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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

2020: Hottest New Hotel Openings

2020: Hottest New Hotel Openings

2020 is poised to be a year of new beginnings. Not perhaps since the Millennium, has the turning of a calendar year seemed so notable. The constellation of hotels set to burst onto the wanderlust

Six Offbeat Ski Destinations Around the World

Six Offbeat Ski Destinations Around the World

There is nothing quite like the thrill of the slopes. One of the great unifying sports of the world, skiing crosses cultures and borders in a blaze of brilliant white adrenalin. Join us on a whirlwind

Summer in India - 5 of India’s most beautiful Hill Stations

Summer in India - 5 of India’s most beautiful Hill Stations

One of the most frequent questions travellers to India ask is "where to go in the subcontinent during the summer months?". While traditionally a low season period for inbound visitors, summer offers a

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


Client Testimonials

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
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
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket

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