Lifestyle

From Taj Mahal to Roman Baths: The Desi Handbook to Uni Life in Bath

By ResLifeNeel 14 Aug 2023

Namaste (greetings), fellow curry enthusiasts and chai-tea latte connoisseurs! Here’s a peek into my escapade as an Indian student at the University of Bath.

As I stepped off the plane on September 24, 2022, with a heart full of excitement and a suitcase stuffed with dreams, I knew my adventure was about to kick into high gear. The air was crisp with the promise of new beginnings as I made my way to the vibrant city of Bath. Little did I know that the next few days would be a rollercoaster of fun, friendships, and unforgettable moments.

Imagine a place where learning meets laughter, and your dorm mates become your partners in crime and academic shenanigans. That's Aquila Court – the privately managed off-campus accommodation for MSc, MBA, and PhD mavens like me; a delightful melange of cultures, personalities, and dreams, just a hop, skip, and a jump from the University. The cherry on top? Support galore! With the CRM team co-piloting the accommodation along with the University, I felt at ease. From helping me find my way around the city and campus, to introducing me to other students, they were like friendly guardians, always ready with a smile and a helpful hand.

Coming onto the university, Freshers' Week was an explosion of colours, laughter, and camaraderie. The campus was buzzing with activity, and I couldn't help but marvel at the incredible diversity around me. It was like a mini United Nations, with students from every corner of the globe converging (read: partying) to start this incredible journey together.

As the week unfolded, I found myself making connections faster than I could say chai (tea). Bonding over food, debating the best movies, and sharing snippets of our diverse cultures – it was like paradise right here in Bath.

Every corner of the city had a story to tell. From exploring the historic Roman Baths to indulging in scenic walks along the Avon River, every moment was a snapshot of enchantment. And let's not forget the British weather – a game of 'guess the rain' became a hilarious pastime.

Now, you might be wondering, what should you pack and get ready for this adventure at the University of Bath? Fear not, for I've got the inside scoop on the must-haves that'll make your journey even more magical:

As a Desi (Indian) daredevil, packing for university was an art form. Here's my essential checklist:

Spice Ensemble: A survival kit of masalas (spices) to transform bland dishes into aromatic feasts. Perfecto and Uvin are two stores here that have some as well if you need more. Warning: May lead to unexpected food envy.

Indienne Couture: Mixing Desi fashion with British trends is my jam. Kurtas and trench coats, anyone? Look out for good winter-wear deals at M&S and Primark. Don’t forget to pack some traditional outfits for those Garba nights and Diwali parties.

PhD in Snacking: A stash of Indian snacks – the secret weapon for midnight study sessions or surprise roommate bonding sessions. The Indian aisle at Sainsbury's and Morrisons in the city and the Fresh on-campus have got your back in case you find yourself craving for more.

Multilingual Toolkit: An online dictionary app to bridge the "Lost in Translation" moments and ensure our punchlines land perfectly.

Bollywood Beats: Portable speakers for spontaneous dance-offs, because them Naatu-Naatu vibes are contagious! PS. Watch out for some immaculate Bollywood parties here at the night club, Second Bridge.

Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty – those essentials that make you feel at ghar (home):

Kitchen Supplies: Unleashing your inner chef with basic utensils, cookware, and the magic touch to whip up your delights.

Bed & Bath Bliss: Decking out your space with cozy bedding and fluffy towels – because every adventurer deserves a pampered den.

Tech Arsenal: Equipping your laptop, charger, and trusty gadgets for academic and entertainment wizardry. Netflix marathons, here I come!

Banking & Finance Fun: Mastering the art of currency conversion and Forex cards – because being Indian includes being financially savvy.

Health & Wellness Wonders: Conquering the unknown with a first aid kit, prescription medications, and a dash of your dadi’s (grandma's) health wisdom.

With this checklist in your backpack, consider yourself armed and ready for an exciting escapade right in the heart of Bath.

As I sit down to close this chapter in my diary, a warm smile effortlessly spreads across my face. So, my fellow Brown Munde (brown guys), whether you're chasing pretty sunsets, deadlines, mastering the art of cooking, or simply savouring the moments, remember that this chapter is all yours to write. Here's to friendships, academic triumphs, and drunk nights that'll have you laughing all the way to your degree, cheers!

Learn more about postgraduate accommodation here.