[Edit]

For 715 years, from 1278 to 1993, Andorrans lived under a unique co-principality, ruled by the French chief of state and the Spanish bishop of Urgel. In 1993, this feudal system was modified with the titular heads of state retained, but the government transformed into a parliamentary democracy. Long isolated and impoverished, mountainous Andorra achieved considerable prosperity since World War II through its tourist industry. Many immigrants (legal and illegal) are attracted to the thriving economy with its lack of income taxes.
Andorra's shopping is known all over the world. Everything is prepared to give the customer the leading role. The privileged tax system allows very competitive prices. In the Principality you will also find Caldea, the largest fun spa centre in the south of Europe, a water palace situated at an altitude of 1000 m, with an architecture and amenities which make it a unique building.
Until the 1950s, Andorra's population hovered around 6000. Today, only about a quarter of the population - almost two-thirds of whom live in Andorra la Vella and its suburbs - are Andorran nationals. The rest are mainly Spanish, French and Portuguese.

Andorran cuisine is mainly Catalan, with strong French and Italian influences. Sauces are typically served with meat and fish. Pasta is also common. Local dishes include cunillo (rabbit cooked in tomato sauce), xai (roast lamb), trinxat (bacon, potatoes and cabbage) and escudella (a stew of chicken, sausage and meatballs).
Events
Many Andorran towns and hamlets celebrate their heritage with a village festival, when locals gather to enjoy music, dancing, wine and feasts. Nearly all of these fall between July and September. Andorra la Vella's three day festival period begins on the first Saturday in August. Mare de Deu de Meritxell, the national festival of the Virgin Mary, is celebrated on 8 September with a pilgrimage to Meritxell, 7km (4mi) northeast of Andorra la Vella.
Last edited by Gary (6:01, 01 July 2006)
Have the use of a car
<%/loop%>
Add Your Tip
by Dogblocker on 14 April 2006
Have the use of a car, Or better still for Summer, A motorcycle. Avoid Andorra la Vella. Hard to Park with narrow busy streets.
Lac De Pessions Hike (From Crau Rouig Ski Station off of the main road between Soldeu and the France Border) Steepish climb to seven ascending lakes. Views are the best I have seen anywhere!