OPTIONAL EXTENSION — POST PROGRAM TRAVEL


Lhasa, Tibet – 2008

Lhasa, the capital city of the Tibet Autonomous Region, is also its political, economic, and cultural center. It is home to many historical and scenic sites in both its urban and rural areas.
 

Day One: Journey to Lhasa
Today is your arrival in Lhasa. You’ll be met at the airport and transported to your hotel for a chance to stretch your legs. This basic hotel is the nicest in the city and offers the standard amenities to make your stay comfortable.

The remainder of the day is free for you to relax and acclimate to the altitude.

Day Two: Tour of the Potala and Norbulingka Palaces
Delegates will visit the magnificent Potala Palace. This 13-story, 1,000-room citadel served as headquarters to the former “church-state” of Tibet. From the latter half of the 18th century, it was home to successive Dalai Lamas, who used it as their winter palace.

This afternoon, explore the Norbulingka Palace, which served as the traditional summer residence of the Dalai Lamas from the 18th century until the late 1950s.
 

Day Three: Explore Lhasa
The Sera Monasteries, founded in 1419, are monastic universities dedicated to the religious education of Buddhist monks. Learn their fascinating history and a little of their lifestyle. Experience the life of a Tibetan townsperson while visiting a local village.

Day Four: Fly to Chengdu
You’ll have breakfast at the hotel, travel to the airport, and check in for your flight out of Lhasa (via Chengdu). After lunch you’ll be free to rest or explore independently. Enjoy dinner and a performance at a local theater (Changing Faces Opera).

Day Five: Return Home
Today you will fly home via Hong Kong.
Tips For Traveling To Tibet

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common at high altitudes. The severity depends on the elevation, the rate of ascent, and individual susceptibility. Most visitors to Tibet will suffer from at least some symptoms. Generally, they disappear through acclimation in several hours to several days. We strongly urge you to speak with your personal physician for options to help deal with AMS while visiting Tibet.

Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, dizziness, lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea, breathlessness, and irritability. Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom. To prevent acute mountain sickness:

  • Begin the program well-rested and get adequate rest during the program
  • Drink extra fluids. The mountain air is dry and can be cold, and moisture is lost as you breathe. Evaporation of sweat may occur unnoticed and result in dehydration.
  • Eat light, high-carbohydrate meals for more energy.
  • Avoid alcohol, as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don’t smoke.
  • Avoid sedatives.
  • Don’t push yourself when climbing up to passes. Take plenty of breaks.


To participate in the optional extension, complete and return the extension registration form in your Delegate Protocol no later than 90 days prior to departure.