Erasmus experience in Cardiff, United Kingdom

Why did you decide to go to Cardiff, United Kingdom?

I chose Cardiff because it is a city big enough that allows those who live there to choose between bars, activities and events of the most diverse genres, but it is also small enough to know more or less all of the city and guaranteeing a rather high degree of safety.

How long does the scholarship last? How much money do you receive as help?

The Erasmus grant can last from a minimum of 3 months to a maximum of 10 (if I am not mistaken) and you receive 230 euros per month.

What is the student environment like in Cardiff?

Wonderfully varied and rich, it is one of the most international environments in the United Kingdom and this not only implies meetings with cultures and languages from all over the world but also determines an attitude of openness towards others that is unmatched.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Cardiff to other students?

Absolutely yes.

How is the country’s food?

Not bad but nothing special. However, there are lots of different places in which you can eat well, especially in some pubs where you can eat delicious hamburgers freshly prepared in that moment.

Was it hard to find accommodation in Cardiff?

Absolutely not.

How much does it cost to live in Cardiff?

It is neither overly expensive nor cheap, certain things, even food, are more expensive in comparison with their own country, others less so. Its average.

How is it going with your language? Did you attend a university course?

Being in such an international environment everybody speaks English at a medium-high level, therefore everything is understandable. Of course, the majority of people are mother tongues therefore this gives a way to improve one’s knowledge of English. I did not attend a university course.

Source

What is the cheapest way to arrive at Cardiff from your city?

By aeroplane and bus.

What places would you recommend going to at night in Cardiff?

For those who love bars where you can dance to music of all types (and not just disco music) I recommend Live Lounge (where you can also attend gigs of lots of bands), Full Moon, Clwb Ifor Bach.

For those who love discos: Varsity, Glam, Oceana, Bunker, Soda, Pulse.

For those who prefer calmer places and pubs I recommend the Gwdihw (a pub where you can attend gigs of authentic bands and singers), O' Neills, Taff Bar, Central Bar, Buffalo, Owain Glyndur etc (the pubs are plentiful).

And to eat in Cardiff? Can you talk about your favourite places?

My absolute favourite place to eat in Cardiff is Face 11 where, in my opinion, you can eat the best hamburgers in the city.

Milgis (ethnic food) is also very good and especially Chapter Art Centre where sweet potato fries are one of the most amazing things in Cardiff.

And cultural places to visit?

The Castle is very beautiful and interesting, there are two beautiful museums and, for those who are interested, the Doctor Who Experience.

What advice would you like to give to future students in Cardiff?

I recommend living the city fully and without respite; include yourself in student tours, sign up for societies and create a group that loves doing what you love. The city is beautiful and offers so much, and in the company of the right people it could become the most beautiful and meaningful experience of your life.

One suggestion is never use the word “English” to indicate the “British” because if you are talking to a Welsh person, a Scottish person or an Irish person you could find yourself in an unpleasant situation!