Erasmus experience in Swansea, United Kingdom by Esmeralda

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Why did you decide to go to Swansea, UK?

Of all the places that were offered, this was the place that grabbed my attention the most due to its landscape and sights, as well as the beach next to the university.

What is the student life like in Swansea?

It’s nice. The first semester is all about getting to know the place and a freshers fair to introduce the sports clubs and societies that are available, including: football, rugby, book clubs, Spanish society, basketball and animation.

Would you recommend the city and Swansea University to other students?

Definitely. Swansea is a small city but it has an attractive landscape, its nightlife and culture is great and the people are friendly.

What is the food like?

In my opinion, nothing beats my mom's cooking. I live in one of the most agricultural areas of Spain, where almost everything we eat is fresh produce. In Swansea, none of the vegetables, eggs, meat or fish are fresh even if the label says so. However, as I’ve said previously, I’m very picky with food. What I will say is that if I can survive there, then anyone can.

Was it difficult for you to find accommodation in Swansea?

No. My classmate and I looked for a place to live on different websites and we found an offer that we were interested in. So we got in contact with the landlord and asked to rent it.

How expensive is it to live in Swansea?

In my case, I spent around 400 or 450 euros a month.

What is the language like? Did you attend any language courses at University?

I studied English philology, so in my case the language wasn’t a big challenge.

What is the best way to get to Swansea from your hometown?

Travel from Seville or Madrid to Bristol, then take the coach to Swansea.

I was in Swansea 3 years ago and over that time the planes cost around 50 euros and the coach around 20 euros.

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Which places would you recommend visiting in Swansea for nightlife?

That’s very easy. There's one street full of bars called Wind Street, known to everyone as Wine Street. The two places I went to most often were Revolution and Oceana.

Within the University Campus there is a club called Tooters and they are open every Friday. I would recommend there too.

For eating, which places would you recommend? Which were your favorites?

Without a doubt, Nandos and a Spanish restaurant called Tapas which was a little further out but still in the same area as Nandos on Wind Street.

What’s the culture like in Swansea?

I visited the Dylan Thomas museum, Three Cliffs bay and walk paths around Mumbles.

The fireworks on the beach on the 12th of October or November were incredible too. People built fires and barbecued on them. As it got darker, they set off fireworks and lit candles, which lit up the beach.

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What advice would you give to future students in Swansea?

When you arrive at Swansea and look for Spanish students, try to look for students from other countries too so that you can meet people of different cultures and have different experiences.