A young Cuban-American woman residing in the United States touched the hearts of many with a TikTok video capturing a tender moment with her grandfather in Sagua la Grande, Cuba. The video not only captured their emotional reunion but also shed light on the steep living expenses on the island by revealing the cost of the meal they enjoyed together.
During their outing, the granddaughter and grandfather shared a meal that came to a total of 4,840 Cuban pesos, roughly equivalent to 15 U.S. dollars. "Seeing him happy and enjoying his meal was priceless," the young woman remarked, emphasizing that the moment was invaluable despite the financial hardships.
In the video posted on the account @siempre.ellaxo, the grandfather can be seen savoring his lunch while the granddaughter reflects on the privilege of spending time with him. "If you have your grandparents with you, cherish them, hug them, and love them dearly because not everyone has the privilege of being with them every day," she expressed emotionally.
The post not only stirred feelings of tenderness and empathy among viewers but also highlighted the economic challenges faced by Cuban families. While the cost was manageable for the young woman, it represents a near-unattainable luxury for many Cubans.
The video quickly went viral, gathering thousands of reactions and comments from people who shared their own stories and underscored the importance of treasuring and caring for loved ones, especially the elderly.
The Economic Reality in Cuba: Common Questions
Why is the cost of living so high in Cuba?
The high cost of living in Cuba is largely due to limited resources, economic sanctions, and government policies that affect the availability and pricing of goods and services.
How do Cubans manage with such high prices?
Many Cubans rely on remittances from relatives abroad, barter systems, and government subsidies to cope with the high prices of basic necessities.
What can be done to improve the economic situation in Cuba?
Potential solutions include economic reform, foreign investment, and lifting of trade restrictions to improve the availability and affordability of goods and services.