labor laws between Spain and the United States?
In Spain, workers are legally entitled to a month of paid vacation, whereas there is no such law in the United States.
How does the cost of living compare between Spain and the United States?
The cost of living is generally higher in the United States, though salaries are also higher compared to Spain.
What is the climate like in Miami compared to major cities in Spain?
Miami enjoys a "wonderful" climate that is perfect year-round, whereas major cities in Spain can experience cold weather, although the Canary Islands also have favorable conditions.
How do immigrants feel about their sense of belonging in Spain compared to Miami?
In Spain, immigrants often feel like outsiders regardless of how long they've been there, despite a warm welcome. In Miami, people feel a sense of belonging much more quickly.