Erasmus Experience in Swansea, United Kingdom by Raquel

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

It guaranteed me a good study agreement that would recognise and validate all my subjects (Translation and Interpretation). Additionally, they also spoke very highly of Wales and it's standard of living, which is more affordable than other parts of the United Kingdom, something that you can be grateful for if you leave the Euro. Without a doubt it was a successful choice.

Source

How long did the scholarship last? How much money did you receive to help you with living costs?

My scholarship lasted the whole of the academic year, from September to June. As the United Kingdom is part of Band 1 in my university when it comes down to finance, they give me €300 per month.

What is the student lifestyle like in Swansea?

It's incredible, there are so many international students. There is always a party to go to or an activity to do, which never leaves you any time to get bored. The people are very friendly and understanding.

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

Without a shadow of a doubt. It's a place of wonder, at every level.

What is the food like there?

Well, as a Spaniard there is no other type of food, we all know this. The chicken is very popular at the moment, well, it has become a frequent food because it's affordable. In general it's good, although there are some products like salmon that are quite a lot more expensive than in Spain. Anyway, if you just manage to get by in the kitchen, you can go out for good food.

Was it difficult to find your accommodation in Swansea?

It didn't cost me much. A friend put me in contact with her landlord here, but in any case the university has a platform that you can use to find accommodation (SAS, Student Accommodation at Swansea). Also, there are Facebook pages (Swansea Uni Student Houses). What I would recommend is looking at as soon as you confirm your scholarship because the prices start to rise according to the time in the academic year. If you look in time, it's easy to find something reasonable.

Source

How much does it cost to live in Swansea?

The standard of living is reasonable, which it is all over the United Kingdom. You can see the price of food on Tesco's online page, it's a clear example of how much food costs in Britain. The only thing that you could consider expensive are the journeys you'll make; the taxis have reasonable tariffs, but the bus costs around £5 for an all day ticket. I'm almost certain that there is some sort of bus card, and I think it costs around £300 for the whole year, but I'm not sure.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

As a student of Translation and Interpretation, I didn't have any problem with the language. Sometimes the accent could be difficult to understand, but you will get it in the end. The university offers courses if you need to improve your level, although in general, if it's good, you shouldn't have any problem when it comes to taking notes and the rest of things you do in class.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Swansea from your city?

I would recommend flying with Iberia because of the Erasmus student offer they have, and you can take two 23kg suitcases in the hold as well as hand luggage.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Swansea?

Two words: Wind Street.

Is it good to eat out in Swansea? Can you recommend some good restaurants?

There is a lot of variety, the kebabs are great in general.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Swansea has a lot to offer if you know where to look and inform yourself. Not just as a city, as the people are the best fountain of information. There are loads of very interesting international students but the Welsh are always delighted when you tell them things about your culture, region, and your language above all.

Source

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Groningen in the future?

It's the best choice you can make. Swansea is full of opportunities, but you must learn to make the most of them and experience all the levels of the city.