Lisbeth García, known online as Lisa Garci, a popular Cuban YouTuber, has left Cuba, capturing every step of her departure in a nearly twenty-minute vlog posted on YouTube.
Describing the day as both "the worst and the best" of her life, Lisa's journey took her from Havana to Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic.
Emotional Farewell at the Airport
In her video, the content creator shared the emotional turmoil she felt as she passed through the gates of José Martí Airport. "On one hand, I'm saying goodbye to my home, my city, my family and friends, my pets, and my mom. But on the other, I'm starting anew, hoping for a future that doesn't feel so uncertain, directionless, or trapped," she expressed.
The day was fraught with the typical challenges of leaving Cuba, including a flight delay of nearly four hours and unanswered information calls at the airport from early morning until mid-afternoon.
Leaving Behind Loved Ones
One of the most heartbreaking moments in the vlog was the farewell at the airport's entrance, where only passengers are allowed. Lisa left her dog and cat in the care of her mother, acknowledging the pain this would cause: "It's going to hurt a lot," she admitted.
"I've always been the one to come to this place to see others off. I've never been the one leaving," she remarked before boarding the plane. As the plane ascended, she looked out the window at Havana, commenting, "Look at how beautiful the city is. How is there so much light when my house is in blackout?"
New Beginnings in Santo Domingo
Upon landing at Las Américas International Airport, Lisa concluded her video with a heartfelt message to her mother: "Mom, if you're watching this, I love you very much. I arrived safely."
Lisa Garci has been a content creator on YouTube for about five years, with her channel boasting over 120,000 subscribers. She also enjoys a following of more than 100,000 on Instagram.
Known for highlighting everyday life in Cuba, Lisa's videos range from making her own clothes in Havana to showcasing her survival kit for power outages.
The Journey to Find a New Home
Before settling on the Dominican Republic, Lisa spent a year trying to move to Mexico for self-funded studies without success. She then spent about six months attempting to secure a student visa for Spain, which was denied. Additionally, she explored the humanitarian parole option for the United States but was unsuccessful.
"Santo Domingo is a beautiful city, and I know I will enjoy my time here," she told the taxi driver who welcomed her in her new host country.
Part of a Larger Cuban Exodus
Lisa's departure adds to a growing wave of Cubans leaving the island. Other content creators from Cuba have followed the same path in recent months. In March 2026, YouTuber Katy from the channel Aprendedora moved to the Dominican Republic.
The Cuban YouTuber couple Javi and Zami left the island in November 2025. All have cited similar reasons on camera: lack of freedom, power outages, shortages, and no clear future.
The Dominican Republic has become a key destination for Cuban migrants. Official data from the General Directorate of Migration (DGM) indicates that over 1,245 Cubans obtained legal residency there during 2025.
Understanding the Cuban Migration Trend
Why did Lisa Garci choose to leave Cuba?
Lisa Garci left Cuba in search of a future that feels less uncertain and constrained. She cited the need for clarity and freedom as significant factors in her decision to seek a new beginning in the Dominican Republic.
What challenges did she face during her departure?
Lisa encountered typical challenges of leaving Cuba, such as a flight delay of nearly four hours and unresponsive airport information services throughout the day.
How has her content on YouTube been received?
Lisa Garci's YouTube channel has been well-received, accumulating over 120,000 subscribers. Her content, which offers insights into daily life in Cuba, resonates with many viewers.