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.

Where to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Asia

Where to Celebrate New Year's Eve in Asia

Asia is home to some of the most exciting and diverse celebrations in the world, with New Year's Eve celebrations being no exception. From extravagant firework displays and all-night parties to traditional cultural ceremonies, these are our top recommendations for an unforgettable NYE experience in Asia.

The Best Street Food & Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Japan

The Best Street Food & Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Japan

Japan’s food scene is a remarkable journey through flavours, tradition and innovation, offering something for every type of food lover. From street stalls serving stir-fried noodles and fish-shaped pastries to the world’s highest concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants, Japan is a true culinary paradise that’s as diverse as it is delicious.

Best Wildlife Experiences in Asia

Best Wildlife Experiences in Asia

From the majestic Bengal Tigers of India to the elusive leopards of Sri Lanka, these two incredible countries are home to some of the best wildlife destinations in the world. In this blog, we’ll explore where to go for the most luxury camps and high-quality safari experiences in India and Sri Lanka.

Discover the Magic of Japan Beyond Cherry Blossom Season

Discover the Magic of Japan Beyond Cherry Blossom Season

While cherry blossom season (sakura) is world-famous and an incredibly popular time to visit Japan, this unique country has so much to offer year-round. Explore historic temples, ski on fresh powder in the Japanese Alps, hike through hidden valleys, discover ancient pilgrimage routes, go diving in tropical waters, take part in a traditional tea ceremony or try a kimono in any season.

Geoffrey Bawa: The Pioneer of Tropical Modernism

Geoffrey Bawa: The Pioneer of Tropical Modernism

Geoffrey Bawa (1919 - 2003) is considered Sri Lanka’s most iconic architect and is often referred to as the “pioneer of tropical modernism." Redefining how the built form could harmonize with its natural environment, his prolific body of work blended modernist design with the tropical landscapes of South Asia. This blog explores some of Bawa’s key works across the island.

Luxury Travel with Ampersand Travel: Planning the Year Ahead

Luxury Travel with Ampersand Travel: Planning the Year Ahead

As summer starts to fade and we gradually get into the back-to-school mindset, at Ampersand Travel we think this is the perfect time to start planning your holidays for the year ahead. Based on our own travels and our extensive experience, we’ve mapped out our travel plans across Asia and Southern Africa over the next 12 months.

Our Favourite Properties Across Southeast Asia

Our Favourite Properties Across Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia, a region renowned for its vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes and diverse experiences, offers some of the most beautiful and luxurious properties in the world. In this blog, we explore our favourite properties across this region that all promise a unique and unforgettable experience.

Summer Reading List: Our Favourite Books to Inspire a South East Asia Adventure

Summer Reading List: Our Favourite Books to Inspire a South East Asia Adventure

If you’re embarking on an adventure to Southeast Asia, then what better way to prepare for your journey than by diving into some captivating reads that explore the region’s rich history and diverse cultures? We’ve curated a list of our favourite fiction and non-fiction books to inspire and enrich your Southeast Asia adventure.

Best Active Holidays in Asia

Best Active Holidays in Asia

Active holidays in Asia are not just about physical activity; they are about immersing yourself in the diverse beauty and culture of this rich continent. Whether trekking through the Himalayas, surfing waves in Sri Lanka, skiing in India or diving in Indonesia, browse our itineraries for ideas on how to create your own unforgettable active getaway.

Durga Puja Festival in Kolkata

Durga Puja Festival in Kolkata

Every autumn, Durga Puja festival transforms Kolkata into a spectacle of divine pageantry and communal revelry. Typically held in September or October and lasting 10 days, Durga Puja is not just a religious festival; it is a cultural, social and artistic event that brings the community together, transcending social barriers. It celebrates the empowerment of women, the triumph of good over evil, and the importance of family and community.


Client Testimonials

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
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’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

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences