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Hoshinoya Taketomi
Yaeyama Islands

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Hoshinoya Taketomi is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Beach Hotels.

Hoshinoya, a luxury hotel group with a distinctive approach of modernising traditional properties in a Japanese way have excelled themselves with their new serene resort on the tiny jewel of Taketomi island. Located in tropical Okinawa, Taketomi is a tiny hidden slice of paradise with azure skies and water, home to colourful coral reefs and sea life.

Secluded and luxurious private villas with gardens have been built in keeping with the stone walls and red tile roofs of the houses in the local village. Choose between Zuki (Triple Villa, ideal for families), Gajoni (Double Villa, suited to couples) and Kyangi (Twin Villa with Japanese Room, perfect for those wanting a more traditional Okinawan experience). All are beautifully designed with authentic and elegant interiors, complete with tatami mat floors, paper sliding doors, and vast floor to ceiling windows. Not only does natural light flood through these, but they also frame views of the villas’ private verandas outside with their tropical plants.

The elliptical-shaped swimming pool and restaurant area both lie at the centre of the resort, making Hoshinoya Taketomi a very convenient spot in which to relax and refuel. If one is in need of deeper relaxation, massage treatments are available at the hotel’s tranquil and luxurious spa. In terms of dining, the cuisine created and served here is of fine quality – especially as most of it is unique to Okinawa. Fresh seafood and exotic vegetables are the main delicacies that you may be tempted by here, as well as the French-inspired food by chef Tatsuo Nakasu. Or, for private dining, you may book a barbecue experience and be served in your very own villa’s garden.

The unspoiled island is so small that the white sand beaches with gin clear waters are only a stroll away. Or, take the authentic ox-drawn carts that provide the only local transport on the island to speed up this short journey. Hoshinoya Taketomi is a brilliant choice for families as it provides provides cultural experiences and activities - ranging from snorkelling, diving, canyoning and weaving workshops – plus, the larger island of Ishigaki with its busier beaches and water sports is a short ferry ride away.

All in all, Hoshinoya Taketomi is a perfect place to stay for those that value a complete getaway in a tropical paradise, that comes with a slow pace of life and romantic seclusion.

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When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.
Susan Heller

Client Testimonials

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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
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
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

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