Travel Study

Discover…University of Wales Trinity Saint David

International Student Handbook

University of Wales Trinity Saint David will take all reasonable steps to provide the facilitiesset out in this Guide. However, it does not guarantee the provision of such services, andreserves the right to revise, cancel, modify or suspend all or any of these services.

ContentsWelcome to Trinity Saint David . . . . . .5

International Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Preparing Yourself . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

What to bring with you . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Accommodation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Life at Trinity Saint David . . . . . . . . . .12

Your first few days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Registering with the Police . . . . . . . . .14

Registering with a local Doctor . . . . .14

Money Matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Working in the UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Student Support & Student Services18

Cultural Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Travelling around the UK . . . . . . . . . . .23

Travelling Abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Be Aware! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

What to do if you have a problem . .25

Useful Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Our locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

WelcomeTrinity Saint David is pleased to welcome you as one of ourinternational students. We hope that you will find your timehere both academically stimulating and socially rewarding.

This Guide This International Student Guide is designed specifically for internationalstudents to provide an introduction to the University and general questionsabout student life. The information in this guide is intended to bestraightforward and brief, to give you suggestions in preparing for yourjourney and your stay here. Have a safe and pleasant journey. We look forwardto meeting you!

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A proud heritage developed over three centuries of learning and teaching

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Welcome to Trinity Saint David

Our University is the newest in Wales,yet our roots stretch back to thecreation of our founding institutions in1822 and 1848.

The creation of a new university is anexciting challenge: it is an opportunityto build upon existing excellence tocreate a sustainable future.

Our campuses in Carmarthen and Lampeter offer a beautiful and enrichingenvironment with everything that you need on one site. The friendly and welcomingatmosphere is obvious and each campus brings people together to form a close-knitcommunity in which the ability to recognise and respect the individual is paramount.We acknowledge that in choosing a university programme, you are making aconsiderable commitment and investment in your future. It is a decision that we takeseriously, and we promise to make every effort to ensure that your experience as astudent will help you to develop your potential to the full.

We will, of course, provide you with sound academic knowledge, but we also believethat the rich cultural and social experience you will have will help you to develop arange of personal and professional qualities.

We invite you to the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and to share these excitingtimes with us.

The International Office isthe main point of contact forstudents on each campus.The services providedinclude helping you with theapplication process,corresponding with youbefore your arrival in Wales,and looking after you whilstyou are at Trinity Saint David.

We offer:• Advice and guidance on coursesand how to apply

• Airport pick-up (specific dates andtimes, please contact for details)

• Intensive orientation programme• Cultural Experiences • Open office surgery sessions• Dedicated staff who are there tohelp make your experience amemorable one

• International Office events

The pastoral care of students iscentral to the work of theInternational Office. The team of staffis responsible for providing supportand guidance for students on anumber of issues including practicaladvice on course choices, financeand visa issues.

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International Office

RegistrationWhen you arrive, you will need to register. You should bring the following:• Passport• Visa• Original qualification certificates (with official translation if not in English)• 2 x Passport photographs• CRB check if required

A warm welcome…a great place with great opportunities

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Health and InsuranceNo vaccinations are required to travel to the UK or mostother European countries. However, new entrants to theUK from outside Europe, North America or Australasia,should bring a record of a recent chest X-ray to show theimmigration officer on arrival. If you do not have one, youmay be screened on arrival to ensure that you do nothave TB.

You are strongly recommended to have travel insuranceand personal health insurance, Endsleigh Insurancespecialise in student insurance (www.endsleigh.co.uk). As afull-time student of Trinity Saint David, you must register atthe local Medical Centre. Should you need to be admittedto hospital, there are charges for overseas visitors’ treatmentby National Health Service hospital or doctors, but studentson programmes of 6 months or more are eligible to receivefull health care under the NHS (National Health Service)from the day of their arrival in the UK.

However, these do not apply to treatment following anaccident. You are strongly advised to bring with youadequate supplies of any medication you take on aregular basis. Do not assume that the same brands orprescribed treatment will be available in the UK.

Dental Care is also available under the NHS but, as withother health care, you will be required to contribute to thecost of your treatment. You should check with the dentistbefore your treatment to confirm how much this mightbe. If you have medical insurance you may be able toreclaim such cost when you return to yourhome country. Have a dental check-upbefore you leave home.

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring yourprescription (or better, a spare pair) with you. Replacementof glasses/contact lenses could be very expensive. The NHSdoes not provide for free eye testing or correctivespectacles.

The stress of travel, time changes, changes in food andwater, can cause temporary physical problems. Beprepared by bringing along your usual remedies forheadaches, upset stomach, diarrhoea and the commoncold; pack them in your hand luggage so that they arereadily available on your journey.

Passport & VisaWell before you intend to travel make sure your passportis valid and that it will remain valid throughout the periodof your stay. Check with the United Kingdom's Embassy orHigh Commission in your home Country to see if yourequire a visa. If you do require a visa, make sure youapply for it well in advance. You should visitwww.ukvisas.gov.uk.

Health ChecksOccasionally, students (and other people) entering thecountry for periods in excess of 6 months are subjected tohealth checks. This could involve questioning and/ormedical examination. If you have your medical historyrecords to hand (e.g. dates if immunisation orvaccination), it could save you time and trouble.

Preparing Yourself

ChecklistThings to carry with you:• Passport• Valid Student VISA or Student Visitorletter

• Airline Tickets• Letter of Acceptance from Trinity SaintDavid

• CRB Check (if required)• 2 x Passport size photographs• Sufficient UK Currency (Cash) for yourfirst few weeks

• Any medical conditions - please carrymedications

This International Student Guide!!

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What to bring with you

Excellent facilities… providing everything you need as a student

LuggageTravel light - remember you will have to carry your ownluggage! Two medium-sized suitcases are better than onelarge one; huge suitcases do not fit in luggage racks ontrains or in boots (trunks) of small European cars, and oftenthere are airline restrictions on the size and number ofsuitcase you may take. There is also limited space in theairport pick-up bus, and in the University rooms. So, whenyou have packed what you think you will need, look againand take out a third! Put your address and destination onthe inside and outside of all pieces of luggage. Keep yourpassport and papers in your hand luggage and do notpack them into your suitcase.

ClothesMost students dress very informally in jeans, t-shirts andsweaters, but it would be advisable to have oneconventional outfit for more formal occasions (i.e.Thanksgiving Dinner). It is difficult to predict the weatherin Wales, although you are unlikely to experience extremesof temperature. However, you may have to cope with snowand ice in the winter months, and all year round it can rain!Bring warm and comfortable clothing.

ClimateDaytime temperatures average between 5º centigrade inthe winter and 20º centigrade in the summer.

Electrical equipmentIn the United Kingdom, electrical equipment operates on220-240 volts AC, at 50 cycles per second. Europeanelectrical equipment should work without any problems.However, most American equipment is designed to operateon 110-120 volts at 60 cycles and equipment from othercountries uses other voltages and frequencies. The sizes of

electric plugs and sockets in the United Kingdom are alsodifferent from those in other countries. Electrical converterswhich allow foreign equipment to operate in the UK areexpensive (but less expensive in London than the USA) andseem to ruin some equipment, such as laptops. Radios dowork on converters but hairdryers and hair straightenersoverload, fuse and sometimes catch fire. In short, youshould plan to buy cheap new appliances in the UK.

BooksBooks are less expensive sent by mail at 'Book Rate' or'Printed Paper Rate', which means that the package mustbe seem to contain only printed matter. Check with yourhome post office.

Other itemsIf you live in University, you will need to bring blankets, bathand hand towels. You will need pots and pans, plates andcutlery, but these can be purchased locally at reasonableprices. Remember to include some coat-hangers - so thatyou can hang up your things when you unpack!

Fees and living expensesThe cost of living in either Lampeter or Carmarthen islower than in many parts of the UK.

When you arriveTrinity Saint David Carmarthen and Lampeter Campuses areapproximately 215 miles from London. You may arrangeyour own transportation from the airport, but in order tomake your first day a little easier, the International Officewill provide a bus to collect all international students at thesame time. Before your arrival we will notify you of thearrival date. Students are advised to fly into HeathrowAirport in London. Please contact the International Officefor Airport pick-up fees.

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A lifetime experience…making the most of your university days

AccommodationThe accommodation at Carmarthen and Lampeter are alllocated on the main campus. We are fortunate to be ableto accommodate the vast majority of first year studentsin the Halls of Residence. Second, third year andpostgraduate students are able to choose our en-suiteself-catering flats.

There are cooking facilities for you to make your ownmeals or if you wish, you may buy your food at theUniversity's restaurant, café and fast-food bar.

Useful Information• Toilet tissue: is not provided in any campus accommodation andstudents have to provide their own.

• Electrical items: are permitted in study bedrooms but any form ofcooking, preparation or storage of food cannot be allowed as it iscontrary to fire safety and hygiene rules.

• Televisions, radios and music centres: are allowed in study bedroomssubject to the sound being kept down to a reasonable level.

• TV licence: Students must obtain their own TV Licence as their TV will notbe covered by the University's licence or a licence held by their parents.

• Laundry facilities: in the form of coin operated washing machines anddryers, are available on both campuses.

• Heat, light and council tax: costs are included in the rent.

Accommodation / Residential OfficerThe University has an Accommodation / Residential Officer who is responsible for allocation of rooms, issuing of residentialcontracts and issuing of keys. The Accommodation / Residential Officer is also responsible for monitoring the standard of theHalls of Residence as well as dealing with antisocial behaviour and initiating disciplinary procedures where necessary. If youhave a complaint about your accommodation you should visit the Estates Office which is available on both campuses.

Great value for money…• No hidden utility bill costs • Free internet access • CCTV and 24-hour security

All facilities are withineasy reach…• Teaching rooms • Learning Resources Centre (Library)• IT Desktops • Sports Centre • Swimming Pool (Carmarthen Campusonly)

• Restaurant • Students' Union

Live on campus…• Be a member of one of the manysports clubs, including basketball,football, rugby, surfing, and hockey

• Join the University Choir • Attend events in the evening • Get involved in the University's manyarts events

• Socialise with your friends in your hallsor the Students' Union

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Life at Trinity Saint David

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Be independent, yet secure…live on campus

EmergenciesOn CampusTrinity Saint David provides 24-hour security presenceon campus. Students should refer to the Estates Officeor contact the Porter, which are all located on bothCampuses.

Action in event of a fireTrinity Saint David's fire plan is on display throughoutthe University and is called the 'Fire Action' notice.There are two notices in use. The first is for generalareas and the second is for use in the bedrooms.

The most important message is to get out and go tothe assembly area and remain there until you are toldit is safe to return. The fire evacuation drill is carriedout once a year in the general areas and twice a yearfor residents. All the security staff are first aid trained.

In an emergency, dial 999 from any phone. THIS ISALWAYS FREE. The operator will ask you whether youneed 'Fire, police or ambulance' and you shouldexplain which service you require. They will also askyou where you are so that help can be sent. It is illegalto call out emergency services when there is not a realemergency.

Personal SafetyEven in small towns like Carmarthen and Lampeter, and especially when you travel to larger cities,you need to be careful with your personal possessions, especially those of value. Thieves are alwayslooking for the opportunity to steal, so always be careful. Although both Carmarthen and Lampeterare generally safe places, always take sensible precautions, particularly at night and also try not totravel alone.

At Night• Walk in well-lit areas where there are other people.• If possible, travel home in a group.• Don't walk and talk on your mobile phone.• Use your common sense.

Your first few days…Jet LagYou may find jet lag is a problem. To overcome this,try to stay awake the first day you arrive and go tobed as late as possible. If you must, have a short sleepduring your first day but for a couple of hours only.Try to fit meal times to suit your new time zone,rather than eating when hungry. You should avoidfood and drink that contains alcohol and caffeine. Youwill find jet lag is temporary and you will soon adjust.

Orientation Programme We have a full programme of induction andorientation events in the first few days of arrival. It isimportant to participate in these events as they willfamiliarise you with the University, the facilities andthe people.

Take advantage of the opportunity to meet yourfellow students on campus tours, do some essentialshopping at the local shops and explore Wales as agroup. Once you have completed the OrientationProgramme you will be ready for studying at TrinitySaint David and living in Wales.

Registering with the PoliceIf you are not a national of an EEA or BritishCommonwealth country and you are studyingfor longer than 6 months, you may have toregister with the police within 7 days of arriving.The stamp in your passport will confirm if youneed to do this. If you are unsure, please ask amember of the International Office. It is veryimportant that you register with the police. Ifyou do not, you may experience problems withvisas and immigration in the future. You canregister at the local police station:

• Carmarthen: Carmarthen Police Station , Friars Park,Carmarthen SA31 3AW Tel: 01267 232000

• Lampeter: Lampeter Police Station, High St , Lampeter,Ceredigion SA48 7BH

What you need to take with you• Registration Fee • Passport• 2 x Passport Photographs • Letter from Trinity Saint David confirmingyour study; requested from Registry

When should I register with the police?You should register with the police within 7days of arriving in the UK.

What happens if I do not register?If you do not register youcould receive a fine of upto £5,000 or even a prisonsentence. Also if you wantto work here or extendyour visa you will need tohave registered with thepolice.

Registering with a local DoctorYou will need to register with a doctor soonafter arrival at Trinity Saint David. Do not waituntil you are unwell. Contact the InternationalOffice for further information on your localdoctor and Medical Centre. Treatment foraccidents and emergencies is free for everyonewhen they are in the Accident and EmergencyDepartment of a National Health Service (NHS)hospital.

Helpful HintsMinor ailments such as sore throats, coughs,colds and flu symptoms are common at thestart of the academic year. This is often called'freshers flu'. These complaints should betreated by you with simple medication such asparacetamol, aspirin or cough medicine (and bydrinking plenty of fluids). If, however, after 3days you are still unwell, you should seektreatment at the Medical Centre. To help youtreat yourself, we suggest that you have thefollowing 'first-aid kit' available. All the itemsare available without prescription.• Assorted plasters• Antiseptic Cream (e.g. TCP)• Paracetamol (for headaches and fever)• Throat lozenges and soluble aspirin (for sorethroats)

• Imodium capsules (for diarrhoea)• Cough medicine

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A caring environment…providing supprt when you need it

Money Matters Opening a bank accountBanks are normally open from 9:00am - 4:30pm, Monday -Friday; and some large branches open on a Saturdaymorning. The services they offer include: current (cheque)and deposit (saving) accounts, currency exchange,international transfers, loans and credit cards.

Shop around to see which bank suits you best and thenvisit the local branch of the bank you have chosen. Youwill need to take proof of who you are and where you livei.e. passport and a typed letter that has been mailed toyour term time address.

The four main banks in Carmarthen town are:NatWest LloydsTSB59 King Street 5 Blue StreetCarmarthen SA311BB Carmarthen SA31 3LQ01267 235 715 0845 072 3333

HSBC Barclays15 Lammas Street 9-10 Guildhall SquareCarmarthen SA31 3AQ Carmarthen SA311PW0845 740 4404 01267 232 444

The four main banks in Lampeter town are:NatWest LloydsTSD37 High Street 9 High StreetLampeter SA48 7AW Lampeter SA48 7BQ01570 422519 0845 300 0000

HSBC BarclaysHarford Square Harford SquareLampeter SA48 7DU Lampeter SA48 7HF08457 404 404 08457 555 555

Please Note: Students studying at Trinity Saint David for 6months or less will find it difficult to open a bank account.In this case students should consider bringing over theirown credit/debit card to use in the UK. Please note it cantake up to 3 weeks to open a bank account. Check withhome bank if they charge for intern transactions/taking outmoney. Most banks have special intern cards. Please alsocheck if your home bank has an alliance with a UK bank.

Cash Points (ATM)There is a cash point situated in the Students' Union onboth campuses and at each bank in the town centre.Beware of usage charges.

Preventing HardshipYou should not travel to the UK or begin a course of studywithout making sure that you have enough money tocover all your academic fees and living expenses. It isvirtually impossible to make arrangements for financialsupport once you have left your own country.

MoneyThe unit of currency is pound sterling. One pound isdivided into 100 pence. There are coins for 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p,20p, 50p, £1 & £2, and paper notes for £5, £10, £20, & £50.

Exchange ratesExchange rates change all the time. Visitwww.expedia.co.uk for an accurate currency converter.

Working in the UKYou may wish to earn some extra money during yourtime as a student in the UK. Legally undergraduates arepermitted to work for a specified number of hours perweek during the term time. There are differencesbetween undergraduate and postgraduate permittedworking hours. Please ask in the International Office forfurther information. You must not use estimated part-time earnings as evidence that you will be able tosupport yourself. Any part-time earnings must be extra.

Website AddressesBritish Council - www.britishcouncil.orgBritish Foreign & Commonwealth Office -www.fco.gov.ukHome Office - www.homeoffice.gov.ukUKCISA - www.ukcisa.org.uk

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A supportive environment…helping you to achieve your full potential

Support

When you arrive at Trinity Saint Davidtry to mix with the UK students andother international students rather thanstaying with students from your hometown/country. This will help you settlein and make the most from your timeat Trinity Saint David.

Try to introduce yourself to people in your class orin the Halls of Residence, even if this is a littledaunting it is well worth it - remember that you'reall in the same position!

During your first week at Trinity Saint David youwill formally register for your courses, be issued

with a Trinity Saint David librarycard and given anintroduction to the library andlearn to find your way aroundcampus and local area.

Please note you can purchasean NUS card online, for furtherinformation please visit theNUS websitehttp://www.nus.org.uk/.

You will also have theopportunity to join a numberof Trinity Saint David's variousstudent groups. During thefirst week of the semester theStudents' Union holds a'Freshers Fair'. This is a greatopportunity to join societiesand clubs and to learn aboutextra-curricular activities atTrinity Saint David.

In addition to theInternational Office, TrinitySaint David has a number ofdepartments which offersupport that you may needduring your studies. Some ofthe University facilities arelisted below.

Personal TutorFor students following an undergraduate orpostgraduate degree you will be informed of yourPersonal Tutor's name and of the meeting plannedduring your first week at Trinity Saint David.Should you have difficulties regarding your coursethen you should raise the issue with one of yourlecturers.

If after discussions with your lecturer thedifficulties are still unresolved, then you shouldcontact your Personal Tutor.

Where the difficulty persists after your meetingwith your Personal Tutor you can ask for anappointment to meet with your Head of Schoolwho will, if need be, consult with the Dean ofFaculty.

Hostel WardensIf you are living on campus one of the first peopleyou are likely to meet will be your Hostel Warden.Hostel Wardens are students who have beenstudying at Trinity Saint David for at least a yearwho can answer all the questions that are likely tocome up during your first few days and weeks, e.g.Where can I buy food? Which is the cheapestsupermarket? How will I know where my classesare held?

It's common for international students to feel alittle homesick at times during the first weeks aswell as having to adjust to a new culture. If you arefeeling down, you should take the opportunity tospeak with your Hostel Warden; they'll assure youthat it's very common and thankfully short-lived.

Halls of Residence are lively and socialenvironments for new students but can also beloud. If ever your neighbours are disrupting yourstudy or sleep always bring this to the attention ofyour Warden.

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Student ServicesSupport for Students with DisabilitiesTrinity Saint David welcomes students who requiresupport with their studies, whether arising from a physicaldisability, sensory impairment, dyslexia, or any other cause.Students with disabilities and learning difficulties are giventhe same consideration as those of all other candidates.

At Trinity Saint David, all students are valued equally, andthe University is committed to ensuring that students withdisabilities are treated on an equal basis with other students.

Special assessment and examination arrangements can bemade for individual students where necessary in line withthe guidelines laid down by the relevant validating bodies.

These may include extra time in examinations/assessments, the provision of large-print/brailleexamination papers, and - in certain instances - the use ofreaders or amanuenses.

** Trinity Saint David can only offer adequate support forstudents with disabilities if the student notifies theUniversity in advance.

Information Services & InformationTechnologyWe have computer suites available on Carmarthen andLampeter Campuses, along with network access.

Internet The Web site publishes information about all Universityacademic and support services. The 'Web Resources'section of the Web site also provides access to a wideselection of external websites that we hope will give you ataste of the wealth of beautiful scenery, activities andinteresting and fun places waiting for you inCarmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Wales.

Trinity Saint David Website: www.trinitysaintdavid.ac.uk Don't forget to visit the International Office section on thewebsite: www.tsd.ac.uk/en/international

University Library All new students will be given a guided tour of theUniversity Library. This is an introduction to borrowingitems for your studies and finding subject-related andother resources. It's also an opportunity to meet the staff,who are always happy to help you find the informationyou need.

Networked computers provide access to the Internet, e-mailand the MS Office suite of applications, as well as providinga link to the Learning Resources' Centre catalogue.

University Shop and ReprographicsCentreAs a new student you will need all basic stationery. TheUniversity shop and Reprographics Centre offerseverything you need at very reasonable prices as well as: • Requirements for projects, assignments and teachingpractice

• Audio tapes, batteries, disks, etc• Laminating and binding facilities

Students' UnionThe Students' Union is run by students who organisesocial events, clubs and societies. These students workpart-time on a voluntary basis for one year while they arestudents.

WelfareThe SU Welfare Service offers a free, confidential andindependent service intended to support students withany problems or concerns that they may have. They alsoaim to maintain and promote the welfare of Students bysupplying you with helpful information and runningcampaigns on a whole host of issues such as health,accommodation and finance. Please remember if youhave any kind of problem, or you need somebody to talkto, then please approach someone in the Union.

Explore new opportunities…national culture and heritage

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Cultural Programme The Cultural Programme is animportant part of your time atTrinity Saint David. TheProgramme provides excursionsto various locations in Wales andEngland throughout the year.

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Llansteffan & Dylan Thomas'BoathouseLlansteffan is a small village just 8 miles from Carmarthen.Yet nestled on the shore of the Tywi Estuary, this village ishome to Llansteffan Castle, a 12th century Norman Castle.Following a short climb up a hill, views of both the sandsand countryside are breathtaking, and the remains of thecastle show considerable sophistication and architecturalprowess.

A stone-throw away, lies Laugharne, and the DylanThomas Boathouse. Dylan Thomas is maybe the mostfamous Anglo-Welsh poet, ever. His life and work is knownthroughout the world. He spent the last four of his short39 years composing his poetry in the little village ofLaugharne. You can visit his Boathouse, but beware:

'And some, like myself, just came, one day, for the day, andnever left; got off the bus, and forgot to get on again.'(Dylan Thomas on Laugharne, taken from Quite Early OneMorning).

Pembrokeshire CoastWales boasts some of the most spectacular coastline inGreat Britain. The Pembrokeshire Coast has miles andmiles of natural attractions, like cliffs, beaches, caves andof course wildlife. Visitors can spot seals, puffins, wildhorses and many other wild creatures in their naturalhabitat.

This trip also includes a visit to St David's, Britain's smallestCity! This is home to a splendid 12th Century Abbey,which was built on the ancient home and church of St.David, patron Saint of Wales.

Something for everyone…an exciting and varied cultural programme

These excursions vary slightly from year to year, but usually include some of the following:

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CardiffThe capital of Wales Cardiff (Caerdydd in Welsh) was once the world's leadingcoal-exporting port. Now, it is a destination point for tourists and native Welshalike. An inviting new waterfront, set along Cardiff Bay, is the home to theMillennium Centre (a state of the art theatre/opera House).

You can also visit the Millennium Stadium, the home of Welsh rugby! Cardiff has arich history dating back 2,000 years. Its famous castle, built in Roman times, was'recreated' as a medieval-styled showpiece in the nineteenth century. Otherpopular attractions in the area include the striking Civic Centre, which houses theNational Museum, and the city's Victorian arcades, which offer great shopping.

Big Pit Coal mining is an integral part of Welsh History. Big Pit was a working coalmineuntil it closed in 1980. Then in 1983 it became a museum of the South Walesmining industry and is now known as the National Mining Museum of Wales. Itstands high on the bracken-clad moors of north Gwent (south-east Wales). Thehighlight of the visit is the hour-long underground tour, led by ex-miners, whichtakes you down in the pit cage to walk through underground roadways, airdoors, stables and engine houses built by generations of mineworkers. On thesurface you can explore the colliery buildings - the engine-house, theblacksmiths' workshop and the pithead baths.

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AberystwythOnce a mining-town, Aberystwyth is now a cultural hub,hosting the National Library of Wales. The National Libraryis one of the great libraries of the world. Since 1911 it hasenjoyed the right to collect, free of charge, a copy of everyprinted work published in Britain and Ireland. It alsohouses exhibitions and is home to many rare Welsh andCeltic manuscripts. You will be able to take the cliff railwayup Constitution Hill and visit Aberystwyth Castle, aNorman Castle built on the site of an Iron Age fortification.Shopping and walks along the promenade are also a mustfor any visitor!

Swansea Swansea is the birthplace of Dylan Thomas and CatherineZeta Jones! Castle Square lies at the heart of Swansea citycentre and is surrounded by an array of shops and cafeson one side and Swansea Castle on the other. CastleSquare stages many events throughout the year, includingfayres, markets and open-air concerts. During this visit,the group usually goes to the cinema and catches one ofthe latest movies.

LondonStudents spend the whole weekend exploring London:Among the many places of interest are Westminster;Buckingham Palace; Covent Garden; Trafalgar Square;Oxford Street and Knightsbridge. Students are free to plantheir own activities, from sightseeing to seeing a West EndMusical!

Bath, EnglandFor two thousand years Bath has been a spa town, builtaround Britain's only hot mineral springs. For centuriesthis natural phenomenon has attracted visitors to Bath,and led to a unique historic urban environment aroundthe springs. The Romans were the first to realise the valueof the hot mineral water. They built their religious spa ofAquae Sulis around the three springs. The Roman Baths isbelow the modern street level and has four main features,the Sacred Spring, the Roman Temple, the Roman bathhouse and finds from Roman Bath. The Georgian PumpRoom is on the ground level. Bath is also known for itsshops and was once the home to literary figure, JaneAustin. This visit is always a favourite among internationalstudents!

Excursions take place on weekends and you are accompanied by members of the International Office who providehistorical and cultural information. This is a great way to get to know Wales and England in a safe and friendlyenvironment. Please contact the International Office for further information.

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Trains• National Railwww.nationalrail.co.uk Call: 08457 48 49 50 (24hrs)

• ARRIVA Train www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk Call: 08457 48 49 50 (24hrs)

Buses• First CymruCarmarthen, Llanelli, Neath, Maesteg, Port Talbot andSwansea. Also runs the Shuttle service betweenSwansea and Cardiffwww.firstgroup.com/ukbus/ wales/swwales/home/Call: 0870 608 2608

• Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire BusesThese council sites contain 'Travel Times', a regular news bulletin which brings you the latest information on Ceredigion and Carmarthenshire public transport networkwww.carmarthenshire.gov.uk www.ceredigion.gov.uk

• Richards BrothersSt Davids, Haverfordwest, Fishguard, Cardigan, StDogmaels, Newgale, Mathry, Newcastle Emlyn, Saron,Llandysul, Carmarthen, Aberporth, Aberaeron, NewQuay, Llangrannog, and Aberystwyth. www.gobybus.net Call: 01239 613756

• Pembrokeshire GreenwaysPembrokeshire Coastal Bus scheme www.pembrokeshiregreenways.co.uk

• National Express A variety of the longer distance journeys in the region.Website: www.nationalexpress.com Call: 08705 808080

Student RailcardFull time students aged between 16-25 years old qualifyfor a Student Railcard with British Rail (If you are over 26and in full-time education, you may also apply). You cansave 1/3rd on most rail fares. It costs approximately £26 ayear. A Student RAILCARD can pay for itself in just one ortwo trips.

Travel by rail, by road or by sea. You will find you can savea third on most ticket types all over Britain including thepopular Cheap Day Returns, Saver and Supersaver fares.You can also use a Young Persons Rail Card to buy throughtickets on many bus and ship links.

If travelling on long distance journeys, you'll find that it'sworth booking your ticket in advance, as this can helpsave even more money. You can purchase your StudentRailcard at any railway station in the UK. Visitwww.railcard.co.uk for more information.

Travelling around the UK

Keeping you connected…travelling made easy

Travelling within the UK is very easy. Trains and buses run locally throughout the day. Please beaware that times may change during weekends and bank holidays.

Travelling withinEuropeThe Schengen Visa Scheme is ascheme that allows visitors to obtain only one visa to visit anumber of designated countries within the European EconomicArea (EEA) - see below.

You can fly from all of the major airports inEngland - Heathrow, Gatwick, and you can alsotravel within Europe from Cardiff InternationalAirport and Bristol International Airport. Stopby the International Office for advice on howto get a student discount with an internationalstudent card.

Travelling Abroad

Non-EEA nationals who wish to visit one or more of thecountries covered by the scheme should apply for aSchengen visa to either: • the embassy/consulate of whichever of the 25 countriesthey plan to spend most or all of their time in; or

• the embassy/consulate of the country they will go tofirst, if they plan to spend about the same amount oftime in a number of countries within the scheme.

The visa will enable them to visit any number of thetwenty-five participating states during the course of onetrip, which could last up to 3 months.

Each Embassy or Consulate produces itsown application form for the visa andstudents will need to contact theappropriate authority. Charges varyaccording to the country which issues theSchengen visa. Students should thinkahead and make enquiries about the visaat an early stage. For further information,come to the International Office.

At present, twenty-five countries in the EEA now participate in the scheme:

• Austria • Belgium • CzechRepublic

• Denmark• Estonia• Finland

• France• Germany• Greece• Hungary• Iceland• Italy• Latvia

• Lithuania• Luxembourg• Malta • Netherlands• Norway• Poland• Portugal

• Slovakia• Slovenia• Spain • Sweden• Switzerland

For low cost European flights:Easyjet - www.easyjet.comRyanair - www.ryanair.comAir Wales - www.airwales.co.ukBMI Baby - www.bmibaby.com

*Please check to see if you need toobtain a visa to travel outside the UK.*

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Be Aware!AlcoholThe UK licensing laws permit the sale of alcoholic drink toanyone over the age of 18. Younger people aged 16+ areallowed into bars (pubs) but are not allowed to buy ordrink alcoholic drinks.

You can buy cans and bottles of wine, beer and spirits atmost times of the day from grocery stores andsupermarkets.

Pubs, off-licences and places where alcohol may beconsumed on the premises are restricted in the hourswhen they are permitted to sell or serve alcoholicbeverages.

Recently there has been some relaxation in theserestrictions and in larger cities you will find pubs, bars andlicensed cafés open all day. If you are going to drinkalcohol, please do so in moderation.

DrugsDrugs are always a serious matter - do not get involved.Buying, dealing or trafficking in illegal drugs is especiallyserious. The British system is very harsh on offenders.

Law enforcement is strong, and the police have wide-ranging stop and seizure powers. If you get involved inany way you could face deportation, a heavy fine and/orimprisonment.

Road SafetyIn the UK, road traffic drives on the left. When crossing theroad try to get into the habit of looking right, left andright to check before crossing the road - this may soundobvious but it can be disorientating! On busy roads alwaysuse the 'pedestrian crossing' if possible.

To drive in Britain you must have a valid driving licence. Ifyou are going to be here for 12 months or less, you canuse the driving licence from your own country. You shouldvisit the DVLA website for further informationhttp://www.dft.gov.uk/dvla/

Remember the following:• It is a criminal offence to drive a car without adequateinsurance; road tax; a valid MOT; a drivers licence

• Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight• Keep within the speed limit• Report any accidents to the police• Pay any parking fines promptly• Don't drink and drive (Alcohol)• Wear a seatbelt at all times, including in the back seat

What to do if you have a problemFrom time to time, every student has problems. If you findyourself in a difficult situation and you need help oradvice, do not be afraid to ask. Usually most problems canbe dealt with as follows:• Academic Programme - See a member of staffresponsible for arranging your study, your personaltutor or the Head of Department.

• Registration/ID cards - See the Registry. • Accommodation - See your Hostel Warden or theAccommodation / Residential Officer.

• Racism/Sexism - See a representative of the StudentUnion or visit the International Office.

• Personal Problems - See the counselling service locatedin the Student Services, or visit the Welfare Office in theStudent Union. You can always approach theInternational Office for more informal help andguidance.

If your problems cannot be solved by any of these people- or if you prefer - then please see the staff of theInternational Office, who will do their best to offer anyassistance they can. It is always best to seek advice in theUK as people here will be able to help you much morequickly and effectively than people abroad.

Don't be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help - we will doour very best to help!

Travelling Abroad

26 | www.tsd.ac.uk

Your new addressWhile at Trinity Saint David, peoplecan send you mail at the followingaddress:

Your nameYour room number (you will beassigned a number upon arrival)University of Wales Trinity Saint David Carmarthen CampusCarmarthen SA31 3EPWales UK

Your nameYour room number (you will beassigned a number upon arrival)University of Wales Trinity Saint David Lampeter CampusLampeter SA48 7ED Wales UK

Phone Numbers If you are calling from overseas, youuse the country code for the UK, (+44)and then omit the 0 from thebeginning of the area code, e.g. to callthe International Office, you dial +441267 67 6601. If you are calling fromwithin the UK but outside Carmarthen,you dial 01267 67 6601. If you arecalling from within Carmarthen, youcall 67 6601. Numbers beginning with0800 are free.

Useful ContactsDirectory Enquiries - 118888International Directory Enquiries -118899Please visit the International Office fora list of International dialling codes.

Carmarthen CampusInternational OfficeUniversity of Wales Trinity Saint David Carmarthen SA31 3EP Wales UKTel: 00 44 1267 676601Fax: 00 44 1267 676766E-mail: internationalcc@tsd.ac.uk

Lampeter CampusInternational OfficeUniversity of Wales Trinity Saint David Lampeter SA48 7ED Wales UKTel: 00 44 1570 424711E-mail: internationallc@tsd.ac.uk

Wales International Consortiumwww.walesinternationalconsortium.com

General Advicewww.ukcisa.org.uk/www.britishcouncil.orgwww.prepareforsuccess.org.uk/ www.educationuk.org/UK/Life-in-the-UK www.ukstudentlife.com

Governmentwww.wales.gov.uk http://ukinusa.fco.gov.uk/en/www.carmarthenshire.gov.ukwww.ceredigion.gov.ukwww.pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Healthwww.whatshouldido.com/ www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.uk/

Tourist & Travelwww.tourlink.co.uk www.pembrokeshire-online.co.uk www.gobycoach.com www.nationalrail.co.uk www.easyjet.com

www.bmibaby.co.uk www.yha.org.uk www.ukguide.orgwww.visitbritain.com

Newswww.bbc.co.uk/wales www.icwales.co.uk

Taxi CompaniesCarmarthenChris Cars - 01267 234438 Steve's Taxis - 01267 233846

Lampeter Robs Taxis - 01570 423889Cothi Taxis - 01558 650336

Public TransportGeneral enquiries - Traveline Cymru Tel: 0871 2002233 www.traveline-cymru.info

Coach - National Express Tel: 08705 808080 www.nationalexpress.com

Rail - Tel: 08457 484950www.nationalrail.co.ukThere is a mainline railway station inCarmarthen.

Distance from Trinity Saint David(Approx miles)Heathrow GatwickBristolCardiff

Useful Information

Trinity Saint David Carmarthen campus is within walking distance of the bus and trains stations.However, it is advised that new visitors and students take a taxi to campus. Trinity Saint DavidLampeter campus is within walking distance of a bus station. Lampeter town does not have atrain station. The closest train stations to Lampeter are Aberystwyth or Carmarthen.

Travelling to Carmarthen From the east (London, Bristol, Cardiff ): Take the M4westbound until Junction 49 Pont Abraham Services(end of motorway). Take the first exit on theroundabout for A48 Carmarthen (dual carriageway).This road will take you into Carmarthen. At Pensarnroundabout at the end of the A48, take the 2nd exitover Lesneven Bridge. At the next roundabout take the1st exit for A40 St Clears/ Haverfordwest. Proceed for600 yds under a flyover then immediately take the sliproad on your left for Johnstown (this turning will takeyou onto the flyover). At the junction on the flyoverturn left. At the next set of traffic lights take the secondexit for Jobswell Road (an immediate left after passingthe Friends Arms). Continue up the hill and around thebend at the top and take the second entrance on yourright.

Travelling to Lampeter Lampeter is in the heart of Wales, about 4 hours 30minutes by road from London or Manchester. The nearest internationalairports are Cardiff and Birmingham. Rail services come as far asAberystwyth to the north, and Carmarthen to the south. There are alsoTrawsCambria coach links from Cardiff and Swansea in the south, andHolyhead in the north with local buses connecting to Lampeter. TheUniversity is situated in the centre of Lampeter on the A485 (coming

from the Southwe aretowards

Our locations

LAMPETER

CARMARTHEN

www.tsd.ac.uk | 27

Tregaron).

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University of Wales Trinity Saint David