Experience in Swansea, United Kingdom by George

What is it like to live in Swansea? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I would certainly recommend living in Swansea as we moved here, from 30 miles north of London, after I had a job here, and have been happy here since. The people are very friendly, with a large student community. The City is not large, but has many restaurants and bars, theatre and cinemas. Being situated at the edge of the Gower Peninsular (the first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) there are a good number of fine beaches, walks, cycle rides, and surfing. The area has good bus communication.

How much does it cost to live in Swansea?

Cost of living in Swansea is very reasonable, especially compared to Cardiff and other large cities. Most of the major supermarkets and their locals are throughout the City

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Swansea? Is there any advice you can give?

There is plentiful accommodation to be had, either near the University campuses of Singleton or the Bay, or nearer into the town. There is a range of styles and prices, with private landlords, private companies, estate agents, and University accommodation. Prices range between about £70 and £140 per week (2018). I would recommend looking through the `rooms to let` sites on the internet

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

There is a wide variety of places to eat at, offering dishes from different countries and differing prices, with a choice of hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Not being much of a gourmet myself, I'm very partial to Fish and Chips. 'Though even they vary in quality, but the shop opposite the Swansea stadium, Rossi's, is reckoned to be one of the best. We then go and eat them sitting by the nearby lake.

What places would you recommend visiting in Swansea?

The Glen Vivian Gallery has a good display of local and general products, and the birthplace and school of the poet Dylan Thomas are worth a visit. Apart from the beaches, there are also some beautiful parks and gardens around Swansea.

Is it good to eat out in Swansea? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

As noted above, there is a good choice of places to eat around the City, but a bit further out in Mumbles (or Oystermouth to give it its proper name) our favourite places to eat out are "Patricks", the "Mermaid", the "Norton House Hotel", or "Castellamare".

Is the nightlife good in Swansea? Where is good to go?

Nightlife seems to revolve around the bars and restaurants in the student area of Uplands, and in the town center, along Wind Street. Though I don't have much personal experience of these.

What advice would you give future students heading to Swansea?

Look for a small house-share near to one of the campuses, Brynmill or St. Thomas, not Townhill, Mayhill, or Mount Pleasant, which are not so easily accessible. Have a look at the Swansea Timetables and bus route website, page 2, to help decide where to look for accommodation.