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.

Luxury Hotels in Thailand: Featured in The White Lotus Season 3

Luxury Hotels in Thailand: Featured in The White Lotus Season 3

With Thailand’s most breathtaking hotels featured in The White Lotus Season 3, now is the perfect time to experience them for yourself. From Koh Samui to Phuket, these luxurious retreats promise pure indulgence—without the drama.

Q&A: James answers FAQ on a first trip to Japan

Q&A: James answers FAQ on a first trip to Japan

We’ve been thrilled by the incredible response to our recent newsletter on Japan — it’s been wonderful to hear from so many of you! Your questions have been insightful, and we thought we’d take a

Japan Q&A with James Jayasundera

Japan Q&A with James Jayasundera

Welcome to our Japan Q&A. In this blog, we’ve gathered some of the most intriguing questions we received about this extraordinary country, all answered by our founder James following his recent trips.

Emily’s Tour of South India

Emily’s Tour of South India

Emily, Ampersand’s Senior Consultant, ended 2024 with a very special two week holiday to South India. From Hampi to Hyderabad, Goa and Mumbai, Emily shares her experience of each location and why this itinerary ticks all the boxes for your next Indian adventure.

Asia’s Wild Wonders: Top Wildlife Itineraries

Asia’s Wild Wonders: Top Wildlife Itineraries

As the largest continent on Earth, Asia spans nearly a third of the planet's landmass, and is therefore home to an incredible range of natural wonders and biodiversity. To help plan your next luxury Asia wildlife itinerary, we’ve shared a summary of our tried and tested Asia wildlife itineraries.

Why Travel With Ampersand?

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.

Luxury Hotel Openings in 2025

Luxury Hotel Openings in 2025

As we bid farewell to 2024 and look ahead to the new year, there’s plenty to be excited about in the world of travel for 2025. In this blog, we’re spotlighting four highly anticipated hotel openings or renovations that offer the perfect reason to plan your next getaway.

A Tailormade Tour of West Bengal with Ampersand Founder James Jayasundera

A Tailormade Tour of West Bengal with Ampersand Founder James Jayasundera

Our Founder James has recently returned from another extraordinary trip to India. Here, he shares his highlights of West Bengal, from sipping tea in the Himalayan foothills to pandal hopping through the busy streets of Kolkata during Durga Puja Festival.

Updated Travel Guide to Thailand: Where to Travel Now

Updated Travel Guide to Thailand: Where to Travel Now

Whether you're visiting Thailand for the first time or returning to rediscover its charm, the country's culture, landscapes, luxury hotels and warm hospitality ensure every trip feels like a new adventure. Here, we share an ideal 3-destination itinerary, plus our favourite hotels in each location, to help you explore the best of Thailand with Ampersand.

Choosing the Perfect Resort in the Maldives

Choosing the Perfect Resort in the Maldives

No matter which resort you pick in the Maldives there are some guarantees - lush tropical islands with pure white beaches, balmy weather, great swimming and diving, and a wonderful sense of remoteness. But each resort is also unique, so how do you pick the one that’s perfect for you?


Client Testimonials

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
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

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