TWRT-20121020-P2 Jim and Colin

In terms of feedback, we wanted to mention to you that the remoteness of Tibet, to a Western traveller, causes some anxiety. We were uncertain and worried about many things: the permit (getting approved and receiving the documents in Beijing), the domestic flights, the numerous police stops, the relative lack of English, the unknown ingredients and dishes on the menus, the cold weather. In the end, everything worked out. We never knew what we were ordering in the restaurants, but almost every dish was fabulous. The Shamballa Palace was freezing when we arrived, but it was charming and we were glad we had not stayed at the St Regis the whole time, or another Western hotel.

But because of the anxiety, it would be helpful if the guide could always tell the tourists exactly what the agenda will be for the day, what they need to do to prepare, and what options they have. For example, on the day that we visited the Potala Palace, we did not know that we would need to have passports. Fortunately, I had brought them rather than leave them at the hotel; but that’s the sort of thing that the tourists should be advised the night before. It might also be useful if you added something to your handout about preparing for Tibet that describes some of the typical dishes and ingredients that are found in most restaurant menus.

I hope that’s helpful. Again, we had a great trip, and we will certainly recommend you, Sam, and Explore Tibet to our friends.

From Jim and Colin