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.

Six Senses Vana Q&A with Ampersand Founder James

Six Senses Vana Q&A with Ampersand Founder James

Our Founder James has just returned from his latest stint at Vana, marking his first experience under the new stewardship of Six Senses which started in January 2023. Here, he shares his candid thoughts and observations, answering those burning questions that seem to pop up time and again.

8 Eco Hotels in Asia Doing Things Differently

8 Eco Hotels in Asia Doing Things Differently

On Earth Day - a dedicated day to raise awareness for the environmental action needed to protect our planet - we wanted to highlight some of our favourite properties across Asia that go above and beyond to combine luxury experiences with sustainability.

A Two Week Gourmet South Africa Itinerary

A Two Week Gourmet South Africa Itinerary

One of the best ways to get to know South Africa is by sampling its local specialities and remarkable wines as you meander through its stunning landscapes and vineyard-clad hills. Keep reading for our top recommendations across the country.

Honeymoons in Asia from the groom’s perspective!

Honeymoons in Asia from the groom’s perspective!

Our Founder James shares his ultimate game plan for impressing your future wife post-wedding: a honeymoon so epic, it'll have her recounting the tales to friends, family, and basically anyone who'll listen, for years to come. And how, you ask, do you achieve such a feat? Simple: by letting the wizards at Ampersand craft this once-in-a-lifetime voyage for you.

Ampersand Travel’s North India City Guide

Ampersand Travel’s North India City Guide

Colourful and captivating, North India is a region equally rich in history, culture and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in exploring its vibrant cities, visiting spiritual sites or trekking in the Himalayan foothills, there's something for every type of traveller. Below we’ve shared a city guide to help you make the most of your journey through North India…

Our 5 Favourite Villas in Sri Lanka

Our 5 Favourite Villas in Sri Lanka

Planning your next Sri Lanka villa holiday with a group of friends or family? We have access to some of the most beautiful villas in the country all with their own private chefs, butlers and housekeepers. In this blog, we share five of our favourite villas and the reasons we love them.

Two Weeks in Sri Lanka with Ampersand Travel

Two Weeks in Sri Lanka with Ampersand Travel

Our Senior Consultant Emily recently returned from an incredible couple of weeks researching new and existing client experiences in Sri Lanka. From exploring ancient cities and temples across the length and breadth of the country to an elephant safari, hiking up Sigiriya Rock and beach hopping between Tangalle and Bentota, this truly was the trip of a lifetime.

Top 5 Most Interesting Cities in Asia and Where to Stay

Top 5 Most Interesting Cities in Asia and Where to Stay

From Bangkok to Delhi, Tokyo to Shanghai, Asia has some incredibly exciting and eclectic cities that offer a blend of history, culture and unique experiences.

Japan Through The Seasons: When to Travel for Cherry Blossom and Autumn Leaves

Japan Through The Seasons: When to Travel for Cherry Blossom and Autumn Leaves

Like the UK, Japan has four distinct seasons, each offering its own natural beauty and unique experiences. From the cherry blossoms of spring and the lush greenery of summer, to the red autumn leaves and the snowy winter landscapes, you can experience immense natural beauty all year round.

Best Luxury Spas & Wellness Retreats in India & Sri Lanka

Best Luxury Spas & Wellness Retreats in India & Sri Lanka

Whether you’re looking for some solo downtime, a girly getaway or quality time together as a couple, India and Sri Lanka offer some of the best spa hotels and wellness retreats catering to mind, body and soul. From ancient healing traditions in the Himalayas to modern wellness therapies on the Sri Lankan coast, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of our favourite wellness escapes across India and Sri Lanka.


Client Testimonials

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
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
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
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
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
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

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