Erasmus experience in Cardiff, UK by Alexandra

Why did you choose Cardiff, UK?

I could only choose between cities within the United Kingdom and Cardiff was my first choice since it fitted my specifications. It was the perfect size for me, being a large city but not too big so that it’s hard to immerse myself. Furthermore, the Welsh are known for being very welcoming.

Two of the University of Cardiff's buildings

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How long was your placement? How much financial help did you receive?

The placement lasted one year, similar to a school year from September to June. From the very beginning I received a lot more financial aid than other students. I was given approximately 2200 euros for the year from the local council, 1400 euros for my Erasmus grant as well as the standard student loan which was increased accordingly on the basis of living costs in the United Kingdom.

What is student life like in Cardiff?

In short, very good! Cardiff is a student city, so there are a ton of organized student nights especially for exchange students, as well as heaps of student discounts e. g. restaurants, cinemas. It is definitely my favourite city with the best night-life, with a wide selection of bars, karaoke clubs and pubs - there’s something for everyone.

Would you recommend Cardiff university and the city to other students?

Definitely. It’s a lovely city, since there are many green areas such as Bute Park and Victoria Park situated at the centre, but also an array of shops and restaurants which are considered to be great in the town centre. It’s a city that continuously develops without being too oppressing.

As for the university, it’s also very good. Staff are very helpful and kind - receptionists and professors are willing to help with anything they can and respond very quickly to emails, and they aren't there to penalize or reduce your grades contrary to in France! Furthermore, student facilities are relatively new such as the library which has all the books you could want, and WiFi which is available throughout the university. The student union is also very good, there is an immense building with a bar, Starbucks, some restaurants, a library and a gym. It really is impressive! Student events are organized brilliantly for a small fee (trips, visits during the first few days, events, nights out... ).

The university also offer a lot of sport societies, such as surfing, trampolining and basketball as well as other societies e. g. Erasmus society, Harry Potter, choir and scouts. There are also voluntary opportunities, all of which are organized and are presented to you at the welcome week.

The Students' Union organises lots of events

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What is the food like in this country?

Food isn't the best point about Cardiff. In a typical pub, you mustn't expect the best dishes as they’re often fried, greasy and basic but with this in mind you can still get by. Furthermore, the best restaurants are in the town centre but are a lot more expensive. Otherwise, there are the standard fast foods and restaurant chains that you’ll find anywhere. There really is something for everyone's taste.

Did you have any difficulties finding accommodation in Cardiff?

No, since I applied early, and I would advise you to do the same. However, generally there’s a lot of choice: student residences (the most expensive), flats or house shares (less expensive, which is what I chose). In order to search, you must look online on sites such as Gumtree or Easyroomate.

What is the cost of living like in Cardiff?

Living cost is higher than in France due to the sterling exchange rate but that’s not largely comparative to the rest of the UK. My accommodations costed me £310 per month, for food there was a big Lidl just next to the university which really wasn't expensive (around £20 a week), to eat out you could spend as little as £7 and for an alcoholic drink it would be £5 or with an offer. The cheapest gym in town was £18. 99. Very little was spent on transport as you can walk everywhere!

So all in all, it is doable.

What is it like to learn the language? Have you attended language courses by the university?

Half of my classes were in English as was the case in France, so I didn't have too many problems in understanding them apart from Welsh lecturers with strong accents but that was rare.

But yes, I had English lessons twice a week to recap the language and grammar which was very useful. The university also offers free language classes either with a lecturer or via the internet.

Which was the most cost effective way of getting to Cardiff from your town?

From my hometown (Toulouse, France), the cheapest way is by plane to London or Bristol (with Easyjet) then by bus to Cardiff (Nationalexpress). It’s also possible to fly with Ryanair and then get the Mega Bus.

Where would you recommend for a night out in Cardiff?

Clubs: Pryzm, Tiger Tiger (they also have karaoke), Live Lounge, Y Plas (Student Union club), Walkabout.

Pubs: Woodville, Royal George.

Which are your favourite places to eat out in Cardiff?

The Woodville which isn't expensive, Chez Pierre (French cuisine, a bit more expensive) or Five Guys, a fast food chain.

Which cultural attractions would you recommend visiting?

Cardiff castle, the National Museum of Cardiff, the Doctor Who experience, the millennium stadium for a visit, to watch a game or walk around town through the arcades.

Advice for future students at Cardiff

Travel around! You won’t regret it! You will gain a lot from your experience by visiting and travelling around Wales and the UK in general, and flights/buses aren't expensive. Most importantly don’t stay indoors, force yourself go out and sign up to societies and sports clubs to meet new people and to speak English as much as possible!