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Emily Gillman

General Manager

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From a young age, Emily has been immersed in travel, her parents placing great value on experiencing new cultures, landscapes, wildlife - and the occasional stylish hotel. An explorer at heart, she’s happiest when venturing into the unknown, following maps through unfamiliar cities, sampling street food and connecting with people from all walks of life.

Before entering the luxury travel industry, Emily began as a do-it-yourself backpacker, with her first major trip taking her to Borneo to see the orangutans. That journey sparked a lasting curiosity, which led to a transformative five-month expedition across Southeast Asia, and the moment she decided to turn her love of travel into a career. Since joining Ampersand in 2016 she has developed a deep, first-hand understanding of both Asia and Africa, having travelled extensively through each region. Her itineraries are carefully curated to include not just headline highlights, but hidden gems and genuine local insight.

Of all the places she’s visited, Indonesia continues to capture her imagination. From dramatic volcanoes and ancient temples to remote islands steeped in ancestral traditions and spirituality, she finds its depth and diversity endlessly inspiring. South Africa also holds a special place in her heart - she lived in Cape Town for six months in 2022, falling for its wild beauty, fine wines, staggering landscapes and the warmth of its people. For Emily, it remains one of the most captivating destinations on Earth.

Emily's Favourites

DESTINATION

INDONESIA

In the globe’s Southeast Asia, Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago with more than 17,000 islands, and so it can be a mine-field when choosing where to visit on a holiday to Indonesia. A tailor-made Indonesia holiday will ensure you are visiting the spots that are best suited to your needs. There is much to choose from: sleek retreats surrounded by rice...

HOTELS

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Emily's favourites include the show-stopping Amanjiwo, and the exclusive and super-luxe Nihi Sumba Island...

AmanjiwoView here
NIHI SumbaView here
Mandapa, A Ritz-Carlton ReserveView here
Bambu IndahView here
AmankilaView here

ITINERARY

AUTHENTIC INDONESIA

20 days from £11,990 for 2025

Experience the real Indonesia; scale volcanoes, explore ancient sites, dive coral reefs, immerse in the rich Hindu culture, soak up...


View here

Emily's Photo Album

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Client Testimonials

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, 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
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
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
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
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North 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
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
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
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
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 barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
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

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