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.

Top 5 Most Interesting Cities in Asia and Where to Stay

Top 5 Most Interesting Cities in Asia and Where to Stay

From Bangkok to Delhi, Tokyo to Shanghai, Asia has some incredibly exciting and eclectic cities that offer a blend of history, culture and unique experiences.

Japan Through The Seasons: When to Travel for Cherry Blossom and Autumn Leaves

Japan Through The Seasons: When to Travel for Cherry Blossom and Autumn Leaves

Like the UK, Japan has four distinct seasons, each offering its own natural beauty and unique experiences. From the cherry blossoms of spring and the lush greenery of summer, to the red autumn leaves and the snowy winter landscapes, you can experience immense natural beauty all year round.

Best Luxury Spas & Wellness Retreats in India & Sri Lanka

Best Luxury Spas & Wellness Retreats in India & Sri Lanka

Whether you’re looking for some solo downtime, a girly getaway or quality time together as a couple, India and Sri Lanka offer some of the best spa hotels and wellness retreats catering to mind, body and soul. From ancient healing traditions in the Himalayas to modern wellness therapies on the Sri Lankan coast, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of our favourite wellness escapes across India and Sri Lanka.

2024 Hottest Hotel Openings

2024 Hottest Hotel Openings

It’s been another wonderful year of adventures and unforgettable travel at Ampersand. In this blog post, we highlight some of the hottest hotel openings we’re excited about for 2024, from a luxury safari camp in Botswana to a secluded lakeside paradise in China.

Iconic Wildlife Migrations in Africa and Asia

Iconic Wildlife Migrations in Africa and Asia

Throughout the year, hundreds of species take part in incredible international migrations that see them travel hundreds of kilometers in search of food, water, breeding grounds or more favourable climates.

Family Holidays to Asia with Cultural Experiences Kids Will Love

Family Holidays to Asia with Cultural Experiences Kids Will Love

The magic ingredient of every Ampersand trip is culture; we believe that's what makes a holiday memorable and enriching. In our opinion there really is no place better than Asia for exposing children to diverse cultures, history and traditions.

Most Romantic Cities and Luxury Hotels in Rajasthan

Most Romantic Cities and Luxury Hotels in Rajasthan

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or your dream honeymoon, Rajasthan is one of our top travel destinations for those looking for a unique luxury holiday that combines relaxation and adventure.

8 Novels to Read Before Travelling to India (Part 1)

8 Novels to Read Before Travelling to India (Part 1)

At Ampersand, we believe that reading fiction is, perhaps ironically, one of the most informative ways of learning about the culture, history and traditions of the country you’re travelling to.

Offbeat Ski Destinations Around the World

Offbeat Ski Destinations Around the World

When it comes to skiing, most people immediately think of the Alps or Canada. However, Asia and Africa offer some incredible ski resorts, as well as a chance to explore new cultures, cuisine and landscapes that you won’t find in the more traditional ski spots.

Best Christmas and New Year Holidays in India and Sri Lanka

Best Christmas and New Year Holidays in India and Sri Lanka

As we leave summer behind and start the descent into the bleak British winter, we find it’s always a good idea to book a holiday as something to look forward to. Our luxury holidays and cultural tours to the Indian Subcontinent offer something for all types of traveller.


Client Testimonials

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
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
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

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