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Suggested itineraries in January
January is the time of year when people are usually bearing post-Christmas blues and ‘dry January’; it can be a dreary month to endure in the UK to say the least! But this is most certainly not the case if you head eastwards and it can be one of the best months to go on holiday. To escape the bleak British weather and for some great value holidays in the sunshine, read below of where to go on holiday in January.
For those looking for a dose of sunshine, South India is an absolutely perfect destination to visit in January; the tropical beaches of Goa and Kerala have calm warm seas which are ideal for swimming, long stretches of white-sand beaches and the sun shines for around 9 hours a day, often without a cloud in the sky. Choose between beachfront hotels such as Ahilya by the Sea or Taj Holiday Village, or a comfortable homestay such as Fort Tiracol or Philip Kutty’s Farm, an Ampersand favourite.
The far-flung Andaman Islands are ideal for the perfect island retreat, with cooling sea breezes that keep the temperature down at night. Stay at the boutique Jalakara or Taj’s newest beach property, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans for a remote island holiday and combine South India’s unique culture and ancient heritage with visits to Chennai, Mahabalipuram and Pondicherry for the ultimate South Indian adventure. The coconut-studded west coast of Sri Lanka is also at its best in January with clear, azure-blue waters ideal for swimming, surfing, snorkelling and blue whale spotting.
North India offers almost endless possibilities, where temperatures are a very comfortable 25°C. It’s the perfect time to visit the Royal Palaces of Rajasthan, the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Jaipur and the Taj Mahal in Agra, or opt for a private tour of central India’s wildlife, history and culture.
In Southeast Asia, January is an excellent month to explore the history, culture and culinary joys of Vietnam and the ancient temples of Angkor in Cambodia. Thailand is a perennial favourite for this time of year, famed for its most picture-perfect weather. The beaches of Phuket, Krabi and the surrounding islands such as Ko Phi Phi are perfect, although one should avoid the east coast beaches in January as it is the is rainy season. Bali is also a great destination for winter sun and offers stunning beaches and fascinating local culture. But head beyond Bali further into the Indonesian archipelago to the beautiful Raja Ampat for some of the world’s best diving and snorkelling.
A Family Wilderness Adventure in Kipling Country
This bespoke Indian wildlife adventure has been especially designed for families travelling with children, bringing to life Rudyard Kipling's stories.
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A Week in Laos
Explore the charming highlights of northern and southern Laos at a restful pace on this perfect seven day introductory itinerary...
View hereA Whistle-stop Tour of Vietnam
Perfect for people who want to do Vietnam in under 2 weeks. You’ll take in all the highlights, including bedding...
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Ampersand’s Signature Sri Lanka Tour
If money was no object this would be our ideal cultural tour of Sri Lanka. This in-depth tour encompasses the...
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Best of the Best in Burma... The Ultimate Luxury Tour
It is no secret that Burma is a cultural treasure trove, but for those of you who love luxury too,...
View hereBest-of-the-Best Luxury Tour of Vietnam
Vietnam’s impressive roll call of cultural, culinary and natural highlights make her one of Asia’s most enticing destinations. She is...
View hereBeyond the Sky... Uma Punakha & Uma Paro
Perfect for both family holidays and honeymoons, Bhutan remains an exclusive, romantic and adventurous destination. COMO Hotels, with the addition...
View hereBonjour Vietnam… A Fabulous Food-lover's Tour
This tour is ideal for food-lovers. Enjoy an expert-led street food tour of Hanoi, a cooking course in Hue and...
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Burma... Return to the Golden Land
With so much to see and experience, Burma is not a one-time destination. This itinerary is perfect for those looking...
View hereA Cambodian Discovery… Jungle, Beach & City
This intrepid itinerary takes in Cambodia’s highlights and lesser known attractions, from the markets and culture of Phnom Penh, to...
View hereCheeky Monkeys, Blue Whales and King Coconuts… Family Fun in Sri Lanka
This itinerary was created for families young or old who love little adventures and wildlife. It is the perfect way...
View hereClassic Island Tour of Sri Lanka
This in-depth tour encompasses all the major sites of the Cultural Triangle before taking a leisurely route through the centre...
View hereClassic Kerala Holiday... Beautiful Beaches & Balmy Backwaters in South India
A relaxed introduction to the diverse and beautiful state of Kerala, loved for her friendly charm, incredible Keralan cuisine and...
View hereClassic Tour of Vietnam & Cambodia’s Temples of Angkor
This is one of our most popular trips and constantly gets marvellous feedback from clients. It includes a very extensive...
View hereCocoa Island by COMO, Maldives
Located a 40-minute speedboat journey away from Male Airport, Cocoa Island is one of our favourite properties in the Maldives. Understated...
View hereConstance Moofushi, Maldives
Located in the South Ari Atoll, Constance Moofushi is a relaxed, fresh and stylish resort. With a wide white sandy...
View hereCultural Gems of Cambodia
This is a great trip to Cambodia for first-timers, with two essential elements: Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. Start with...
View hereDeccan Discovery... Archaeology, Ancient Temples & Train Journeys in South India
This extraordinary itinerary provides comfortable access to some of the most beautiful locations in southern India and to the Deccan,...
View hereEast to West: A Journey Through Bhutan
If you like to be a pioneer then this itinerary will take you to places few non-Bhutanese have ever seen....
View hereEssential India... Our Comprehensive Tour of North & South India
This itinerary is one of our absolute favourites. It combines the fascinating historical and natural gems of the northern regions...
View hereFour Seasons Resort Kuda Huraa
Four Seasons Kuda Huraa is a beautiful resort just a short speedboat ride from Male airport. All the guest rooms are...
View hereFrom Bhutan to India’s Andaman Islands... A Romantic Adventure from Mountain to Beach
Bhutan and the Andamans could hardly be more different, a fantastic itinerary of mountain peaks and tropical reefs…
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Gently Down The Ganges... A Slow & Spiritual Boat Journey in North India
The Ganges River has long been a draw to the Hindu faithful and foreign travellers alike. With the introduction of...
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Grand Colonial Tour of Asia: India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Vietnam & Singapore
Experience Asia's diverse colonial heritage on this whirlwind tour designed for those with an interest in colonial history and architecture.
View hereCambodia off the Beaten Track
This grand tour explores all four corners of Cambodia and gives a great insight into her culture, history and stunning...
View hereGrand Tour of Nepal
This itinerary includes the best of Nepal: the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley, jungle safaris in Chitwan...
View hereGrand Tour of North India... Our Favourite Luxury India Holiday
Named the Grand Tour for good reason! Experience Delhi, the majestic Taj Mahal, the sacred city of Varanasi and Khajuraho...
View hereGrand Tour of South India... Our Signature Family-friendly Holiday
This fabulous journey cherry-picks the region's highlights, from the colonial charm of Cochin and the buzzing temple-town of Madurai to the...
View hereGroup Diving in Raja Ampat
There is no better way to explore the mysterious and undiscovered world of Raja Ampat than by luxury sailing yacht.
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Huvafen Fushi, Maldives
Huvafen Fushi showcases the first ever underwater spa, a truly amazing experience. The style is minimalist yet modern architectural, allowing...
View hereIf Tarzan went to Sri Lanka...
- Kalpitiya
- Wilpattu National Park
- Sigiriya
- Kandy
- Gal Oya National Park
- Kumana National Park
- Galle
- Sinharaja
- Bentota
This tour is an Ampersand favourite! If Tarzan went to Sri Lanka we are sure that he would do something...
View hereIndia with Aman: A sophisticated journey for the senses
India is a divine destination for an Aman journey. The rich culture you'll discover here is a delightful sensory whirlwind....
View hereLaid-back Luxury... From Laos to Cambodia's Angkor Temples & Song Saa Private Island Resort
In less than two weeks combine Laos and Cambodia to experience the World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, the awe-inspiring...
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Lions & Wolves: Gujarat’s Exceptional Wildlife
Experience the rare wildlife and pristine landscapes of Gujarat on an all-encompassing wildlife itinerary to track the elusive Asiatic lions.
View hereLuxury Adventure in Nepal
From the Himalayan mountains to the jungle habitats of the tiger, this itinerary combines adventure with the best of Nepal:...
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Luxury Indochina… Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia
This trip gives you the most luxurious taste of Indochina. Enjoy Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia’s best boutique hotels, including one...
View hereLuxury Surfing in Sri Lanka
Hit the waves in Weligama and Tangalle for the ultimate Sri Lankan surfing holiday, perfect for those who also love...
View hereMeandering Down the Mekong... Thailand, Laos, Cambodia & Vietnam
- Chiang Rai
- Luang Prabang
- Vientiane
- Si Phan Don
- Pakse
- Kratie
- Siem Reap
- Phnom Penh
- Mekong Delta
- Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
This is our ‘super luxe’ Mekong itinerary. Sleeping both on the boat and in hotels, you will experience four countries...
View hereMystical Tamil Nadu... Our Sacred South India Tour
Exploring the myths and legends of the sacred south-east, this journey encapsulates the essence of the spiritual state of Tamil...
View hereSri Lanka’s Natural Wildlife Wonders
Experience the astonishing diversity and natural beauty of Sri Lanka's rivers, lakes, mountains, jungles and beaches.
View herePandaw Mekong Cruise... Vietnam & Cambodia
Ideal for people who like to cruise. Pandaw is not the only vessel that does this route; we have many...
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Sake, Snow, Shrines, Sand and Sushi
Japan has world class ski resorts as well as beaches to rival the best in Bali. So why not combine...
View hereSheer Indulgence... From Cambodia’s Angkor Temples to Phuket & Bangkok in Thailand
This indulgent journey combines three of the most fascinating facets of Cambodia and Thailand, using its finest hotels. Enjoy a...
View hereSiam in Style - Jungles, Trains & Beaches in Thailand
This luxurious itinerary travels from the hills of northern Thailand to the stunning beaches and islands in the country's south....
View hereSoneva Fushi, Maldives
Soneva Fushi is one of the most stunning and intimate resorts in the Maldives. Offering barefoot luxury at its best, the adventure...
View hereSouthern Vietnam & Cambodia’s Ancient Kingdom of Angkor
Go beyond the traditional tourist trails on this overland journey combining southern Vietnam and Cambodia. Begin in the bustling and...
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Sri Lanka’s Sublime Aman Experience
Combine the discovery of 400-year old Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the balmy seclusion of a palm-fringed...
View hereTaj Exotica, Maldives
Taj Exotica is a stunning resort is situated in the middle of one of the largest lagoons in the Maldives. Sandy beaches...
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Tamil Nadu & Kerala... A Luxury Tailor-made Tour of South India
Towering temples, mist shrouded hills and palm fringed beaches are just a few of the incredible sights that await you...
View hereTamil Nadu & the Andaman Islands... Cultural Tour & Beach Holiday in South India
A chance to experience two extremes of India: Tamil Nadu, a fabulous alternative to Rajasthan renowned for its incredible centuries-old...
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The Best of Laos... Mountains & Mekong Tour
This is a great trip if you are perhaps on your second trip to Laos and want to get under...
View hereThe Cultural Gems of Indochina... Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia
This trip gives you the perfect taste of Indochina in under two weeks. Despite travelling through three countries – Vietnam,...
View hereThe Golden Land of Burma… A Luxury Tour
Having recently returned from Burma, James & Mark have put together their ideal trip to the 'Golden Land' using their...
View hereThe Hidden Beaches of the Andaman Islands
Explore the hidden beaches and secret gems of India’s underrated and laid-back Andaman Islands on this relaxing 12-day itinerary.
View hereThe Historical Treasures & Natural Wonders of Laos
Uncover the charm and cultural gems of this utterly alluring country on this perfect introductory tailor-made itinerary. Travel from south...
View hereBelmond's Road to Mandalay... Burma by Boat
Meandering up the Irrawaddy on a luxury river boat is a wonderful and relaxing way to experience Burma. As this...
View hereThe Ultimate Adventure Tour of Thailand
The perfect balance of action and relaxation, ideal for nature and adventure-lovers. Enjoy several of Thailand’s natural splendors, from wildlife-rich national...
View hereThe Ultimate Burma Tour... No Stone Left Unturned
- Yangon (Rangoon)
- Kyaikhtiyo
- Inle Lake
- Putao
- Mandalay
- Maymyo (Pyin Oo Lwin)
- Hsipaw
- Bagan
- Mrauk U
- Ngapali Beach
This is our definitive Burma itinerary. As well as taking in all the major sites, this journey showcases all of...
View hereThe Ultimate Laos Adventure Tour
This is the ultimate way to experience Laos – ideal for people who have already begun their love affair with...
View hereThree Little Tastes of Heaven in Sri Lanka
It is said that Sri Lanka was the original Garden of Eden and it only takes one visit to see...
View hereTiger Blue, Indonesia: The Ultimate Sea Safari
Make it up as you go along on the ultimate Indonesian sea safari. Any stay on board the Tiger Blue...
View hereUndiscovered Burma... Luxury Sailing in the Mergui Archipelago
Are you looking for a new way to experience Burma? We have the answer: a 12-night luxury adventure featuring her...
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Wellness and Discovery at COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali, Indonesia
Whether you want total relaxation, post-natal fitness or to improve your athletic performance, this package is the perfect introduction to...
View hereEvents in January
New Year's Day: 1st January 2020
Burma Independence Day: 4th January 2020
Observed every year on 4th January the date celebrates Burma’s Declaration of Independence from Britain in 1948.
Int Yoga Festival (Pondicherry): 4th - 7th January 2020
Int Kite Festival (Ahmedabad): 6th - 14th January 2020
Bikaner Camel Fair, India: 11th & 12th January 2020
The Bikaner Camel Fair is celebrated to acknowledge the importance of camels in the lives of the Rajasthani people, and includes performances such as dances and races by the animals.
Lohri Festival (Punjab): 13th January 2020
Observed on the eve of the winter solstice the Lohri festival is marked by a range of traditional activities where locals expressing gratitude to the good harvest season and natural elements.
Coming of Age Day Japan: 13th January 2020
Celebrated every year on the second Monday of January, the public holiday marks the transition between childhood and adulthood (recognised as age 20 in Japan).
Kite Festival Jaipur (India): 14th January 2020
Coinciding with the Makar Sankranti celebrations the International Kite Festival is held in Rajasthan where the skies above the city come alive with kites of all colours and sizes.
Tamil Thai Pongal Day (Sri Lanka): 15th January 2020
A 4 day harvest festival celebrated to offer thanks to the Sun God and livestock for creating agricultural abundance. The festival is a thanksgiving to a successful harvest.
Tamil Thai Pongal Day (India): 15th January 2020
Galle Literary Festival (Sri Lanka): 16th - 20th January 2020
Attended by internationally acclaimed and well known writers, Galle Literary Festival hosts workshops, readings and panel discussions as well as championing local talent.
World Economic Forum Davos (World): 21st - 24th January 2020
Jaipur Literary Festival, India: 23rd - 27th January 2020
Celebrating excellence in Rajasthani, Indian and international writing, Jaipur Literary Festival welcomes over 100,000 people yearly and holds sessions and talks with famous authors over a five day period.
Tet Vietnamese New Year: 25th January 2020
Vietnamese express their respect and remembrance for their ancestors during Tet and welcome the New Year. It is the festival of purity and renewal.
Chinese New Year Week (World): 25th January - 8th February 2020
Traditionally a time to honour gods as well as ancestors, Chinese New Year has more than 4,000 years of history and is celebrated by families coming together, fireworks, traditional Chinese shows and red packets containing money.
Chinese New Year Day (World): 25th January 2020
Marking the start of the Year of the Pig (the final - 12th - position in the Chinese Zodiac).
India Republic Day: 26th January 2020
Republic Day honours the day in which the constitution of India came into force completing the country’s transition towards becoming an independent republic.
Elephanta Festival, India: 27th - 29th January 2020
Held at the UNESCO-protected Elephanta Caves, this festival celebrates the rich heritage and culture here.
India Art Fair: 30th January - 2nd February 2020
Nagaur Cattle Fair (India): 30th January - 2nd February 2020
Nagaur Cattle Fair is an opportunity for cattle merchants from all over Rajasthan to sell and but livestock such as camels, horses, cows and sheep. It is estimated that around 70,000 livestock are marketed each year in the carnival.
