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Author Archive for James Jayasundera

James Jayasundera is Founder and Managing Director of Ampersand Travel in London. Ampersand Travel is an award-winning tour operator specialising in tailor-made holidays to Asia and Africa. James was raised in Rome by a Sri Lankan diplomat father and British mother, and from an early age he was travelling throughout the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Although he loves comfort, he is not blinded by five-star luxuries – the Ampersand motto is “luxury is in the experience” and it is that indefinable quality that makes something special which James is always on the look-out for. James founded Ampersand Travel in 2003, and since then the company has developed an excellent reputation for in-depth knowledge of its destinations, candid and impartial opinions on hotels and locations and a formidable network of contacts within the industry and its destinations.

6 of Asia’s best secret gems

By James Jayasundera on Jul 15, 2016 in Accommodation, Asia, Bed & Breakfasts, China, Hotels, India, Japan, Myanmar, Regions, Sri Lanka

Secret gems are little-known, slightly different boltholes, which provide a truly lovely off-the-radar experience for travellers. From quirky estates in Southern India to English country cottages in Burma, we’ve rounded up six of our favourite hideaways which will be sure to offer something a little special for your next holiday… Secrets are for sharing after […]

5 of the best luxury sailboat journeys in Asia

By James Jayasundera on Jun 14, 2016 in Adventure Travel, Asia, Cruises & Boat Travel, Indonesia, Myanmar, Regions, Speciality Travel

On a luxury sailboat, the journey really is the destination. From Indonesia’s Komodo Islands and the marine wonderland of Raja Ampat to Burma’s undiscovered Mergui Archipelago, these boats sail some of Asia’s most stunning seas. Decked out in the height of luxury with expert crews and ample sporting equipment, these luxury vessels promise a truly […]

Why is Sri Lanka the perfect luxury family destination?

By James Jayasundera on May 16, 2016 in Asia, Regions, Sri Lanka

Putting aside all the obvious reasons for visiting this tear-drop island: breath-taking scenery, tropical climate, exotic paradise a million miles away from home… Sri Lanka is an island which really has it all. Here is why we think Sri Lanka is so wonderfully family-friendly, with our top 5 places not to be missed… Getting around […]

A foodie’s guide to Japan

By James Jayasundera on Apr 14, 2016 in Asia, Featured, Food and Drink, Going Out, Japan, Regions, Restaurants, Travel Miscellany

Tokyo, the world’s greatest food city; crowned King of Gourmet and Michelin star haven. A Michelin three star rating is considered the ultimate international recognition in the culinary world, with 13 Tokyo restaurants boasting this prestigious award. If you love your food but are yet to try Japan, let your taste buds be taken on […]

7 of the best and most luxurious safari lodges in India and Sri Lanka

By James Jayasundera on Mar 22, 2016 in Accommodation, Adventure Travel, Asia, Camping, Hotels, India, Regions, Resorts, Speciality Travel, Sri Lanka

Few people realise that the Indian subcontinent contains some of the world’s best wildlife destinations. From elephants to bears, leopards to tigers, and an array of exotic birds, a luxury safari to India or Sri Lanka is sure to excite even the most experienced of enthusiasts. Getting as close to nature as possible and staying […]

6 of the most romantic spots to say ‘I love you’ in India

By James Jayasundera on Feb 29, 2016 in Asia, Attractions, Going Out, India, Regions

India is a beautiful country with love and romance evident around every corner. Where better to holiday with a loved one than in one of the wonderful locations below where you and your partner can revel in luxury and soak up some of the most iconic views from around the world… Ladakh, North India Soaring […]

7 of the best luxury spas in Asia

By James Jayasundera on Jan 29, 2016 in Accommodation, Asia, Bhutan, China, Hong Kong, Hotels, India, Indonesia, Japan, Leisure Travel, Regions, Resorts, Spas & Pampering, Speciality Travel, Sri Lanka

Asia is home some of the best spas in the world. Whether you’re looking for romantic downtime, solitary pampering or to experience the practice of Ayurvedic medicine, a great spa for a relaxing holiday is crucial. For the spa lovers and those looking to rest their weary body, we’ve put together seven of the very […]

Tremendous China – 11 luxury locations to enjoy

By James Jayasundera on Dec 24, 2015 in Asia, Attractions, Bars, China, Going Out, Regions, Restaurants

China remains an enigmatic location for many travellers, particularly those looking for luxury, but it is home to some of the most incredible destinations and experiences for those who like to enjoy the finer things in life. Below are 11 locations that any luxury traveller will be impressed with when they visit tremendous China… 1. […]

10 of Burma’s most luxurious hotels (and boats)

By James Jayasundera on Nov 25, 2015 in Accommodation, Asia, Cruises & Boat Travel, Hotels, Myanmar, Regions, Resorts, Speciality Travel

Burma is a beautiful country which has long been off the map for tourists to come and go as they please. However, in recent years Burma has become much more accessible and the tourist trade has grown with it to a point where it can now offer luxurious accommodation to rival its Asian neighbours. Here […]

3 of the best babymoons for Londoners

By James Jayasundera on Oct 16, 2015 in Accommodation, Europe, Hotels, Leisure Travel, Regions, Speciality Travel, United Kingdom, Western Europe

It makes sense that pregnant ladies and fathers-to-be want to make the most of their last chance at rest, relaxation and pampering before their new bundle of joy arrives and turns their lives on its head. Perhaps you’ve been working throughout your pregnancy while simultaneously attending medical appointments, purchasing the necessary baby paraphernalia and decorating […]

10 of the best luxury eco retreats in Asia

By James Jayasundera on Sep 15, 2015 in Accommodation, Asia, Cambodia, Hotels, India, Indonesia, Laos, Regions, Resorts, Sri Lanka, Thailand

Asia is a fantastic place to enjoy luxury and is also home to some of the best eco retreats in the world. If you’re looking for a dream break that lets you rest your weary body in a sustainable way then we’ve put together ten of the very best places to sit back, relax and […]

1. Dine at Bhairo restaurant; stay at Taj Lake Palace

10 magical North Indian experiences

By James Jayasundera on Aug 13, 2015 in Accommodation, Attractions, Going Out, Hotels, Restaurants

India is an incredible country packed with diverse things to see and do. To accomplish everything in one trip is nigh on impossible, so you need to pick your battles and aim for the best bits first to ensure you don’t miss out. We all know about the Taj Mahal and beaches of Goa, but […]

24 luxury hours in Tokyo

By James Jayasundera on Jul 18, 2015 in Accommodation, Asia, Attractions, Food and Drink, Going Out, Hotels, Japan, Regions, Travel Miscellany

You’ve just landed in the surprising, thrilling and ever-changing city of Tokyo. Every single day here is a surprise; because this fast-paced capital just never stops moving. But you have a dilemma; you have just 24 precious hours to get the most out of Tokyo’s neon lights and endless noodle bars. So where do you […]

4 perfect places for a luxury family holiday in Asia

By James Jayasundera on Jun 30, 2015 in Accommodation, Asia, Cambodia, Family Travel, Hotels, Indonesia, Maldives, Regions, Resorts, Singapore, Speciality Travel

Asia is a lot of things. But above all else, it’s a vast continent built on history and spirituality. When it comes to exotic landscapes and unusual destinations, it’s a traveller’s paradise. But what you may not know about Asia is its very unique approach to luxury and extravagance; there are so many incredible resorts […]

3 dream destinations for a luxury surf break in Asia

By James Jayasundera on May 15, 2015 in Asia, Indonesia, Leisure Travel, Maldives, Regions, Speciality Travel, Sri Lanka

Imagine soft sand pressing under your feet, a sea that’s impossibly blue, and all the opulence you can dream of; imagine that with open waves crashing beneath your surfboard. Great surf and prolific luxury can co-exist. In fact, it does exist and here are 3 dream surfing destinations in Asia to prove it. Kuda Huraa, […]

9 amazing sights to see on a luxury tour of Indonesia

By James Jayasundera on Apr 30, 2015 in Accommodation, Asia, Attractions, Going Out, Hotels, Indonesia, Regions

It may be a backpacker’s paradise with its thousands and thousands of islands and laidback lifestyle, but if you’re in search of luxury in Indonesia, you needn’t look far. This sovereign state and archipelago is filled with amazing sights that will blow you away; volcanic backdrops and dramatic temple ruins, paradise beaches and world class […]