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.

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.

When and where can you see the Cherry Blossom in Japan?

When and where can you see the Cherry Blossom in Japan?

Japan’s cherry blossom season is one of the most iconic times of year to visit, often cited as a symbol of the transient nature of life. Here you can read about the best hotspots in the height of the season, and the more unusual spots which will see you dodging the crowds…

Family Travel: Cultural experiences kids will love

Family Travel: Cultural experiences kids will love

We have rounded up our top travel ideas for children - experiences which will let them leave their comfort zone, engage with a foreign culture and, most importantly, have lots of fun!

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

James Jayasundera gives 5 reasons why you should travel with children

James Jayasundera gives 5 reasons why you should travel with children

Over the years friends and clients have often asked: “Should we take our children on holiday to Asia?" My answer is: Absolutely! Asians love children, they will treat them like royalty

The best family holidays in the UK – our pick of the best places to stay with children in England and Scotland

The best family holidays in the UK – our pick of the best places to stay with children in England and Scotland

Chewton Glen, New Forest, Hampshire: Endless grounds, two swimming pools, a nearby beach and inhabitable tree houses make this New Forest hotel a firm family favourite.

Ampersand Travel Presents... Southern Africa!

Ampersand Travel Presents... Southern Africa!

You need to get a few things right to do what we do. Excellent ground handlers, an enviable contacts book, expert in-house consultants and frequent research trips are all key, but the crucial thing

Where to Find the Best Brunch in London

Where to Find the Best Brunch in London

Breakfast, lunch and dinner have been pushed to one side – in case you hadn’t heard, brunch is the most important meal of the day. In recent years the brunch industry has been booming with people of all ages, genders and social groups scheduling a tasty combination of lunch and breakfast into their weekends...

Ampersand’s mini-guide to Laos

Ampersand’s mini-guide to Laos

"Despite all of the transformation, much about Vientiane remains the same: the monks sweeping their temple grounds at dusk, the joys of a Beer Lao on the riverfront at sunset, the baguette vendors


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
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
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

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