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.

South Asia’s Life Changing Spiritual Destinations

South Asia’s Life Changing Spiritual Destinations

The heady horizons of South Asia is undeniably the world’s leading destination for those seeking a spiritual reset. From the goddess rivers of India, laden with flowers, singing and candles as the sun

The 10 Best Long Haul Holidays for 2019

The 10 Best Long Haul Holidays for 2019

Our collection of long-haul destinations combine culture, history, wildlife, sumptuous cuisine, a dose of tropical sunshine, and a truly luxurious flair. Explore the cultural delights of Vietnam or

Top 20 Burma (Myanmar) Travel Tips

Top 20 Burma (Myanmar) Travel Tips

Our Ampersand specialists have picked up a few helpful hints and tips while travelling around Burma (Myanmar)... Here are a handful of their insider tips:

Lotus Silk Weaving in Burma (Myanmar)

Lotus Silk Weaving in Burma (Myanmar)

On a research trip, Ampersand witnessed the fascinating process of weaving lotus silk by the friendly and talented ladies of Inle Lake, Burma.

Kalinko: A love affair with Burma

Kalinko: A love affair with Burma

Kalinko, a brand of ethically crafted textiles and homewares, was founded in Yangon by Londoner Sophie Garnier. Sophie works with a tribe called Ka-Lin-Kaw who are renowned for their weaving skills, and the collection comprises of linens, throws, beautifully cut garments, patterned cushions, all handmade on wooden looms. Here we get an insider glimpse into the land she now calls home…

15 Dream Honeymoon Spots in Asia (Romance Guaranteed...!)

15 Dream Honeymoon Spots in Asia (Romance Guaranteed...!)

Asia has an abundance of heart-stirring destinations and extraordinary experiences. From swimming in the gin-clear waters of Indonesia to discovering the majestic forts and palaces of Rajasthan, we have picked out the most dazzlingly romantic travel ideas for you and your loved one…

The Artisans of Burma (Myanmar)

The Artisans of Burma (Myanmar)

We write of the stunning skills and the tireless efforts of Burma’s creative artisans. From inside humble workshops, true artisans of their trade ply their crafts, magic is created and marvellous things are formed. Fuelled by a desire to immerse ourselves in the worlds that these experts inhabited we share some of what was discovered…

Do things differently with Ampersand Travel

At Ampersand we don’t do cookie cutter tours. Each and every trip is tailor-made to provide our clients with a mixture of the best-of-the-best luxury accommodation (mixed in with a few charming

Photoblog: A perfect first day in Burma

Photoblog: A perfect first day in Burma

Greeting from Yangon! Ampersand sales consultant, Ellie, and marketing manager, Sacha, are here on a 2 week reccy and have kicked off in style at the Governor's Residence - Ampersand's favourite hotel

Ampersand's top 5 breathtaking holidays in Asia

Ampersand's MD, James Jayasundera, dips into his knowledge of Asia to find five breathtaking trips for Square Mile magazine1. Best for adventurous culture-vultures: Jodhpur, IndiaWant a dose of


Client Testimonials

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

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