A young Venezuelan woman married to a Cuban shared her experiences with cultural clashes and surprising behaviors of her husband in a TikTok video. The star of the clip is @carladempaire, who openly discussed her confusion about the Cuban passion for dominoes and certain Cuban expressions.
In the video, the woman admits she doesn't understand the enthusiasm Cubans have for dominoes. "In Venezuela, we play it, but Cubans take it very seriously," Carla remarks. She also confesses that she initially struggled with some typical Cuban words, like "pomo." "The first time someone told me to pass the 'pomo,' I had no idea what it was. Now, I use the word myself," she says, laughing.
Fortunately, her love for dancing has been a significant connection point with her Cuban partner. "I have to admit, it was a perfect fit that I learned to dance salsa casino in Venezuela, and my Cuban husband dances it too," she adds.
Lastly, the Venezuelan shares a funny culinary anecdote: "I didn't know what 'congrí' was. The first few times I had to make 'congrí' and beans, I used canned beans."
Reactions to her video include comments like, "I'm Cuban and I don't understand the obsession with dominoes either; when my husband goes to play, I'd rather stay home because I know he'll be out all night," and "I'm Dominican married to a Cuban, and I can't cook in a pressure cooker; I use regular pots and make light coffee, I can't handle strong coffee."
Understanding Cuban Culture: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers about the cultural differences highlighted in Carla's video, which may help others in similar situations.
Why do Cubans take dominoes so seriously?
Dominoes is more than just a game in Cuba; it's a popular social activity that brings friends and family together, fostering community and camaraderie.
What does "pomo" mean in Cuban slang?
In Cuban slang, "pomo" typically refers to a bottle or container, often used to describe a water bottle or a bottle of soda.
What is 'congrí' in Cuban cuisine?
'Congrí' is a traditional Cuban dish made of rice and beans, typically seasoned and cooked together to create a flavorful side dish that complements many Cuban meals.