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.

Newly Opened ‘Japan House’ in Kensington – A Slice of Tokyo in London

Newly Opened ‘Japan House’ in Kensington – A Slice of Tokyo in London

Much to our delight, Japan House opened its gleaming doors to the public this weekend (23rd – 24th June 2018). We’ve been avidly awaiting this welcome addition to Kensington High Street and it has far

The Most LGBT-Friendly Cities in the UK

The Most LGBT-Friendly Cities in the UK

June is LGBT Pride Month, and to mark the occasion we have created a guide to the most LGBT-friendly cities in the UK.In our newly released Rainbow Cities Index, we have analysed multiple factors

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.

9 of the best hotels for the best luxury comforts in the Capital

9 of the best hotels for the best luxury comforts in the Capital

London is bursting with luxury hotels, but how do you know what's what, which is which and where to stay? Here is our round up of the 9 best hotels for the finest luxury comforts in the Capital...

Scotland: Festivals and Events

Scotland: Festivals and Events

Scotland has plenty to offer, including several annual events that we absolutely love. Read on to learn which ones we recommend, as well as a few of our personal favourite haunts and must-do activities.

Dining Al Fresco: 10 of London’s Best

Dining Al Fresco: 10 of London’s Best

Summertime is when London takes it outside. Michelin starred restaurants, family-run cafés and glittering bars. There’s so much to choose from that it helps to know where look for the best outdoor hot spots. Here's our al fresco dining guide of London’s ten best outdoor eating options...

Ampersand's Spotlight on... London Theatre

Ampersand's Spotlight on... London Theatre

London is on fire at the moment. Not in a “London’s burning, London’s burning…” way, as goes the nursery rhyme that tells the story of the Great Fire in 1666. No. But it is now one of the most important creative hubs in the world...

Top 6 London Hotels

Top 6 London Hotels

If you fancy hunkering down in a fabulous luxury London hotel this winter then rest assured we’ve done the hard work for you. From a Grand Dame city institution to a beautiful glittering landmark,


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
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
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

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