Tibet is a land of superlatives. What was once the most expensive and most difficult place to travel has now since 1984 become accessible to all travelers. While the difficult of getting there has greatly diminished, the opportunity for adventure has not changed a whit. Roaming the stark and rugged plains can he seen shaven-headed lamas, hardy yak herders, leathery horsemen, demolition derby truck drivers, aloof Chinese on military maneuvers, runny-nosed urchins, nomad women with longtresses, proud Khampa tribesmen and assorted pilgrims. Living on this harsh plateau, Tibetans have learned to endure incredible hard hardships with a great sense of humor and easy-going hospitality. The biggest drawback to visiting Tibet is that all other places seen dull in comparison. The Land of Snows is a very special place, and once there it is difficult to leave behind the medieval magic of temples and people, none of which seem to be of this planet.