A Cuban woman residing in Brazil, known on TikTok as Soilen, has released a video that has rapidly gained traction among the Cuban community. In her video, she challenges the overly rosy perception many hold about Brazil as a migration destination.
In the two-minute video, posted on September 1, Soilen warns those contemplating a move to Brazil under the illusion that "it's a piece of cake" — due to the absence of power outages and the availability of food — will face a harsh reality check.
"Everyone in Cuba is eager to come here, thinking it's all easy because the power doesn't go out and there's food," she states in the video, quickly adding, "Yes, there's food, and the electricity stays on, but life here is tough."
The Hidden Costs of Migration
She elaborates on specific challenges that Cubans often overlook before migrating: the costs of beauty services such as nail salons, hair salons, and waxing are often unaffordable for newcomers.
"If I don't do my own nails, highlights, or haircuts, I can't afford any salon services here because they all cost money," Soilen explains.
Healthcare Challenges and Cultural Shocks
Healthcare services are not exempt from difficulties. Soilen highlights the long wait times to see a dentist, which can stretch up to four months. "If you have a cavity or lose a tooth, you'll have to wait four months for a dentist appointment," she warns.
One notable part of the video is her caution to those emigrating past the age of forty: "If you come here over 40, you age 80 years in two weeks," referring to the stress and rapid aging brought on by migration challenges.
Preparing for the Brazilian Reality
Soilen clarifies that her goal isn't to deter potential migrants but to offer a realistic picture of life in Brazil. "I'm not saying don't come, but I want to clarify how things really are here," she noted in the video description. Her message is for people to be prepared and not "deceived": "People need to face reality."
The preferred region within Brazil is the south, especially Curitiba, where many arrive with prearranged jobs. The most common route involves traveling through Guyana — due to its lenient visa requirements — and entering Brazil via Roraima or Amapá.
Soilen's video isn't an isolated case. Numerous accounts from Cuban women in Brazil have surfaced on social media, cautioning about the cost of living, the language barrier with Portuguese, and initial job instability. These accounts have sparked debate among those who appreciate the candor and others who view the messages as "negative."
"Even buying a blanket to cover yourself is a struggle here," Soilen concludes, capturing the stark contrast between the Cuba left behind and the Brazil encountered upon arrival.
Understanding the Realities of Cuban Migration to Brazil
What misconceptions do Cubans have about migrating to Brazil?
Many Cubans believe that Brazil offers a carefree lifestyle due to the continuous availability of electricity and food. However, the reality includes financial struggles, high living costs, and long wait times for healthcare services.
Why is the southern region of Brazil popular among Cuban migrants?
The southern region, particularly Curitiba, is popular because many migrants secure jobs there before arriving, making it a preferred destination for those seeking better employment opportunities.
What challenges do Cuban migrants face with healthcare in Brazil?
Cuban migrants face significant challenges with healthcare in Brazil, including long wait times for appointments, such as waiting up to four months to see a dentist.