Tashi dele...that's hello in Tibetan!!

Managed to arrive in Lhasa only 20 minutes late which by Chinese standards almost means we arrived early!! Met by our guide, Sunam, who gave me a traditional Tibetan greeting with the "Hada"- a white silk scarf placed ceremonially around my neck before setting off to my hotel.



After arriving at 1630 and heading into Lhasa it is easy to see why for centuries Tibet has been one of the most mystifying and fascinating regions of the world. Locked away, high up in the vast Himalayas, it has captured the minds and imaginations of many, both east and west. Being spellbound by the magnificent scenery on the way in from the airport my guide tells me that Tibet is referred to as the real Shangri-La, the forbidden land, the roof of the world and the holy land of your innermost desire!!!

Bit of a bonus as I'm sure we were booked into a guesthouse but seem to have been upgraded to a hotel – no complaints from me!! Quite a pleasant 3 star hotel, very conveniently located to the old section of Lhasa close to all the markets. Not sure how many in our group yet – think between 8-12 – met another 2 ladies and we have hit it off well. Sharing a room with another Aussie who has had a few days here already to get her bearings and time permitting she is going to show me around the quarter tomorrow between our tours.

Lhasa is at an altitude of 3658m. I spent the evening acclimatizing and seem to be doing OK so far - following all advice to avoid high altitude sickness which includes no alcohol!! Heading to bed now as we are one of the first groups booked into the famous Potala Palace in the morning. Can’t wait to see this iconic Tibetan structure after all I have read.

Bye for now. Xx