ANDORRA
Life in Andorra
Andorra is a unique country that does things a little bit differently than everyone else.
Find out what to expect.
Breathtaking Scenery and Mild Climate
Nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains, between France and Spain, this mostly undiscovered country is very mountainous and only 6% of its territory is actually urbanized. This makes for a striking show of nature that will never leave you, even when you are standing in the most urban spot of the capital.
This hidden gem hides more than just unforgettable landscapes though. Its temperate climate has four distinct yet mild seasons, over 300 days of sun a year, and temperatures in urbanized areas mostly range from -5 to 30 degrees Celsius depending on the season. You will not have a chance to tire of the snow, or the summer heat, as soon enough you will easily and beautifully transition into another season, just as stunningly displayed as the previous one.
Low tax + Low Crime + Top Wellness = Peace of Mind
Due to its small size and having been an independent country not involved in wars for over 700 years, Andorra can afford to do things a little differently.
Taxes are low, with a maximum of 10% on both Corporate and Personal Income. Although after deductions this usually comes down to a more realistic 6-8%. An established, modern democracy in the heart of Europe, Andorra has also been consistently ranking amongst the top 10 safest countries in the world, where crime is extremely low. Add to this excellent and competitive healthcare, either public or private, and you are in for an unusually high, yet affordable, quality of life.
The Principality also encourages a great focus on Wellness and Sports. From Skiing and Snowboarding in Winter, to Cycling, Hiking, Climbing or just enjoying a nice stroll outdoors the rest of the year, Andorra makes a point of making Nature accessible to be enjoyed by all. Sports Complex and Gyms are also located all around the country and they are stocked with full equipment for cardio, weights, spa, and solariums and swimming pools in most cases.
With this track record, and offering the perfect environment to improves on one’s performance and endurance, it doesn’t come as a surprise that many Professional Athletes have chosen Andorra as their main home.
Business Scene: Fast Internet, Tech Hub, and Global Presence
Another of the main focus for Andorra is to provide a nurturing environment for start-ups, particularly in the Technology, Financial, and Sports & Wellness Fields.
The country boasts one of the top five fastest Internet Connections in the World and has quickly become a destination of much interest for those entrepreneurs who can work online and service their clients globally from any spot in the world.
Naturally, the superior yet affordable quality of life and the stunning scenery has made Andorra a favorite, turning the country into a Technology Hub which attracts extremely talented people from around the globe. This has led to a unique situation, unparalleled in the world, where the ratio of expats to locals is amongst the top worldwide, with up to 70% of total residents being non Andorrans.
This situation also makes for a bustling social life, with never ending opportunity to mingle with interesting characters from all over, and a very enriching, international scene for those who are looking to make friends.
Multilingual Education, Rich Cultural Heritage, and easy Access to all of Europe
With its unusual location, right at the border and fully enveloped by France and Spain, and its own local history as well, Andorra has long embraced its multicultural identity.
All children in Andorra speak Catalan, the local language, Spanish and French, and in the past few decades, English has also become a mandatory subject in school. This means that at any given time, most residents of the country will speak at least 4 languages and will be acquainted with at least 4 different cultures.
The Principality has recently invested in the neighboring airport of la Seu LSU, a 15 minute drive from the Spanish border, which allows visitors to fly directly from Andorra to Madrid, and from there, to just about anywhere in the world. Other ways of accessing the country are Helicopter and Driving by bus or private vehicle.
The main International Airports to access Andorra are those of Barcelona, BCN, and Toulouse, TLS, which are located about a 3 hour drive from the country. Both have shuttles that will drive you to and from Andorra on a daily basis.
Throughout the years of intermingling with multiple cultures, adapting to modern times, and welcoming international influence and cuisines, Andorra has also managed to keep their most charming traditions alive. And so, in summer especially, you will be able to enjoy the Nights of Fire, the Transhumance of their livestock, or some of the most delicious traditional dishes among other things.
