Most of the young internationals who go on exchange to Cardiff choose to live in shared flats with other flatmates. If this is also your preference, we recommend that you start the search as soon as possible to be able to find the ideal one for you more easily.
Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Cardiff
These are some of the most outstanding of living in shared flats in the Welsh city:
Advantages of sharing a flat in Cardiff
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You will be able to choose between spare rooms in private shared flats or student residences. Take a good look at what the rent price includes, since residences may include a gym and cleaning service.
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In some cases, you can choose between a private individual room and a shared room. The latter usually have a lower cost per person.
Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Cardiff
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Remember that living in a student residence means complying with more rules regarding hours and noise.
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Some owners do not include the bedding, so you will have to buy it when you arrive or bring it from home.
Apps for your international exchange programme in Cardiff
To maximize your exchange experience, we recommend that you use Apps in which you will find information and advice on different aspects of the exchange (schedules, paperwork, forms, etc.) and life in the city. For example, some of the students who have been to Cardiff say that with an umbrella, a raincoat and shoes that resist rain, you will quickly get used to the weather and you will be able to enjoy the city to the fullest.
How to meet people in Cardiff
Consider one of the following ways to meet people in the Welsh capital:
Student associations in Cardiff
Each of the Cardiff universities has different clubs and associations that you can join. For example, Cardiff University has more than 200 different ones from the most varied fields, including art (dance, song, music, etc.), different sports, nationalities, religions, causes and interests (such as linguistics, journalism, medicine, meditation, among others).
Facebook groups for international students in Cardiff
There are several groups on this social network for international students, such as the one called Cardiff University International Study Centre. In these groups, you can receive support when you arrive in the city and also find out about different activities that are planned for the integration of young people, especially during the first month of the academic year.
Whatsapp groups for international students in Cardiff
Both from Facebook groups and from societies and clubs, WhatsApp groups are usually created that you can join. In them you will be able to be in more direct contact with the other students, knowing their interests and planning activities on their own.
Tips for living in a shared apartment in Cardiff
Here are some tips for you to take into account:
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Public transport in Cardiff is very good, so you will be able to choose accommodation in the most convenient neighbourhood for you without thinking about it, such as Cathays, Grangetown, Roath, Maindy or the city centre.
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During your stay in Cardiff, you can't miss out on attending a football match, rugby match or a game played by a local team, such as Cardiff City FC. This way you will be able to witness the passion that the Welsh feels for their teams and sports.