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Gardening Leave? Leave it to the green-fingered experts


A few weeks holiday a year is great (blissful, in fact!) for the majority of us. Moreover, it is usually all we can justify in terms of money, time off work or simply away from normal life. But there are times in life when a “holiday” isn’t enough; times when we want to “travel”... for a long time.

This can happen at any point, but generally it is before university – i.e. a Gap Year – or once you've entered retirement after 40-odd years of work. But there are a growing number of us who are realising the benefits of taking a sabbatical – and that includes employers, too, many of whom are savvy enough to realise their experience-hungry employee will return to work with plenty more to add to the table.

There is also that other marvellous thing: gardening leave. This is when an employee leaves their job (through choice or otherwise) and has a notice period where they are instructed to stay away from work whilst still getting paid. What on earth will you do with all that time and money, you ask yourself! Take the time to travel to beautiful, enlightening places, of course. Yes, gardening leave has ripe potential to turn into "the holiday of a lifetime".

If there is ever a time to turn to the travel experts, it is during these occasions in life when you have more time, money and expectations. And if it is the Indian Subcontinent and/or Southeast Asia you want to explore, nobody knows or loves it like we do. Our staff will tailor-make your itinerary to ensure you get exactly what you what from every moment of your one-, two-, three-, or even six-month adventure.

Whether you want a cultural, soul-searching journey or utter pampering in the height of luxury (or a mix of both), we will make it happen seamlessly. We will offer inspiration and advice on where to go and what to expect; we will open our little black book of contacts to ensure you are with the best people on the ground; and we will provide the security of knowing that we are at the end of the phone should you ever need us.

If you are one of the lucky ones who fall into any of the categories mentioned, call us on 020 7289 6100 or email info@ampersandtravel.com to start planning your holiday of a lifetime.



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 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
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 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
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
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
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

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