David S. Demarest

While in Colorado I received a message from Gap-Adventures that all Tibet tours have been cancelled for the month of April.  Given the continuing unfortunate situation in and around Tibet, it is appearing increasingly likely that my trip starting May 4th will also be cancelled.  It is difficult to imagine that much will change in the next 30 days.  With the Olympics fast approaching in Beijing, the ongoing worldwide torch relay, and the continuing lockdown of Tibet by the Chinese, the chances of significant change seem small.  

Perhaps China will “see the light” and make the most of their time on the world stage to change their stance with regard to their ongoing practices of oppression.  That said, I think the likelihood is small. 

For me, the impact is one of changing travel plans.  So small, compared to the impact of those in Tibet and other areas affected by the decisions of the Chinese government.  Small, but nonetheless significant, as I had built a large part of my time away around the travel to Tibet.  Ironic, in that this past weekend I was with a group of friends that have recently visited Tibet and were so impressed by the region and its people.

As I wait to hear the decision by Gap on the May 4th tour, I will start looking at other options.  I can still fly to Beijing, spend a few days there, and then make my way south to Thailand, west to the Darjeeling area of India, possibly Nepal, and then further west to what is commonly known as Little Tibet.  I can then rejoin my planned itinerary in Delhi.  Granted, it is not what I wanted, but it would still be a remarkable trip.

If the Tibet portion does not materialize, I will also be disappointed at the loss of the group experience.  I was looking forward to the opportunity to get to know people from other areas and experiencing the tour with them.  As an independent traveler, I will still meet many people, but will not have the same benefit of time to get to know them as I would being part of a group. 

This week I will be in touch with Karen, my contact at the Adventure Travel Company (www.atcadventure.com) in Seattle to explore other options as we wait to see what happens.  I will be sure to post when I know more!