Destination:
Andorra

Overview

Andorra is a tiny dot on the map; an independent Principality dwarfed by France and Spain, most famous for being a tax haven and a popular tourist destination peppered with summer and winter resorts.

Following centuries of struggle between the counts and the bishops of Urgell for the surrounding valleys, Andorra came into being in 1278, when the Spanish bishop of La Seu d'Urgell, and the French House of Foix established co-sovereignty of the area. The French and Spanish continued to tussle over the region and it was only in 1993 that it officially became an independent state, obtaining its first written constitution. With this mixed history, it is no surprise that true Andorrans are a minority in their own country; Spaniards, French and Portuguese make up the majority of the population.

The country occupies 181 square miles (468 sq km) and is mountainous and beautiful, dotted with lakes, forests, and three major rivers. The typical flora and fauna of the Pyrenees region dominates the scenery. Its principal and most populated town is Andorra la Vella with several museums and monuments to explore, including a Miniature Museum, a Perfume museum and an Ethnographic museum. The principal reason, however, for visits to Andorra is for the excellent skiing. The country boasts several major ski resorts, including Grandvalira (formerly called Soldeu/El Tartar) and Vall Nord (formerly Arcalis/Ordino), which cater for all types of skiers.

If skiing is not for you, however, Andorra also offers plenty of hiking opportunities, horse riding, golfing, relaxing in some fine restaurants and cafes, and of course some excellent duty-free shopping.

Basics

Time
GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).

Electricity
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round pin attachment plugs and Shuko plugs and receptacles with side grounding contacts are in use.

Language
The official language of Andorra is Catalan (used in administration and business). More than half the population speaks Spanish, and French and Portuguese are also spoken.

Health
There are no health risks associated with travel to Andorra, but it is recommended that travellers are up to date with routine immunisations. Medical care in Andorra and neighbouring Spain and France is excellent, but can be expensive and medical insurance is advised.

Tipping
A 10% service charge is usually included on restaurant bills in Andorra and anything extra is for exceptional service.

Safety
There are no risks associated with travel to Andorra, but travellers should always be vigilant and not display valuables.

Customs
Andorrans tend to be friendly and courteous. Smoking is common, although restrictions have been placed in neighbouring Spain.

Business
Catalan is the official language of Andorra, although Spanish is widely spoken. A small minority speak French and English is minimal. It is best to ascertain before meetings which language will be used. Punctuality is important, handshakes are the norm on greeting, and business attire should be smart and formal.

Communications
The international access code for Andorra is +376. The outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are not in use. Andorra is well covered by a GSM 900 network and most international mobile companies offer roaming agreements. Internet cafes are widely available.

Duty Free
Andorra is a duty free zone and therefore there are no restrictions. However, regulations of either France or Spain must be adhered to when leaving from either of those countries.

Currency

The unit of currency in Andorra is the Euro, divided into 100 cents. Currency can be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change and to avoid additional charges it is best to have travellers cheques in Euros. Most major credit cards are accepted, including Eurocheque cards and ATMs are widely available in Andorra La Vella.

EUR 1 =

US$ 1.27

£ 0.83

C$ 1.29

A$ 1.23

R 10.70

EUR 1.00

NZ$ 1.60

Note: These currency exchange rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

Health

Health Overview
There are no health risks associated with travel to Andorra, but it is recommended that travellers are up to date with routine immunisations. Medical care in Andorra and neighbouring Spain and France is excellent, but can be expensive and medical insurance is advised.

Visa

Americans


UK nationals


Canadians


Australians


South Africans


Irish nationals


New Zealanders

Passport/Visa Note
Although there are no visa requirements for Andorra, travellers must have the relevant documentation for either France or Spain, depending on which country will be transited to reach Andorra, and should apply to the relevant embassy in their home country. Visitors must also hold onward tickets, all other documents required for next destination and sufficient funds.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

Contacts

Andorra Tourism
Ministry of Tourism and Environment: +376 875 702 or www.andorra.ad

Foreign Embassies in Andorra

Andorra Embassies

Regions and Cities

Grandvalira

The ski region of Grandvalira is Andorra's largest, composed of over 120 miles (190km) of runs linking six villages - Pas de la Casa, Grau Roig, Soldeu, El Tarter, Canillo and Encamp. The elevation of the longest runs is 3,000ft (930m) vertical with a generous altitude of 8,660ft (2,640m). The most central village is Soldeu, popular with families and those attending the excellent ski schools. Nearby Pas de la Casa appeals more to youngsters enjoying the lively après ski scene. Grandvalira offers some of the finest beginner and intermediate slopes in the world, as well as some exciting black runs for more experienced skiers to let loose. The new Adventure Activity Centre has made a range of other activities accessible, such as snow-mobiling, dog-sledding, ski bikes, and tubing. Of course the main attraction remains the skiing, and with first-class ski schools, modern and efficient lift systems and reliable snow, this is the perfect choice for a ski holiday for beginners and intermediates.