Suggested itineraries in October

The gateway to winter, October is the ideal month for an exotic Asian getaway. The summer monsoon is coming to an end in central Vietnam, which means a little rain to break the temperature but mostly sunny days in the mid-to-south coast’s beautiful beaches. By October the southwest monsoon in India is easing so if you want to visit the cultural triangle, now is a fantastic time. Rajasthan has little rain in October and because of the recent monsoon, trees are a verdant green and tropical hibiscus flowers add splashes of colour.

A Gastronomic Tour of China

A Gastronomic Tour Of China Itinerary 1

13 days from £9,980 for 2025

Everyone has eaten Chinese cuisine before, but nothing compares to walking amongst the streets of Chengdu, being fascinated by the...

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A Grand Tour of Bhutan

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10 days from £8,000 for 2025

A wonderfully rich and varied itinerary designed for the first time visitor who wants the full introduction with all the...

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A Heavenly Journey through Bali, Indonesia with Alila Villas & COMO hotels

INDONESIA Alilavillassoori Paddy Field

13 days from £9,120 for 2025

Both soulful and luxurious, this heavenly holiday captures the very best of Bali staying at her finest hotels. Begin beachside...

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A Week in Laos

LAOS Luang Prabang Bridseye View

8 days from £4,500 for 2025

Explore the charming highlights of northern and southern Laos at a restful pace on this perfect seven day introductory itinerary...

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Aman Bhutan... The Luxury Amankora Journey

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10 days from £11,600 for 2025

Our most luxurious and serene Bhutan trip, staying exclusively in Amankora resorts and focusing on laid-back sightseeing with optional nature...

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Japan’s Ultimate Art & Architecture Tour

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16 days from £13,850 for 2025

Japan has a rich and diverse art scene, blending ancient traditions with cutting-edge contemporary works. This itinerary takes in some of the...

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An Educational Adventure: The Perfect Family Holiday to China

CHINA - Yunnan, women in local dress

14 days from £8,750 for 2025

Take your family on an authentic holiday of a lifetime to experience China’s classic sights in immersive and interactive ways....

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A Jewish Heritage Tour of China

Jewish Tour Of China 2

12 days from £7,900 for 2025

Explore China’s Jewish past on this special Jewish Heritage Tour that will take you to China’s historic Jewish hubs of...

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A Jewish Heritage Tour of India

Jewish Heritage Tour Of India Mumbai 5

15 days from £9,370 for 2025

Journey through India’s Jewish past and present on this special tour of her Jewish heritage hubs – Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta...

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Ancient India: A Historical Journey through Central India

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16 days from £7,640 for 2025

Central India is home to the country’s most ancient cultural sites. A hugely underrated region and an Ampersand favourite, the...

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Ampersand’s Signature Sri Lanka Tour

Ulagalla Anuradhapura SRI LANKA 16

16 days from £8,930 for 2025

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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Autumn Leaves in Japan

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16 days from £13,500 for 2025

The Japan Alps can be explored at any time of year but are perhaps at their most beautiful in autumn...

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Best of the Best in Burma... The Ultimate Luxury Tour

BURMA Governors Residence Yangon 17

15 days from £9,240 for 2025

It is no secret that Burma is a cultural treasure trove, but for those of you who love luxury too,...

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Beyond the Sky... Uma Punakha & Uma Paro

BHUTAN UMA Paro Paro 20

8 days from £7,330 for 2025

Perfect for both family holidays and honeymoons, Bhutan remains an exclusive, romantic and adventurous destination. COMO Hotels, with the addition...

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Boutique Indonesia... Sun, Sand & Stylish Hotels in Lombok, Bali & Moyo Island

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15 days from £10,870 for 2025

This quirky tour spans the tropical islands of Lombok, Bali and Moyo Island staying in some of Indonesia’s most stylish...

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Boutique Rajasthan... Romance, Culture & Stylish Hotels in North India

NORTH INDIA - Samode Palace

15 days from £8,180 for 2025

Here at Ampersand we like to do things differently, so on this itinerary you won’t find any one night stops...

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Burma... Return to the Golden Land

BURMA Governors Residence Yangon 13

12 days from £6,470 for 2025

With so much to see and experience, Burma is not a one-time destination. This itinerary is perfect for those looking...

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Cheeky Monkeys, Blue Whales and King Coconuts… Family Fun in Sri Lanka

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16 days from £8,320 for 2025

This itinerary was created for families young or old who love little adventures and wildlife. It is the perfect way...

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China & Burma: Style, Substance & Spirit

BURMA - religious statue

14 days from £8,750 for 2025

China and Burma, both substantial cultural identities, yet despite being neighbours, are lightyears apart. Discover the magic of these two...

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Classic Island Tour of Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA - 1 Buddha

16 days from £9,800 for 2025

This in-depth tour encompasses all the major sites of the Cultural Triangle before taking a leisurely route through the centre...

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Classic Kerala... Beautiful Beaches & Balmy Backwaters in South India

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14 days from £5,915 for 2025

A relaxed introduction to the friendly charm, incredible cuisine and fascinating history of the beautiful state of Kerala.

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Classic Tour of Vietnam & Cambodia’s Temples of Angkor

VIETNAM Street Scene Hanoi

13 days from £6,650 for 2025

This is one of our most popular trips and constantly gets marvellous feedback from clients. It includes a very extensive...

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Colours of Rajasthan, North India

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16 days from £7,730 for 2025

This is a wonderfully vibrant way to experience India: from bustling Delhi and the impressive Taj Mahal to the 'Pink City'...

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Dynastic Discovery: Exploring China's Heartland

Dynastic Discovery Exploring Chinas Heartland 4

13 days from £8,000 for 2025

Gazing into the enigmatic eyes of a two millenia old terracotta warrior and knowing that he and every single one...

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East to West: A Journey Through Bhutan

East To West A Journey Though Bhutan

17 days from £9,240 for 2025

If you like to be a pioneer then this itinerary will take you to places few non-Bhutanese have ever seen....

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Essential India... Our Comprehensive Tour of North & South India

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15 days from £8,800 for 2025

This itinerary is one of our absolute favourites. It combines the fascinating historical and natural gems of the northern regions...

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Family Adventure in Japan

Family Adventure In Japan 2

13 days from £9,490 for 2025

Japan offers endless fun for big kids and little kids alike. This itinerary encapsulates all that is weird and wonderful...

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Far from the madding crowd: rural highlights of Southern China

Far From The Madding Crowd Rural Highlights Of Southern China 14

18 days from £10,840 for 2025

Modern China has redefined the phrase 'concrete jungle'. However, there are countless rural idylls to be found spread across the...

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Gardens, Architecture and Customs of Japan

Gardens Architecture And Customs Of Japan 1

14 days from £9,610 for 2025

From the Imperial Palace gardens to the zen-inspired grounds of ancient temples, Japan is an ideal destination for lovers of...

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Geoffrey Bawa; An Architectural Tour of Sri Lanka

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13 days from £3,400 for 2025

This tour draws pure inspiration from the late and talented architect, Geoffrey Bawa and visits the places he lived in,...

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Grand Tour of Nepal

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12 days from £5,140 for 2025

This itinerary includes the best of Nepal: the UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Kathmandu Valley, jungle safaris in Chitwan...

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Grand Tour of North India... Our Favourite Luxury India Holiday

NORTH INDIA - Jodhpur

17 days from £10,840 for 2025

Named the Grand Tour for good reason! Experience Delhi, the majestic Taj Mahal, the sacred city of Varanasi and Khajuraho...

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Grand Tour of South India... Our Signature Family-friendly Holiday

SOUTH INDIA - Tamil Nadu (8)

20 days from £11,580 for 2025

This fabulous journey cherry-picks the region's highlights, from the colonial charm of Cochin and the buzzing temple-town of Madurai to the...

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If Tarzan went to Sri Lanka...

If Tarzan Went To Sri Lanka Itinerary

19 days from £10,530 for 2025

This tour is an Ampersand favourite! If Tarzan went to Sri Lanka we are sure that he would do something...

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India with Aman Plus the Taj Mahal: A sophisticated journey for the senses

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9 days from £6,410 for 2025

India is a divine destination for an Aman journey. The rich culture you'll discover here is a delightful sensory whirlwind. 

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A Week at Six Senses Vana - India’s Ultimate Wellness Retreat

VANA Malsi Estate Dehradun North India Shared Spaces Yoga Temple 2

10 days from £5,150 for 2025

Indulge in the ultimate restorative break: 8 days at Asia’s most innovative, yet authentic, wellness retreat, Six Senses Vana in...

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Introduction to Nepal

NEPAL Kathmandu Temple

8 days from £3,280 for 2025

The perfect short tour of Nepal combining its cultural and scenic wonders. Explore ancient Hindu and Buddhist sites in Kathmandu;...

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A Perfect Introduction to Japan

Kyoto Japan 25

14 days from £8,640 for 2025

Japan is a varied and culturally rich country which rewards repeat visits. First-timers can cover a lot of ground culturally...

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Japan’s Coasts and Countryside

Cities Coasts And Countryside

15 days from £11,900 for 2025

The great bustling cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Hiroshima are rich with the history and culture of Japan, from its...

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Luxury Adventure in Nepal

Introduction to Nepal and Bhutan itinerary (1)

12 days from £4,810 for 2025

From the Himalayan mountains to the jungle habitats of the tiger, this itinerary combines adventure with the best of Nepal:...

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Best of Bhutan: The Ultimate Luxury Grand Tour

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13 days from £12,570 for 2025

This is our most extensive and exclusive tour of Bhutan – perfect for people who want to look under every...

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Luxury Indonesian Island Tour... Aman Bali & Beyond

Amanwana Moyo Island Eastern Indonesia Indonesia Ampersand Travel 13

11 days from £9,240 for 2025

Begin at the Amandari in Ubud, Bali, set amidst forests, rivers and emerald rice paddies. Next, to the Amanwana for...

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Nihi Sumba Island... Indonesia’s Most Romantic Island Hideaway

INDONESIA Nihiwatu 5

9 days from £9,100 for 2025

Just one hour's flight from Bali, Nihi Sumba Island is a small and exclusive resort in remote eastern Indonesia –...

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Rajasthani Nights - Luxury Desert Tour of North India

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12 days from £5,920 for 2025

Covering Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Rohet and Osian, this itinerary is perfect for those who enjoy vast natural landscapes, wildlife, colourful Rajasthani...

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Retracing China's Ancient Tea and Horse Caravan Trail

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12 days from £7,150 for 2025

Jeff Fuchs’ expert led expedition along the unexplored sections of the Ancient Tea and Horse Caravan Road. Explore the diversity...

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Sensational Bali, Indonesia with Alila Villas

INDONESIA Alila Uluwatu Bali Indonesia 1

8 days from £6,470 for 2025

This deliciously indulgent holiday captures the very best of Bali staying exclusively with Alila Villas properties. Start with three nights...

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Southern Vietnam & Cambodia’s Ancient Kingdom of Angkor

CAMBODIA Siem Reap Raffles D Angkor Hotel At Night

12 days from £7,885 for 2025

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 Cultural Triangle & Beach

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14 days from £8,130 for 2025

This tour offers both an insightful view to Sri Lanka's history as well a relaxing coastal break enjoying the island's...

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Taj Palace Tour... The Ultimate Indian Indulgence

NORTH INDIA - Rambagh Palace

13 days from £11,100 for 2025

A combination of what we do best, this 17 day tour blends opulent luxury with the best of Indian culture....

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Tamil Nadu & Kerala: From Coast to Coast

South India Chinese Fishingnets Fort Cochin

20 days from £8,870 for 2025

From Tamil Nadu to Kerala; a comprehensive tour from the Coromandel Coast to the Malabar Coast. Towering temples, mist shrouded hills...

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Temples & Volcanoes of Central Java, Indonesia

Central Java and its Volcanic Peaks - Indonesia itinerary (2)

11 days from £7,830 for 2025

Discover Indonesia’s most populated island in this tailor-made itinerary. From the bustling streets of Yogyakarta to the rural idyll of...

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The Best of Luxury Bali, Indonesia... The Ultimate Aman Experience

INDONESIA Amandari Villa Home 1

8 days from £8,100 for 2025

Start at the Amankila – a wonderful sanctuary for romantic, spiritual and active pursuits. Continue to the Amandari in the...

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The Cultural Gems of Indochina... Vietnam, Laos & Cambodia

The Gems Of Indochina Itinerary 3

9 days from £5,920 for 2025

This trip gives you the perfect taste of Indochina in under two weeks. Despite travelling through three countries – Vietnam,...

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The Golden Land of Burma… A Luxury Tour

BURMA - Bagan - Shwezigon Paya

12 days from £6,690 for 2025

Having recently returned from Burma, James & Mark have put together their ideal trip to the 'Golden Land' using their...

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The Hidden Beaches of the Andaman Islands

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10 days from £7,150 for 2025

Explore the hidden beaches and secret gems of India’s underrated and laid-back Andaman Islands on this relaxing 10-day itinerary.

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The Historical Treasures & Natural Wonders of Laos

LAOS Luang Prabang Golden Temple

14 days from £8,260 for 2025

Uncover the charm and cultural gems of this utterly alluring country on this perfect introductory tailor-made itinerary. Travel from south...

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The Length of the Bullet Train Line in Japan

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19 days from £14,900 for 2025

With two recent extensions to Aomori in the north and Kagoshima to the south, the bullet train line now runs...

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The Most Spectacular Festival in Sri Lanka - Esala Perahera

Sri Lanka Cultural Triangle And Beach Itinerary 2

10 days from £5,920 for 2025

This variety packed tour gives you an in depth insight into what Sri Lanka is all about. Take part in...

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Belmond's Road to Mandalay... Burma by Boat

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11 days from £5,110 for 2025

Meandering up the Irrawaddy on a luxury river boat is a wonderful and relaxing way to experience Burma. As this...

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The Ultimate Burma Tour... No Stone Left Unturned

BURMA - U Bein Bridge, Mandalay

21 days from £10,450 for 2025

This is our definitive Burma itinerary. As well as taking in all the major sites, this journey showcases all of...

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Tiger Blue, Indonesia: The Ultimate Sea Safari

Tiger Blue, Indonesia: The Ultimate Sea Safari

11 days from £6,160 for 2025

Make it up as you go along on the ultimate Indonesian sea safari. Any stay on board the Tiger Blue...

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Travel East Asia in Luxurious Style with Aman Resorts

Aman SEA Tour VIETNAM Amanoi Vinh Hy Bay Vietnam 2

17 days from £15,770 for 2025

Experience the beauty of Southeast Asia on this 18 day tour while staying exclusively at Aman proprieties. Observe the brand’s...

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Ultimate Helicopter Tour of Nepal

Ultimate Helicopter Tour Of Nepal Itinerary

15 days from £17,130 for 2025

A real holiday of a lifetime around Nepal by private helicopter with an expert guide throughout – on foot this...

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Ultimate Luxury Tour of Japan

Best Of The Best In Japan 9

12 days from £10,900 for 2025

Japan has the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, and it has a number of super-luxe accommodation options to match....

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Wellness and Discovery at COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali, Indonesia

Wellness And Discovery Como Shambhala Bali 3

7 days from £5,550 for 2025

Whether you want total relaxation, post-natal fitness or to improve your athletic performance, this package is the perfect introduction to...

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Bhutan’s Beautiful Black Necked Cranes

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10 days from £9,430 for 2025

The best time for spotting the beautiful Black Neck Crane is from early December to mid-March. This is a great...

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Wonders of the Ancient World... Grand Archaeological Tour of Indonesia, Burma & Cambodia

Wonders Of The Ancient World Itinerary 11

11 days from £9,350 for 2025

If you are interested in ancient history and love to travel in style, this is the ultimate itinerary for you....

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Client Testimonials

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
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
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 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 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
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
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
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
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 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
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
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
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, 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
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

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