Introduction
Andorra is officially named Principality of Andorra, it has the highest life expectancy of 85 years and is considered a tax haven, this results in competitive shopping prices. Tourism accounts for around 80% of GDP in Andorra therefore the small city is moulded around the framework of accomidating visitors. Two of the main activities that have to be done whilst here are skiing and shopping (though not at the same time) Its official language is Catalan and is located between France and Spain.

Whats about
For your Andorra trip if you head towards the northwest of Madrid you can find some terrific skiing spots, Arinsal is the place to be to gain your confidence on the slopes to prepare for the drops you want to conquer! Also the combination of skiing slopes can be relished with over 285kms of runs with Grandvalira and Vallnord. After all of that why not go the extra mile (not on the slopes) but with treating yourself to some retail therapy in one of the 2000 plus shops avoiding the wallet busting prices.

Tax Free?!
Yes thats right, on your Andorra trip you will enjoy the luxury of avoiding that meddling tax making your retail therapy a difficult. It seems to have the main focus on luxurious items which isnt a con though you will certainly find a lot of perfumes, tobacco and alcohol, your usual duty free mission. Though you shall also find yourself a bargain at the top of Pic Negre for your skiing gear with up to 40% off to what you would pay in the UK. Also worth noting to be aware of your limits, you'll most likely be checked when going through customs on either Spanish or French borders so don´t end the trip in tears.

Museums
If you want to save a bit of energy or maybe skiing isnt your thing, no problem there are still several interesting venues to check out in Andorra. A good example of this is the Viladomat museum, named after (you guessed it) Josep Viladomat born in 1899 with over a 140 pieces of his displayed permanently. The Sanctuary of Meritxell was originally a chapel dedicated to Santa Maria which had a rocky past to say the least was eventually rebuilt in 1994 which includes the new carving of the Virgin of Meritxell that was lost in the fire of 1972. Not only that but has some facinating Islamic influences.