Why Travel With Ampersand?

At Ampersand we strongly believe that planning a holiday should be exciting, not cumbersome or stressful. Whether you're looking to organise a big family reunion or you simply need to get away for some winter sun, we’re here to help every step of the way - before, during, and after your trip. And because everything we do is completely tailor-made, you can rest assured that you'll never have to compromise. Instead, every individual detail and desire will be taken into account in order to curate the perfect trip.

Keep reading to see what sets Ampersand Travel apart from other travel companies:

The human touch

Ampersand Travel is founder owned and run, with James Jayasundera playing a hands-on role in curating and overseeing trips. This allows decisions to be made quickly and itineraries to be tailored with precision. James’s multicultural and global upbringing and extensive travels have given him unmatched exposure to the world’s most important natural, cultural, and historic sites, along with a strong understanding of what makes an experience truly meaningful. His ability to connect dots across multiple countries and cultures, combined with his knack for finding beauty and charm in everything—from the humble to the regal—makes his itineraries enriching and unique.

Luxury is in the experience

Ampersand Travel’s motto, “Luxury is in the Experience,” reflects our belief that the richness of travel lies in both the grand and the deeply personal moments. With 50 years of travel expertise, James has developed an incredible network of connections to royalty, artisans and visionaries. While introductions to these luminaries are certainly a highlight, they are just one facet of what we offer. Our journeys weave these exclusive encounters into a broader narrative, balancing immersive cultural experiences, authentic local interactions, and a deep understanding of our clients’ needs and dreams.

Tried and tested

When you travel with Ampersand, you’re working with a team of seasoned travel experts who’ve already done the groundwork. We’ve tested those “must-see” experiences and new hotel openings, uncovered hidden gems you won’t find on Google, and secured exclusive access to places off the beaten track. With over 20 years of experience crafting bespoke holidays to Asia and Southern Africa, we’ve travelled the length and breadth of all of our destinations, trying everything out along the way - good and bad - so that you don't have to. Our team regularly revisits everything we offer, ensuring that every moment of each itinerary is as close to perfection as possible (and up to date) to make the most of your time away.

Tailored for you

At Ampersand Travel, we take the time to understand our clients, carefully matching them with the perfect mix of experiences and accommodations to suit their unique needs and interests. Because every traveller is different, we design each journey from scratch - there are no pre-packaged options here. Every trip begins with a blank slate and an in-depth conversation and from that point on, every detail is tailored exclusively for you, creating a travel experience that’s truly one of a kind.

Compassion

Clients choose Ampersand because we combine exclusive access, nuanced cultural immersion, and the confidence to gently push boundaries with creativity and compassion. Whether it’s fulfilling a last wish, creating once-in-a-lifetime moments, or navigating complex logistics, our hands-on approach ensures that every journey is unique. By weaving together charm, novelty, and sophistication, we create travel experiences that are as unforgettable and life-affirming.

For example, one of the most moving trips we have ever arranged was for a terminally ill client whose dying wish was to visit Sri Lanka one last time. Many companies would have been too risk-averse to take on such a request, but we embraced the opportunity to make her dream come true and carefully planned a journey that allowed her to enjoy the beauty of the country with her husband.

Friends in faraway places

Our guides are the key to unlocking the heart and soul of a destination. We work with a trusted network of local experts, carefully vetted for their knowledge, professionalism, and ability to connect with our clients. Many have worked with us for years and understand our ethos and the high standards our clients expect. Our founder James has personally met most of them.

Before each trip, guides are fully briefed on the client’s interests and preferences, ensuring a tailored experience. They bring destinations to life, whether as scholars interpreting ancient temples, art historians uncovering hidden stories, or naturalists pointing out rare wildlife. Our guides’ expertise, passion, and adaptability transform journeys from excellent to extraordinary, providing clients with unique insights and unforgettable experiences.

Ready to start planning your dream luxury holiday for 2025? We’d love to tell you more about our destinations and offerings across Asia and Southern Africa. Please get in touch with our team of destination experts: info@ampersandtravel.com