Talybont
I only have had the pleasure of experiencing Talybont South, (House 26, to be more specific) I was one of the unfortunate souls who had the displeasure of being in lockdown in uni halls. So, I might be slightly biased in saying it was a bit claustrophobic. As far as the student experience side of things, Taly really introduces you to uni life. Every night you never know what you might wake up to—whether that be broken glass, eggs everywhere, or a shopping cart outside your bedroom door (on the fourth floor). Despite living during COVID times, many friendships were made, and it has been and will continue to be a staple of the student experience; it seems to have a certain symbiosis with the chaos of first year. Often it felt like an absolute free-for-all, a whirlwind of drinking, procrastinating, studying, and at the end of it all, you’re amazed that you even got through the year. It wasn’t my favourite place to live but it eases you into studying, living for yourself, and managing your own responsibilities.
Cathays
An introduction to living in a real house is something that most freshers are looking forward to during their first year, or they’re just eager to have a double bed. The Students’ Union minutes away, Cathays campus around the corner, and a stone’s throw from town. Cathays is the hub of student life, whether that be study spaces (pulling all-nighters in the ASSL), sports, partying, or enjoying a cold pint at one of the many pubs. My time in Cathays was only slightly less chaotic than first year halls. Wednesdays especially were something I had to get used to, particularly when I was either studying or just trying to get some sleep. Like Taly, you never know what you might wake up to on your doorstep: sick, empty cans, all the car wipers up, or cones populating your doorstep. Cathays suits those who love a night out and strengthens your ability to manage your money and growing responsibilities.
Roath
Living in Roath was by far the best for me. You’re far enough away from Cathays to not have restless nights, but still close enough to feel involved. It feels like there is a lot more to explore and you get to interact with the community a little bit more. There are markets every weekend by the tennis club, Roath Park is not far, great food, coffee shops, and tons of charity shops. It feels a lot cosier in my opinion and I found it calming in comparison to Cathays. It was my favourite place to live in Cardiff, I had little weekend traditions like going to the bakery to get a gourmet baked good or a loaf of artisanal bread.
Despite Roath being my favourite, I am back in the centre of Cathays simply because it’s hard to beat the convenience of being minutes away from my uni buildings, right next to my work, and close to Lidl. I don’t know if I would want to live in Taly ever again but I am always curious about who ended up moving into my old room and what it’s like now.