Almost hidden on the border between France and Spain, the tiny principality of Andorra is a land of narrow valleys and mountainous landscapes.
The mainstay of the economy is tourism
Full name: The Principality of Andorra
Population: 64,000 (UN, 2003)
Capital: Andorra la Vella
Major languages: Catalan, Spanish, French
Major religion: Christianity
Life expectancy: 81 years (men), 87 years (women)
Monetary unit: 1 euro = 100 cents
Main exports: Leather goods
GNI per capita: n/a
Internet domain: .ad
International dialling code: +376
Tradition holds that Charles the Great (Charlemagne) granted a charter to Andorran people in return for their fighting the Moors. Overlordship of the territory passed to the local count of Urgell and eventually to the bishop of the diocese of Urgell. In the eleventh century a dispute arose between the bishop and his northern neighbour over Andorra.
The conflict was resolved in 1278 by the signing of a paréage, which provided that Andorra’s sovereignty be shared between the count of Foix (whose title would ultimately transfer to the French head of state) and the bishop of La Seu d’Urgell, in Catalonia, Spain. This gave the small principality its territory and political form.
An estimated 10 million people visit each year, drawn by the winter sports, summer climate and duty-free goods.
Andorra is surrouded by foreign territory.
Tourism is booming in this small part of the world with its ski resorts and tax haven status.
The people of Andorra are currently listed as having the highest human life expectancies on Earth at an average of 83.52 years.
There are no trains in Andorra, but instead a bus route to link it with France. Visit the Andorra bus website for timetable and fares. http://www.andorrabus.com.To travel by train to Andorra you should use French trains. To book
London to Andorra La Vella
With no airport Andorra train travel to to l’Hospitalet près l’Andorre just outside Andorra from Paris is the way to go. Then catch the bus to Pas de la Casa, Soldeu, Encamp, or Andorra La Veilla, Look forward to a really impressive and grand view over the Pas de la Casa. No need to book the bus. Arrive and get on. No problem
London to Andorra. Travel from London to Paris by Eurostar from St Pancras to Paris (Gare du Nord) Cross by métro to the Gare d’Austerlitz.
Then travel from Paris to l’Hospitalet près l’Andorra overnight by sleeper train which has 1st class 4 berth couchettes, 2nd class 6 berth couchettes and 2nd class reclining seats.
About the Author
Publishing pro and established author/filmmaker Barry Sheppard has written and published many books with hundreds of reviews in newspapers, TV and radio and has written over 140 articles on train travel. He is now concentrating on writing eBooks/articles on writing, video, publishing and starting his own television station.
He also runs the website http://www.traintraveller.com
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