Erasmus experience in Cardiff, United Kingdom by Lucie

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

First of all, it was an option on the list provided by my home university. Cardiff is an English-speaking city, which was of vital importance to me. Also, it's not particularly well known and is quite distinctive as a city. I didn't want to find myself in a really touristy place and wanted something traditional, which is why I chose Cardiff. I left for the year abroad at the same time as the world cup and six nations tournement were going on, which I have to admit made me more inclined to go to Cardiff, as it was hosting these events.

How long was your stay? How much financial aid did you receive?

My trip lasted a little under 9 months (from mid-September until mid-May), equivalent to the duration of a school year. With the Erasmus+ grant I received 200 euros per month.

What's the student life like in Cardiff?

Cardiff is definitely a student city. It has several universities and I would say about 70% of the population are students. By just walking around in town you can see that the majority of the people who live here are between 18 and 25 years old. It is home to many Erasmus and international students, which makes for a very interesting mix. There are always parties taking place, no matter the day of the week, as well as loads of other activities for students.

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

I would recommend Cardiff 100%. It's not the biggest city but that makes it even more interesting. The scenery is magnificent; typically Anglo-Saxon. The city centre is very well organised and has great transport connections, and Welsh people are incredibly kind.

What is the food like in this country?

As far as the food going it's not their strong point compared to France. However, there are lots of restaurants offering international food as well as serving a very good English breakfast.

Did you have much difficulty finding accomodation in Cardiff?

No, thanks to the many websites dedicated to student flat-shares I was offered several, and was able to reserve mine two months before arriving.

What's the cost of living in Cardiff?

Coming from the south of France where the cost of living is quite high, I would say that Cardiff isn't too expensive as a city. It helps to familiarise yourself with the ins and outs of the city, and the best shops. But as a general rule, I think a student can get by fine.

How is the language learning? Have you attended a language course organised by the university?

The language learning comes naturally thanks to the many people you meet on a day-to-day basis, or simply as a result of living in a flat-share. At my university I haven't taken a language course, but the teachers and my classmates have been very comprehensive and didn't hesitate to take the time to explain things to me if needed. In a few months I can see that I have made enormous progress.

What is the cheapest way of getting to Cardiff from your City?

For me, the cheapest way has been to fly to London and take a bus from London to Cardiff (only 3 and a half hours by bus) - equally you could fly to Bristol which is also straightforward but not all airports fly there.

What places would you recommend for a night out in Cardiff?

All the pubs! (haha) There are loads of distinctive and cheap pubs which are really good, such as Varsity, The Royal George or even Gassy Jacks. There's also the Live Lounge where the prices are very reasonable - every evening they have bands playing live music and everyone ends up dancing - the atmosphere is great. As for clubs I would recommend Soda Bar or Music as well as Pryzm which is one of the bigger night clubs (3 levels 3 themes).

And there are more!

What about eating out in Cardiff? What are your favourite places?

I often go to The Pot which serves a delicious brunch, as well as to café 37 every Sunday, where you will find lots of students. A more upmarket café is 39 which is situated close to the city centre in a converted house.

And what cultural sites would you recommend?

Cardiff castle is the most important site to see in Cardiff and is difficult to miss. There is also the national museum and the city hall which is very pretty - plus Cardiff Bay. By getting lost in Cardiff you can discover loads of great sights. Don't hesitate to take the train to Bath, Bristol or even Swansea which are all close by and have some beautiful landmarks to see.

Any advice to future Cardiff students?

Get out and about! Don't stay inside just because it's raining and miss out, make use of public transport and make friends with people from who you can learn new things. Go out at night as it's a vibrant city even when the sun goes down. The Welsh have a way of making nightlife quite different from that in France - it's a party town you need to go to!