Ampersand's Travels...

Welcome to Ampersand's travel blog. This is where you'll find out all the latest goings on from our travels across Asia, the Far East, and Southern Africa.

Our motto is that luxury is in the experience: watching tigers padding through the Kanha jungle in the company of an expert guide; camping out under the Ladakh stars wrapped in cashmere blankets; exploring the art galleries and fine dining restaurants in Cape Town... these are the things we adore.

All over Asia and Southern Africa – from Bhutan to Bali, Cape Town to Victoria Falls – we know the most charming privately-owned hotels, the best secret beaches, the prettiest temples, and the most exclusive safari trails in the untouched wilderness. Our Little Black Book contains the best textile buffs, the keenest foodies, the wittiest maharajas, the most expert guides and the loveliest spots to drink champagne in the moonlight.

But what we love most of all is revealing these treasures to our clients. In our blog we hope to inspire and inform you by providing the latest travel news, hotel openings and luxury holiday ideas across Asia, the Far East, and Southern Africa.

Newly Opened ‘Japan House’ in Kensington – A Slice of Tokyo in London

Newly Opened ‘Japan House’ in Kensington – A Slice of Tokyo in London

Much to our delight, Japan House opened its gleaming doors to the public this weekend (23rd – 24th June 2018). We’ve been avidly awaiting this welcome addition to Kensington High Street and it has far

Japan's Wild North: James' Winter in Hokkaido

Japan's Wild North: James' Winter in Hokkaido

Last February, I visited Hokkaidō – the northernmost, least developed part of Japan –  with the Japan National Tourism Organization and JTB. This incredible trip covered the remote eastern corner of

Top 10 favourite Japanese Food Experiences

Top 10 favourite Japanese Food Experiences

Japanese cuisine is renowned for being one of the best in the world, for good reason as it really is one – of the many – perfect creations in Japan! Food is an integral part of the country’s culture... read on to find out our favourites

Revisiting Japan: Our top 20 highlights

Revisiting Japan: Our top 20 highlights

After moving back home to England after studying in Tokyo for a year, I was longing to go back to immerse myself in Japan’s incredible culture, scenery and food.

Where to travel in 2018 based on your Zodiac Sign

Where to travel in 2018 based on your Zodiac Sign

Happy New Year! A new year, a new you and a whole new 12 months to travel and explore some of the world’s most exciting destinations. But what to choose, and where to begin? At Ampersand Travel we

15 Dream Honeymoon Spots in Asia (Romance Guaranteed...!)

15 Dream Honeymoon Spots in Asia (Romance Guaranteed...!)

Asia has an abundance of heart-stirring destinations and extraordinary experiences. From swimming in the gin-clear waters of Indonesia to discovering the majestic forts and palaces of Rajasthan, we have picked out the most dazzlingly romantic travel ideas for you and your loved one…

Best time to visit Japan?

Best time to visit Japan?

A highlight of the Japanese calendar is cherry blossom season which sweeps north from the southern part of Japan in late March. Come April the cherry blossom trees are reaching full bloom and despite

Do like the Japanese do… in a traditional Ryokan spa retreat

Do like the Japanese do… in a traditional Ryokan spa retreat

Ampersand adores ryokans. Literally translated as ‘traveller’s inn’, these havens of relaxation offer so much more than a place to rest one’s head. Sumptuous 'kaiseki', hot spring 'onsen' baths, manicured gardens and more...

10 Japanese Cultural Concepts

10 Japanese Cultural Concepts

Japanese culture is complex and distinctive. Often visualised as an anthill society, buzzing with the advancements of technology and a population boom. However, many traditional values of Japan still underpin the culture, with a profound appreciation of nature and the simple life. Here are 10 concepts which are at the core of Japanese culture…

Everything You Need to Know about Visiting The Imperial Palace in Tokyo

Everything You Need to Know about Visiting The Imperial Palace in Tokyo

The Tokyo Imperial Palace is the primary residence of the Emperor of Japan. Located in the heart of the pulsating city, this haven proves to be the highly valuable privacy the Japanese royal family crave. In this mini-guide to visiting the Imperial Palace, you will learn about the best times to visit and more…


Client Testimonials

I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences