I expect travelers to make their own decisions about these things. I think you did the right thing by doing the story and letting people know their options. Perhaps some travelers will take the train trip to do volunteer work in Tibet rather than fly from Shanghai or other take off points. I love Budget Travel, I do not expect you to be my conscience. I beleieve it is my responsibility to be informed about politics around the world and make my travel decisions based on that alone. We have become a country of people who wish nothing more than to be spoon-fed our beliefs and opinions. Shame on the people who complained.

Posted By Mary Ann Chaney on March 17, 2008, 1:34 PM

It's a close call, but I think you should have mentioned the issue. Budget Travel is good because it's qualitative. I for one want your suggestions. You can't bring up every potential issue. But at some point, they become large enough that you do your readers a disservice if you don't even mention them. Such as Myanmar, Ethiopia or Sudan. Or air pollution in Beijing. People can of course make their own choices but if blatant issues are omitted, it cuts against your credibility. Now is what's going on in Tibet balatant? I think it probably is. Sorry if this isn't what you wanted to hear.

John

Posted By John on March 17, 2008, 2:13 PM

Budget Travel should not limit travel stories based on governmental policies or ethical issues. Everyone can decide on their own. Please note that by not visiting a questionable location, it is the locals that suffer either by not getting your business or hearing stories from the outside world. Plus in the internet age, many times it is the photos and videos from travelers that show the outside world what is really going on.

Posted By Steve on March 17, 2008, 5:01 PM

I don't know if in your article you made mention of the repressive hold the Chinese have on Tibet, but i, if you did, that would balance the story. it is an important aspect of Tibet's situation. it wiuld be responsible journalism to note the political situation there as well as other things about tibet

Posted By lgrillo on March 20, 2008, 12:07 PM

I don't know if in your article you made mention of the repressive hold the Chinese have on Tibet, but i, if you did, that would balance the story. it is an important aspect of Tibet's situation. it wiuld be responsible journalism to note the political situation there as well as other things about Tibet.

Posted By lgrillo on March 20, 2008, 12:08 PM

You were right to cover this. People have to decide if they want to support this or not. To not cover it would have been a disservice to your readers.

Posted By Michael S. on March 20, 2008, 12:09 PM

Budget travel or not I think anyone who can actually afford to goto Tibet is probably going to be aware of its history with China.

Posted By Zack on March 20, 2008, 12:16 PM

If all you care about is providing travel info then you were right to cover it. If on the other hand you have some interest in making the world a better place, then you should not have.
Tibet had been under the thumb of the Chinese since 1959 and Tibetan culture is on the verge of extinction because of the Chinese occupation.

Posted By mike papas on March 20, 2008, 12:17 PM

I've read articles in travel magazines about travel in China, Burma and other repressive regimes that fail to even mention the tyrannical governments and lack of freedom. Budget Travel and other magazines present the world as one big Disneyland that exists solely for the amusement of those with money to travel.

Posted By John Korchok on March 20, 2008, 12:17 PM

You were ok writing about the train. I look to your publication for travel information, not political information. If I need political information I will consult a news source.

Posted By Carol Hoyt on March 20, 2008, 12:19 PM

Budget Travel is simply a magazine intended to help people travel with reasonable costs. It's not called "Politically Correct Travel" or "Ethical Travel" for a reason. If people are thinking about traveling to a place like Tibet it is their responsibility to do some research on their own. What kind of person goes that far without research? Budget Travel you did exactly as you are supposed to: You let us know about a new feature that we might want to check out without forcing any ideas/opinions about the political issues occurring in the country.

Posted By Anna on March 20, 2008, 12:22 PM

It's a travel magazine for God's sake. The crazies with the Free Tibet bumper stickers see the word Tibet and go into savior mode. If they believe in this cause, these people need to confront the Chinese government not try to get a travel mag to do their dirty work!

Posted By Rod Scott on March 20, 2008, 12:23 PM

China IS subjugating Tibet, and has for years. Why is it that suddenly since the US owes China billions of dollars are we supposed to turn a blind eye to their human rights violations?

Posted By Joyce Finlay on March 20, 2008, 12:25 PM

Please continue to tell us about wonderful travel opportunities. Let us decide for ourselves where and if we want to travel there. You should not filter your travel recommendations due to political issues.

Posted By Steve on March 20, 2008, 12:25 PM

I agree with a previous writer, John, that there should have been a mention of Tibet in a historical perspective.
It seems that some want travel without a conscience.
We are all travelers on this planet and are, in part, responsible for what happens.
Consider that most of the readers would not litter in a foreign country - is the killing and supression of an occupied population a lesser violation that should not be even MENTIONED?

dan winters, Boulder, CO. USA

Posted By Dan C. Winters on March 20, 2008, 12:28 PM

You could also have mentioned other options for getting to Lhasa that would be less enriching to the Chinese government. One possibility is to fly from Kathmandu.

Posted By TonyW on March 20, 2008, 12:28 PM

You can't please all of the people all of the time. Keep up the good work, I love Budget Travel!

Posted By Amy T on March 20, 2008, 12:29 PM

Even if you try and ignore it, It will not just go away........

Posted By Elisa Mathews on March 20, 2008, 12:31 PM

Absolutely right to cover the train ride! And, without any disclaimers ethical or otherwise. Thus, no side is taken on an issue that is really none of our business. If one has a strong feeling, don't go there.

Posted By Leonard Foster on March 20, 2008, 12:32 PM

If there was someone living under a rock for the past 50 odd years who didn't know there was Chinese oppression of Tibet, then maybe that would have been worth noting.

Posted By theblueroan on March 20, 2008, 12:33 PM

You bet. Budget should know what's going on in the world and inform from an informed position. Not everything should be dictated by someone making money.

Posted By here24-7 on March 20, 2008, 12:34 PM

I concur with the poster who indicated that you should write with balance. Yes, this is a travel and tourism site and, yes, there should be mention of places where tourism helps the local economy even if the political climate is questionable. Though Budget Travel is not the conscious police, you are a source for parts of the world that may be new for us and by presenting a balanced view (Tibet: yes, they have a new rail system but they are still fighting with China for independence) you allow us to make our decisions on whether we should spend our dollars there or not.

Thank you -
Sac in Missouri

Posted By yogagirlinMO on March 20, 2008, 12:34 PM

You were correct in covering the Tibet rail road GOD knows how many lives it cost to build it and the very fact that Main Land China is useing the rail road to get more chines people to go there and settle.Tibet is a wonderful place to visit and the temples are beautiful, which are represented by Christians ,Muslums and Budist .Its not the 1st time China is trying to take complete control the last time it cost many lives, had Tibet not surrended it would have been disasterous .

Posted By Robert Schofield on March 20, 2008, 12:35 PM

Why stop at avoiding stories about places that are politically oppressed? Why not avoid stories about places that have large carbon footprints, that have people in poverty, that have meat in their diets, that aren't Christian, and so forth? Then rename the magazine Antarctic Budget Travel.

Posted By rich on March 20, 2008, 12:37 PM

China HAS "raped and pillaged" the sovereign state/country of TIBET ...
murdering thousands of un-armed monks/nuns/Tibetians for YEARS ... and NOW !!!
This is the PREamble of this article.

Posted By J. Loomis on March 20, 2008, 12:38 PM

You wern't wrong. You presented facts for people who need facts and those same people must THINK before they travel and make their own decisions about how they travel based on their own personal beliefs. In America, I was always taught it's a "free country" but the Feds prevent Americans from going to Cuba. I went anyway, using my own thoughts to do so, and got a fantastic education about reality and what's out there in the world. I got to see firsthand how Castro destroyed a nation and enslaved its people, and I was even free to break the law in going (which Cubans can never do) and I used my own judgement. The Cubans all were happy to see me, an American, and all welcomed me into their homes and I got to see how they suffer each day: isn't this what travel is all about? My visit wasn't political or government-related. I was a free person using my own thoughts to guide me in my actions; I think all travelers should go wherever they want and should do whatever they want and no politics should come into play. Next on my agenda is Iran and I don't care what Iranians think of my going there or of what other Americans think of my going, I want to see for myself what the world is made up of.

Posted By k on March 20, 2008, 12:41 PM

Budget Travel is a resource magazine for people who love to travel, not a world politics magazine. It is my belief that die-hard Free Tibet individuals and groups should be protesting to the USA government and corporations, which spend billions of dollars on PROC goods, investments, and aid, rather than Budget Travel.

Posted By Edward Ingham on March 20, 2008, 12:42 PM

I agree with all those who said you should write the article.

Posted By Fay on March 20, 2008, 12:43 PM

There are numerous methods by which a person educates themselves and no one media outlet can be relied upon to provide all pertinent information. I was intrigued by the story presented and found it to be an impartial travel article, as appropriate for a travel magazine. The political implications are something that I will add to my knowledge bank and act upon in line with my conscience. Had Budget Travel not printed this article, I would not have learned of this rail line, as it has not been mentioned in the various other sources by which I gather my information. We should all keep open minds and gather information from as many sources as possible so as Americans we can be well educated and speak and act knowledgeably. Thank you Budget Travel for the informative, well researched articles. Keep up the good work.

Posted By Judith on March 20, 2008, 12:43 PM

Greetings,
I think it is awesome and admirable that you even asked for our input. I am new to your site, but find it delightfully refreshing to be interactive with a travel service that has enough conscience to care about people and places in the world and not just about what we can "get" from them.
In this case, I have a close association with the Tibetan culture (through my Buddhist training) and live in a mountain community in northern California that has been visited and is well loved by many Tibetan Lamas. I also sponsor a young Tibetan girl who is a refugee form Chinese occupation and lives in India. That being said, I have a close connection with Chinese culture through friends, teachers and my spiritual practice as well. I think it is "we the people" - of ALL nations! - who have the most to gain by maintaining an open heart to each other in spite of the actions of forces that do not necessarily represent our values and ways of doing things.
Thanks for embracing the WHOLE world and for asking us to reflect. This, unfortunately, is not an isolated situation.
May all find peace and happiness soon.
Marie Mitchell
Mt. Shasta, CA

Posted By Marie Mitchell on March 20, 2008, 12:43 PM

Some day I would certainly like to visit both Tibet and China, but I wouldn't do it now. What with the dangerous condition in Tibet and the continued human rights violations in China and Tibet. I'm in favor of the recent boycotts of the Olympics in China also.

Posted By mvincent on March 20, 2008, 12:44 PM

Tibet is always a fascinate place for me, and I wish to travel there someday. Thanks for the article from Budget Travel. Recently, after studying the history of Tibet,I was very shocked to find out that Britian actually occupied Tibet prior to the WW II for its mineral resources for sometime. Then, no one complains and came to help the poor Tibetans, now that Tibet went back to China, why is there such a big fuzz?! My Chinese ancestor, Princess Wen-Cheng, Daughter of Emperor Jing-Liu Chi-of West Han Dynasty, was married off to King Song Zhan of Tibet around 160 BC. To show his love for the Princess, the Tibetan king built Putala Palace for her... One can see that China and Tibet are politically, historically, and culturally related.
Kayko Liu

Posted By Kayko on March 20, 2008, 12:46 PM

I think it's refreshing that a travel outfit would even consider the feelings of oppressed nations. I've read some of the comments about info /not info on this article. I agree with the person that stated that a balance could be obtained by providing info AND mentioning the plight of Tibet under a Chinese regime. I would like to see your travel service mention more about oppression situations or severe poverty situations in developing countries.
Tourists may never know the real poverty in the back lots.

Posted By J F on March 20, 2008, 12:51 PM

China should be boycotted for the human rights violations that occur there.

Posted By Chet Hepburn on March 20, 2008, 12:53 PM

I understand the conflict of covering this topic...I am a supporter of the Tibetan culture and peoples. I personally would not have given China any write ups on their train. If it had been myself covering the issue I would have wanted to take the opportunity to make people more aware of this terrible and tragic situation that has been going on for so long now. It is a tough call to make...support the Tibetan economy,but at what cost by bringing this train thru this untouched and ancient treasure of the world??? Unfortunately,from my experience,I know all too well that when we open up these places to the whole world they start to deteriorate and get destroyed-and quickly. I have traveled this entire country and outside it as well and have seen this first hand in as little time as 8-10 years. It is truly sad. These places tend to survive when they remain remote and not so easy to travel to. Unless the whole world pools together(like with a national park) to really preserve and maintain this beautiful place I fear that over time it will be destroyed and lost. We move on as a people and race..but lose our culture and heritage and sacred places.. Those people and places and beliefs are a part of all of us..our origins...

Posted By Sarah E Freeh on March 20, 2008, 1:07 PM

You were absolutely correct to generate this article. Traveling is just that...traveling! I find it hard to believe that people connect politics and many other individuals innate desire to see the world. Sure, politics are playing a role in Tibet right now and I believe that it is a shame, but people need to learn to disassociate the two. If you have some political diatribe to share, share it in a political blog because most people who subscribe to travel want to focus on travel. I thoroughly enjoyed the article and when things simmer down I would have no trouble getting on that train and enjoying the spiritual destination that Tibet is known for. Budget travel is simply offering the reader choices and options, hence my desire to read each and every destination I see in your articles. Politics belong elsewhere.

Posted By Bruce Lowe on March 20, 2008, 1:08 PM

Why wouldn't you mention the situation repression of the Tibetans by the Chinese? It really has a direct effect upon the traveler. You would advise someone not to drink water in a specific region if it would harm them. Traveling on the train to Tibet, a traveler could perfrom an action unknowingly that could cause a great deal of trouble. For example, what is a traveler brought in a picture of the Dali Lama and then gave it to a Tibetan child? What might the consequence be to the child holding the picture? Just a thought!

Posted By Carol Austad on March 20, 2008, 1:20 PM

Of course, you should report it. Anything less is censorship.

Posted By Marcia on March 20, 2008, 1:23 PM

Before any Americans get too self-righteous about China oppressing Tibetans better take a look closer to home. Consider how the U.S. Army overthrew the monarchy in Hawaii and Hawaiian culture has been undermined and distorted by Christian missionaries, not to mention tourism development where native Hawaiians occupy the bottom rungs of the enonomic ladder (when not appearing as hula-dancing exotics to attract business).

I've traveled in both Tibet and Hawaii, as well as Myanmar, Cuba, Egypt, Israel, and many other countries where humiliation, degradation, and even overt oppression are not unfamiliar daily occurances. I believe everyone should be free to go to these places to see and judge for themselves.

Posted By Dennis Cox on March 20, 2008, 1:24 PM

I agree with most of the comments above that I read budget travel for its travel information and not political news. It should be up to the individual whether they want to make politics and ethics a part of their decicion making in where and how they want to travel. I, for one, do not want to be told whether it's "right or wrong" to somewhere based on someone else' opinions on polticis.

I actually spent 3 weeks on a 4x4 land trip from China into Tibet with a Tibetan guide and circled Tibet right when the train from Qinghai to Lhasa opened up with its inaugural trip. I've also spent considerable time in China and many other modern "communistic" countries in the world. What kills me is many people make these comments without ever having been in Tibet or knowing the full history. Yes Tibet has been subjugated to Chinese rule for a long time - nothing new there. But does anyone know what kind of rule the Tibetan monks had over their own kind before? Do people know that monks enslaved others to build their temples in Tibet and that many were killed in the era before the Chinese came? Don't think there is only one side to every story. While it's true the Chinese have been trying to bring settlers to Tibet to get a stronger foothold - the governmentt does offer free education to Tibetan children and minorities. Many Tibetan arents do not allow their children to go because they don't understand the value of education and choose to have their children beg instead (not saying all but we certainly see enough of this there.) They take the money from the Chinese government that is alotted for books and school supplies and never send their children to school. It is their choice in the end - they aren't exactly forced to do so. Tibet is definitely changing but there are many who live in outlying areas whose lives have been unchanged for centuries and probably won't change for a long time to come. Their lives are totally centered around religion and they have no real concept of wealth and capitalism - unlike Lhasa where there have been major changes. There is a lot of controversy and news reports, but until you go there and see it for yourself - it's hard to say what one person thinks as oppression which may or may not be to someone else. While I may not agree with the entire situation, I do believe it's up to the individual to decide where they want to travel and their own responsibility to do their research.

I love Budget Travel and would love to continue to see travel and coverage to destinations without reservations. I do think it's refreshing to ask for reader opinions and it's comforting to know that our opinions and comments are taken into account.

Karen

Posted By Karen on March 20, 2008, 1:33 PM

First, I would like to know something about the political situation of the countries I intend to visit because I want to know how safe it will be to travel to that destination. Although, I do not need a full history lesson. Second, am I wrong to believe that improved transportation between countries will improve both countries' economy? Third, travel by foreigners and the information gathered by those travelers requires the individual countries to be more accountable to the world at large.

Posted By sally on March 20, 2008, 1:38 PM

I liked Budget travel best when Arthur Frommer was making commentary and not being afraid, as the current editors are, of taking a stand and being "political". I've been to the Dalai Lama's temple in Dharamsala for teachings, and have just returned from India, and am dissapointed in the Chinese propaganda about H.H.'s role and their claims about him. Anyone who hears himspeak or reads his or Thich Hnat Hahn's books will know that Buddhist thinking is for relief of suffering and non harming is the primary virtue.

Posted By Bill Jenkins on March 20, 2008, 1:39 PM

If you stop covering stories about countries that repress their neighbors then, I guess,we won't be seeing any stories about the U.S.

Posted By Brad Medeiros on March 20, 2008, 1:48 PM

Probably without meaning to, readers wanting you to avoid reportage on certain parts of the world are, in effect, asking you to play God with their information flow -- and mine.

A decision not to write about a destination could be applauded by some and condemned by others.

I think the best solution is for readers who don't like an article to scroll past it. I'd rather they not try to intimidate information sources like yours when I'm perfectly capable of evaluating what I read and how I will react to it.

Besides your self-censorship in one instance is no assurance that that self-censorship in another instance would be appropriate.

Posted By Jack on March 20, 2008, 1:51 PM

It is interesting how some people don't want to "mix politics and travel". Budget Travel is not responsible to inform about the politics of a county. However ,having the information about the politics in the same place as the travel information, could be a deciding factor for some people who are not informed until a situation heats up...if at all.

Posted By Amy Connor on March 20, 2008, 1:53 PM

You were right to publish the information on the train to Tibet. While I agree that China is wrong in its oppression and subjugation of Tibet, you are in the business of providing information for travelers, regardless of the nature of the political arena. People are not going to cease visiting China or Tibet because of the current political climate. You are just doing your job, and the myopic people out there who feel that you should be taking a political stand on this matter are all wet.

Posted By DennisD on March 20, 2008, 2:00 PM

Are they Nuts? Don't let it bother you. You did the right thing. I can decide my own politics without Budget Travel. Kepp up the good work.

Posted By Jack St Arnold on March 20, 2008, 2:02 PM

The best way and the only way this world will learn to appreciate how people in other countries live is to visit those places and see for themselves! We don't need every publication and news cast to be edited in fear of offending...we need to see it all, and read it all. Good work Budget travel, keep those stories coming.

Posted By Chrisi on March 20, 2008, 2:02 PM

You did absolutely the right thing. I turn to Budget Travel for travel information and guide. I don't expect you to be my conscience. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but to not do a story on Tibet because of someone's "moral" concerns amounts to censorship. Shame on those who complained. Why do they assume they're everyone else's "moral" police? Why do we Americans always assume we're on higher moral grounds than everyone else? There's plenty of injustice in this country. Should you advise people not to travel to Washington because of our own government's abuses?

Posted By st. louis on March 20, 2008, 2:03 PM

I didn't bother to read the article because I feel the train is a major example of Chinese cultural incursion and subjugation of Tibet. At the very least I feel Budget Travel should have included a sidebar mentioning some of the issues involving the political situation in Tibet, and the potential impact of the train on Tibetan culture. I think many of your readers are not aware of the politics of the region, and as a journal I feel it is a responsibility of Budget Travel to inform the readers of the potential impacts of their travel.

Posted By Gregory Gluck on March 20, 2008, 2:06 PM

I think that Budget Travel wrote like they should have about the train to Tibet. I agree with others who have posted that it is the travelers responsibility to read up on current events where ever they are traveling to. If Budget Travel included the politics of every country they mentioned there would be no room for travel information. I think that mentioning Tibet touched at a few nerves, but in reality the situation is no different than many other countries around the world. Had it been anywhere else I do not think there would have been as much of a debate. If you are looking for non biased travel advice see Budget Travel, but if you are looking for info on politics or current events find a news source.

Posted By Kristen M. on March 20, 2008, 2:16 PM

It's not your responsibility to right the wrongs of the world. I thought it was a great article on an exciting opportunity. Painful as it may be, Tibetan culture has been eroding due to Chinese subjugation, and perhaps your article encouraged a few to explore the cultural riches that remain. Any additional perspective is beneficial to Tibet's cause. You did the right thing in covering it.

Posted By Anthony on March 20, 2008, 2:21 PM

It was a great article, and well written. I do not expect Budget Travel to be my political advisor. The world is full of controversial places, depending on your political and emotional viewpoint. That's what choice is all about.

Posted By D.Giorgio, Solvang, CA. on March 20, 2008, 2:22 PM

I believe travel magazine and politic should be separate. If I want to read more about the political side of a place, I would have read it from elsewhere, not a travel magazine. Tho, I don't oppose the idea of mentioning a particular situation as a travel reference/precaution. I think providing different travel options to readers is what you do best, and also my reason of reading Budget Travel, therefore, nothing wrong with it. Tibet is indeed an amazing place to visit, and travelers should have the options and freedom to choose how they want to see/judge this place. The relationship and history between China and Tibet are complicated for centuries, and I hope whoever would like to comment on this issue, read up the history, or even visit the place before making any slop-sided political comments. By not publishing travel information will not enhance a better world, I am afraid this will just do the opposite, because being able to see the world with our own eyes is actually a key to a better world in my opinion.

Posted By Joann on March 20, 2008, 2:25 PM

You have to assume that people are going to do some research on their own to make certain a trip is going to be in line with their own morals, ethics, beliefs, etc. Should this month's article on the Big Sur drive mentioned that car emissions are killing off the redwoods? Or the feature on the Grand Canyon's Sky Bridge mention that the rim is now covered in haze because of dust (no doubt from 14-mile trips on dirt roads) and polution? C'mon. This is a travel magazine - and a darn fine one, Erik! - this isn't Time.

Posted By Dan in L.A. on March 20, 2008, 2:29 PM

I visited Tibet in 2004 and was told by several Tibetans about the coming train and their fear that the Chinese were building it to facilitate the emigration of chinese people into Tibet in an attempt to water down Tibetan culture and religious beliefs. I believe they were right. I also believe you were right to publish the article about the train which I read with great interest. I'm hard pressed to think of any reason why you would ignore such a major event of interest to travelers in the region. Certainly if the writer is aware of some of the political implications or potential dangers present, it is appropriate to also pass this information along to the reader. Then we are able to make our travel decisions in the most informed way possible. For the traveler, the train is just another way to get to Tibet from China. To ignore it just doesn't make any sense at all. By the way, your description of it didn't make it very enticing to this traveler. Good job!

Posted By Gary Seufert on March 20, 2008, 2:41 PM

I choose to not travel to countries that I believe restrict the liberty of its citizens. China is one of them. China invaded Tibet. There are other countries that I also do not plan to visit. I have no problem with articles as long as they are balanced. I am also concerned about safety, hygiene and the environment. All articles should reflect the world we live in, extolling the virtues of a destination, as well as the possible negative factors.

Posted By Richard Beekman on March 20, 2008, 2:41 PM

Travel is a very individual decision, and if a person had ethical, political, or moral objections to a country or a society-don't travel there. An article by Budget Travel on a more modern, convenient form of transportation in China is just that. A report to it's readers. Accept or reject it, but don't question the publication's freedom to write and publish the article.

Posted By Arthur Kelts on March 20, 2008, 2:51 PM

I appreciate your willingness to allow folks to express their opinion on this (or any) controversial issue. And, to ask whether we thought it was right or wrong demonstrates a level of respect for your customers' opinions not always evident in travel or other industries. Thank you for that consideration.

China, by the way, is a major human rights violator in the world. China's modern approach to Tibet runs counter to the centuries-old respect for their autonomous protectorate. Furthermore, to bestow the privilege of host of the Olympics on China further emboldens their disregard for the world's call for fairer treatment of its citizens.

It is definitely up to the individual to decide what is acceptable and unacceptable in the world and in business dealings. Beyond this, it is certainly respectable for a business to take conscientious stands on specific issues. It is up to the business to do decide if an issue is important enough to the owners and/or employees in order to include as part of the company's business mission.

Posted By Eric Reagan on March 20, 2008, 2:56 PM

I think you would be amiss not to report it. We all make our own decisions on where to go, how to go etc and it is up to us. If we do not know about these things how can we make a decision on it.

Posted By blakej on March 20, 2008, 3:06 PM

If we are to avoid being in all the places where we disagree with the political regime, many of us could not even live in the United States.......Turning a blind eye is never educational.

Posted By Molly Shannon on March 20, 2008, 3:07 PM

I traveled in Gansu province in China last year instead of traveling to Tibet. Gansu includes the town, Xia Hu, with the largest Tibetan monastery outside of Tibet. The train was closed, especially to foreigners, for several months.
I was glad to see you include information about Tibet. People can see the repression for themselves. It's not hidden. Large groups of Han people have been brought to settle in Tibet, esp. in Lhasa. The careful behavior of the Tibetan monks when they are around the Han monks, was another indication of uneasy relationships.
If more people visit places of questionable repression, more light shines on the problem and more people feel an emotional tie to the locale.
Yes, please cover situations like these. Besides, the train is incredible. A close friend took it and the onboard oxygen helped prevent altitude sickness.
I like Budget Travel. Please keep up the great work.

Posted By Susan Goodman on March 20, 2008, 3:15 PM

It is important for Tibet's economic development to have the infrastructure and the tourism resources that will allow them to be self-sustaining. It does not help Tibet's efforts to keep it isolated from the world. In fact, much of the information the world is getting right now on Tibet is coming from travelers who happened to be there when this all broke out. While the train to Tibet may bring some profit to the Chinese government, the Tibetans have much more to gain from it as it brings more travelers to see their plight (and to spend their tourist dollars, enriching the local Tibetan economy). Not only was it not a mistake to cover the train to Tibet, covering it is Budget Travel's small way of supporting Tibet's efforts.

Posted By Barb Strother, author of Living Abroad in China on March 20, 2008, 3:22 PM

It was a great article and we need to be informed of all activity anywhere.

Posted By Robert A. Hutchison on March 20, 2008, 3:29 PM

I think it was right for you to publish the article about the train. Unfortunately, at the time the article was written, and published, you could not have known that riots would erupt in Lhasa, and many Tibetans would be killed and disappeared,and that Lhasa is a powderkeg right now, a very dangerous place to be. Perhaps it would be wise to publish a few paragraphs of this news for the safety of travelers that may be planning to go there. JC

Posted By Joe Chandler on March 20, 2008, 3:30 PM

Let the whiners start their own magazine. I read Budget Travel to learn about different places to visit, not to study their political issues. Leave the political commentary (and censorship) for some other publication.

Posted By johnm on March 20, 2008, 3:35 PM

Well, let's see. Travel and tourism generate income in the manner of taxes paid to repressive govenments. They use these taxes to further repress their citizens. So, I think to fight against human represssion and to promote so called democratic principles the US parades, that for sure, we should not travel to or within the United States.

Posted By Jim Hibbs on March 20, 2008, 3:38 PM

I think it was right for Budget Travel to print this article. The magazine is about places to visit. It is up to the individual to decide it they want to visit it or not.

Posted By Frank Bush on March 20, 2008, 3:41 PM

Your magazine (virtual and physical) is about travel. I do not want to be censored - ever - about anything.

If you started censoring your coverage, then we may as well go back to the days when books were banned from the public libraries.

Posted By TH on March 20, 2008, 3:47 PM

You SHOULD cover the subject of the railroad to Tibet. If China is "subjugating" Tibet, as some writers claim, then the U. S. can be said to be "subjugating" Alaska and Hawaii as well. In fact, Tibet has been considered an integral part of Chinese territory for MANY years prior to the establishment of the U.S. as a country.
-- G. Pass

Posted By G. J. Pass on March 20, 2008, 3:50 PM

There will always be unrest in the world, unfortunarely that is the way it is. I am perfectly capable of deciding if I want to travel to Tibet or China or anywhere else. You can't stop living because some politician thinks he or she is stronger than the rest of us.

Posted By Claire Grace on March 20, 2008, 4:00 PM

Absolutely appallingly wrong. This train is designed for one purpose and one purpose only -- to facilitate the movement of Han Chinese into Tibet and to further the cultural genocide policy of the Chinese government. The construction of the trackbed was carried out without regard to environmental consequences (which have been documented), migratory routes of wild animals, or the displacement of Tibetan villages that had existed for centuries.

Not every "tourist" attraction should be promoted, and some cultural sensitivity is expected.

Posted By edrie on March 20, 2008, 4:09 PM

NO problem. You are just reporting.

Posted By john cross on March 20, 2008, 4:14 PM

The magzine has no obligation to alert the readers about political situation in Tibet.If one is smart enough to plan a trip to Tibet, I would hope he or she has done enough background work to ascertain whether it is safe for them to travel to Tibet or any other country. They should check also with US government to see whether it is ok or legal to visit any country.If one cannot do these normal inquiries, stick to Cancun, Jamaica, Aruba and other countries who cater to our culture and privide western comforts.---Sangi

Posted By Surendra Sangekar on March 20, 2008, 4:16 PM

The truth is the truth, which we should all no. Ignorance causes so many problems in the world. So, releasing of an article of truth is a good thing wether it is bad, or good news.

Posted By Chris Hutchison on March 20, 2008, 4:17 PM

Tibet has been part of present day China for nearly 60 years. Folks, upset over the balance of trade and the Olympics choose to make an issue now. If travelers don't like China, stop buying Chinese goods...don't fret over a long, dull train ride. Traditional Tibet leadership is by a man chosen as an infant as the reincarnation...very democratic. If I chose my travel destinations based on human rights vioilations, I would leasve the USA, never visit Israel, the middle east and all of Africa. China has historically had a claim to Tibet.

Posted By lawthomas on March 20, 2008, 4:32 PM

If people feel you need to educate us on China, please don't forget to mention ALL countries who subject their people to control - telling them where they can and CAN'T vacation. Also ALL countries who cheat in politics to get things their way - by manipulating the counts, not allowing people to vote (by rigging the voter polls), torturing innocent people for years - because they might know something, any of this sound familiar? Those governments who control the press to slant things so the public don’t know the truth. I was shocked to be ridiculed by people over “how stupid” the Canadian troops are – killing themselves with friendly fire – when I explained to these people that it was the US troops who killed the Canadians – they stopped laughing and were upset that they had no idea - we checked all papers and there was NO mention of who did it. People in glass houses (countries) should be careful what they accuse other countries of - yes the Chinese government has a long way to go - and are slow at doing it - but so do other "GOOD" countries have a long way to go to clean up themselves too. Unfortunately all of us have lots of secrets in our closet – so long as we keep other countries in the lime light – then maybe no one will look too closely at us.
A travel “magazine” should show us all the latest travel things – without having to explain what is going on the region. Especially hot topics like China and Tibet.

Posted By Mary Kay Klaus on March 20, 2008, 4:32 PM

The more informed the public is the better to investigate other publications, news programs, etc. Actual travel is the only way to see first hand what countries and their people are doing; however, some travelers really do not "see or hear" what is really happening...even in the U.S.

So I say make a short report and give credit to whomever or where the situation is taking place at the end of the article.

Posted By Jan on March 20, 2008, 4:34 PM

I read Budget Travel for the news about travel it contains. I read newspapers, watch TV, read books, etc. to gather other information including the political climate around the world. Having just come back from Africa I have another slant on news and politics. Continue as you are going, please.

Posted By Judi on March 20, 2008, 4:36 PM

Most people who follow travel news have known about this new train service for a long time and have been waiting for news about its start-up. Travel has always been one of the best ways of educating one's self about the rest of the world. Reading and travel are two things that should never be sacrificed in the name of expediency.

Posted By William Moore on March 20, 2008, 4:40 PM

I think it was fine to run the article, although I was very taken back by the 100% positive tone... not a mention the political issues the railway has caused. I don't think a magazine needs to be overly politicized to simply acknowledge the issues in the world and mention them. DONT be afraid to bring all aspects of international travel into the articles.

Posted By Barbara Brattain on March 20, 2008, 4:41 PM

As a university instructor and PhD student of political science/international relations, I am often dismayed and disheartened by how little American students know of the world (even how little they know of America!). While I agree with many of the previous writers that each individual should be able to determine for themselves what kind of travel they'd like to engage in, witout bias or interference, I do feel that as a publication that is counted on to provide intelligent travel advice, you have missed the mark on this one. Rather than providing readers with some of the political background necessary to make intelligent decisions when they travel, you seem to depict the relationship between Tibet and China (connected via this high speed train) as one of blossoming friendship rather than the reality of the political and financial isolation that China has subjected Tibet to. I do feel that the magazine could have kept its integrity as a "travel" magazine and still included the political realities of the situation without poisoning the article. Politics and travel often must mix and this is simply a reality that travelers must face. Rather than shying from the political realities of the countries we travel to (or that we are lucky enough to travel to), wouldn't we all be more enriched if we understood the context of the areas in which we have our adventures?

Posted By Andrea Mathie on March 20, 2008, 4:43 PM

Budget Travel is a travel mag, not a political one. You've pointed out a new way to get to Lhasa for all those people who don't want to sit on a shock-less bus through massive potholes for three days from Golmud. (Actually, between you and me, I loved that ride.) And although I can't imagine anyone not wanting to go through Kathmandu first, not everyone has the time. So this new fangled way to zip there just might bring more travellers to Tibet to see the oppression first-hand. And the more people truly appalled by it the better.

Posted By Kim J. on March 20, 2008, 5:02 PM

Keep on reporting, you (us) cannot hide our heads in the sand.Facts are facts

Posted By sam on March 20, 2008, 5:04 PM

In my opinion, you were wrong to highlight the Sky Train. Whether or not one agrees that Tibet is lawfully controlled by China (Tibetans certainly don't), there is no doubt that Tibetans have a separate cultural and religious identity. China is guilty of egregious human rights violations in Tibet and elsewhere.

The IOC turned its back on a long history of political neutrality by disallowing Tibet a place in the Olympic Games. Indeed, China should not be allowed to host the Olympics at all.

If corporations were willing to take a stand for justice, even if it meant its readers not knowing about the Sky Train, the world would be one step closer to peace.

Posted By Marie on March 20, 2008, 5:05 PM

I think in a case like this, the Chinese government is building the train to strengthen its hold on a historically autonomous if not always independent region - that makes this a political issue, not your coverage of it. Discussing travel to the Ivory Coast or Kenya or East Timor or the southern Phillipines, you would be obligated to mention social upheavals affecting travelers. If Germany under Hitler or Kaiser Wilhelm encouraged zeppelin rides in the Sudetenland or Occupied Poland to demonstrate their control over these territories, or the US banned travel to, say, Cuba, to assert our control over their economy, you could not promote travel on whatever budget without first paying attention to the political realities. Travel may feel apolitical to some, but it can never be amoral.

Posted By Steven Weiner on March 20, 2008, 5:53 PM

Tibet will regain its independence right after We give the US back to the Indians.

Posted By Bill Gerken on March 20, 2008, 6:00 PM

I think BT needs to be sensitive to politics when it publishes a story. Particularly when there are long-standing (4 decades) and well-documented human rights abuses as China has done in Tibet. Not that you shouldn't publish an article but perhaps you could get some input from various sources who might know what it could mean to the indigenous people of a certain region?

Posted By Jane Kelso Winter on March 20, 2008, 7:23 PM

Before retirement, I enjoyed a long career as reporter and editor (since the age of 15). I therefore have the perspective of a pre-modern journalist. As such, I recognize and strongly believe in a publication's ethical obligation to present ALL of the information available. In the case of the "Sky Train", your publication failed in its obligation to disclose the highly sensitive issues that must be taken into consideration in any discussion of Tibet. As it stood, the article was akin to an article on the beauty and ambiance of Gone With the Wind's Tara, without giving the reader an appreciation of the system upon which it was built. On balance, and given the manner and language in which it was presented, it would have been better to spike the article.

Posted By Bob Evans on March 20, 2008, 8:07 PM

You were right to cover it. Readers should not depend on a travel magazine for political analysis any more than I would go to a dermatologist to discuss a neurological disorder. Everyone here in this country is free to read, analyze and make up their own minds, to go, or not go, or go and see for themselves what is going on. Contact with outsiders helps break the chain of oppression.

Posted By Sallie on March 20, 2008, 8:58 PM

I, for one, am glad Budget Travel covered the new train service from Beijing to Lhasa. I wouldn't have found out about the exciting new way to see Tibet otherwise! And after all, isn't that why people subscribe to a travel magazine?

In this age of increasing global awareness, there are plenty of sources designed for up-to-date geopolitical information. Is it really necessary to rehash it in a family-friendly travel magazine in every article that touches a region with on-going or historical unrest and social problems, like one of those legal disclaimers that on one reads? And come on now, what travel destination does not have problems? Shall we debate the election year heat between red states and blue states, the on-the-fence "commonwealth" status of Puerto Rico, or the poverty statistics of Native Americans living on reservation lands?

One important aspect of travel is to see and experience things for oneself with an open mind. Knowing what transportation services are available makes that planning for that experience much easier. A travel magazine provides the info and the tools for travelers; it's no place for biased political commentary it cannot, in one to two thousand words surrounded by big glossy photos, discuss in complete detail.

Posted By Faye on March 20, 2008, 9:07 PM

If you read the appropriate newspapers of the day in London, Paris, Rome, and Cairo you'll see they said the same thing about the Suez Canal when it opened. Somethings just don't change. News goes on the news page. Editiorials go on the editorial page. And travel stuff goes in the travel section, for those few papers that still have one.

Posted By aztec69 on March 20, 2008, 9:07 PM

When we went to Myanmar (Burma) last year, our guidebook had a section called "Should you go?" with a list of pros and cons (examples: it's more difficult for a government to abuse the people if there are foreigners around; going there helps the local people economically; going there gives money to the government and in effect, finances their bad policies and deeds, etc.) It would have been approprate to have included a sidebar in your article with a brief description of the political scene in Tibet and the ethical issues involved with visiting.

I don't think that you can really separate politics and travel. It is impossible to visit Cambodia and Vietnam, for example, without being made painfully aware of their recent history of war. How can you visit the depressingly poor areas of Tibet without having at least some understanding of their history? Anyone traveling should have at least some understanding of the area in which they are going - socially, culturally and politically. The final decision on whether to go or not ultimately falls on the person, but responsible travel journalism should at least make people aware of challenges facing the country and ethical dilemmas for those wishing to go there.

Posted By Wendy on March 20, 2008, 9:16 PM

We are with Karen, because we went for five weeks in China, Tibet and Cambodia in June 2007. We have seeing everything in Llasa and glad we went when we did. Now the Polata will be close for three years for repairs. As she said the center is about religion, kids and monks are begging. The Sky train is to move the han Chinese into Tibet and modernize the town. The religious people won't change, but the outskirt of the center is changing. The small towns are living as they did many centuries ago. By the way the dancing lights in front of the Polata are beautiful. We have seing kids in a orphonage, they were well behaved and all the people we have met where very kind, they didn't have a mean face, but they were older that they look because of the altitude their lungs are three times as big as ours. The world is changing very fast and the next five years it will change faster as it did from the last twenty years.

Posted By Nicole on March 20, 2008, 11:01 PM

China has subjugated Tibetans, disenfranchised them from participating in their thousands years old economy, would like them to simply disappear off the map in China's imperialistic enterprises in this region. All for a diversionary tourist destination and expansion of Chinese Imperial territory. Tell this aspect of the story in your reporting.

Posted By Sheldon Weiss on March 20, 2008, 11:04 PM

You were right to cover it. Travel boycott being attempted by some left wing nuts of Burma (Myanmar) is completely ineffective. I just returned from 15 days there, going into all of the sensitive areas, and I was sure that my tourist dollars went to the people and they appreciated it. The more we Americans travel the more empathy we will have for these people and the more we will understand their plight. We may be able to shape our congressional delegations into a broader understanding of the issues.

Posted By warren little on March 20, 2008, 11:41 PM

The people of Tibet does not need the world to boycott Tibet. Travel to that country gives people jobs and boosts the local economy.
The world needs to begin to pressure China to TALK to the leaders of Tibet and come to a peaceful conclusion instead of shooting first. China is a big scary country but the World is a bit bigger.

Posted By Curt B on March 20, 2008, 11:45 PM

Budget Travel is a TRAVEL magazine---informing its readers of new information relating to travel--NOT a POLITICAL magazine! You provided us with an up-to-date report on the state of the Sky Train, about which I had heard many months ago in another travel newsletter. As adults, we make our own decisions about where to travel, when to go, and what to do once we are there. Thank you for the INFORMATION you provide, and for leaving out the political viewpoints!

Posted By Betty on March 21, 2008, 12:03 AM

The article should have contained enough information for travelers to make an informed decision. I don't feel it did this as I read nothing about the Chinese repression. I will not travel to China because of this, but I would travel to Tibet.

Posted By Anne T. on March 21, 2008, 12:07 AM

yours is a travel n tour site very nice of u 2 have given news about tibet,its china personnal problem how 2 handle its own policy within its country, why do the westerners bother about whats happening in china, russia or matter any other country, they have the policy of criticising other they should look into their own self

Posted By murtaza on March 21, 2008, 12:36 AM

Of course you were right to publish the info. Americans should be informed, and they can then make intelligent decisions. As to subjugation of Tibet, China saw to this in 1950. Yet, we hardly hear of this in news articles.

Posted By Annette Paris on March 21, 2008, 2:30 AM

Most travel magazines/sites present information in a very straightforward manner, including presenting a brief sketch of facts if an area covered may potentially be volatile or dangerous. When I look for travel information, I want to be honestly informed about what might be going on in my planned destination.

I don't think BT was wrong to present the information; the opening of the Qingzang railway is a mighty modern engineering achievement. The Chinese claim that no lives were lost due to altitude-related issues while building the railway - whoever posted above made it sound like hundreds of lives were lost in the construction. (That being said, the Chinese haven't said if anybody died for non-altitude-related issues, either.)

I will say I was a little surprised at the very positive tone of the article. Just a couple months before this article appeared, I had taken that train from Beijing to Lhasa, and quite enjoyed the ride, so I was interested to compare impressions. It's marvelous.

The opening of the railway was - and is - still regarded with controversy. There are the obvious concerns: environmental. Then there are the political concerns: China's "liberation" of Tibet; the Tibetans' concern of the emigration of Han Chinese to Lhasa and the rest of Tibet. There are also the economic concerns: the new railway opens up Tibet's interior to more tourism, as well as increased availability of goods, at lower prices, since they can now be shipped by train instead of less cost-effective truck or plane. But most people do not make the effort to fully inform themselves of both sides of the argument; they are simply joining on the 'Free Tibet' movement. (And I'm not saying the idea of a Free Tibet is wrong; but most people also don't realize that until the Chinese invaded, the Tibetans still had serfs. In the mid-20th century. Wrap your noggins around that, folks.)

It should not be a surprise to anybody that Tibet is having struggles with China; that has been part of the news for the past sixty years.

I think it would have been responsible to include a sidebar that would not only mention that the railway was/is a source of controversy, but more importantly, include some facts about altitude sickness. The train rises from Beijing's altitude of 140 feet, to Lhasa's elevation of 12,000 feet in under 48 hours, including at least one pass over 15,000 feet en route. It is important to warn people that they should be prepared to take Diamox (or similar) to help acclimatize, and that things like increasing one's water intake, and taking it easy for a few days, will help one acclimatize to the altitude.

However, in the end, travelers must take responsibility for their own actions and choices. I greatly enjoyed my time in Tibet and I would not have missed that trip for anything. The train made it easier and more comfortable to get to Lhasa - although I was certainly aware of what that train line meant. The Tibetans were wonderful people and seeing the conditions they lived in certainly changed many of my own perceptions.

One thing I didn't do while in Lhasa was to tour the Potala Palace. As much as I wanted to see it - and had some minor regret that I didn't take the tour inside - the Chinese have turned it into a museum and have tried to prevent the devout from spending much time there. (You get hustled through rather quickly, you aren't allowed to take photographs inside, and a slim number of tickets are sold each day.) So I skipped that part of our tour.

Posted By Cheryl L on March 21, 2008, 2:39 AM

Your magazine has made me aware of parts of the world I had never even heard of, but now have a desire to visit. You write from a travel viewpoint and I'll decide my own politics. Keep up the excellent articles.

Posted By Gene on March 21, 2008, 9:41 AM

I don't think it was wrong to cover the Sky Train as a new means of travel for those interesting in visiting Tibet. However, the article troubled me from the moment that I reached that page in the magazine. There have been several good comments already suggesting the article needed some perspective on the political situation in Tibet, and I have to agree.

To be blunt, the article may be typical of travel stories about new trains, bridges, or hotels anywhere. Without any perspective, however, it also seems blithely naive. This great engineering achievement of the Chinese people...completing Chairman Mao's dream of uniting Tibet with the rest of China...with an inaugural departure on China's National Day. Does that seem like a balanced, or even politically neutral, view to you? Or was the article meant to be ironic?

Some comments have suggested that a travel magazine should cover the logistics and let everyone decide on their own whether to travel to a place or not. This is a valid argument. But one needs information to make decisions, especially in troubling cases. Failing to note that the train service isn't just for the convenience of tourists, but is, in itself, an object of Chinese control in Tibet doesn't inform enough.

Posted By Doug on March 21, 2008, 10:44 AM

I have watched the development of the train from its beginning - quite an engineering feat. Let's remember that this is a travel magazine not a political one and keep its inclusion in proper perspective.

Posted By Chuck on March 21, 2008, 11:00 AM

I think you should remain a travel Magazine ...PERIOD! I want to know about everything that there is to know in the world of travel. I use your magazine as a resource.
Leave political reporting to others.

The only thing that I would expect you to print would be some travelers safety tips if needed.

Please ignore the "Political Correct Police" and continue to report on any travel related things anywhere in the world.

Thanks!

Posted By Michael Layton on March 21, 2008, 11:17 AM

The truth is the truth is the truth. Anyone who objects is probably too politically correct.

Posted By Gale Sitton on March 21, 2008, 11:17 AM

Not covering it is called "censorship". If we censor here, we are as bad as the Chinese.

Posted By Jackie on March 21, 2008, 11:44 AM

I support you decision to publish. I generally feel that it makes sense for you to report, truthfully, any new travel development. Certainly the opening of a new train line that allows easier travel between any destinations must fall into this category. To choose to not report it is to take a political stand, and I do not think that is appropriate for your mission as a magazine. That said, as many have pointed out here, a box or sidebar with information regarding safety or health considerations for any area that you are reporting on might not be amiss. These are legitimate travel considerations, and as such some sort of coding system alerting potential travelers to political or military conflict or controversy or brief succinct factual information might be reasonably included.

Posted By KB on March 21, 2008, 1:58 PM

Oui! Liked this good article. Were entitle to our own prespective Its only one way to visit Tibet I am sure their are other ways! Stark reality is Tibet is being oppressed by the China gov't. Let people make up there own decisions about travel! Otherwise their is duality in everything in Life. Really enjoy reading the magazine!
Thanx! Freedom Warrior 21st century style Leroy M.

Posted By Leroy Martinez on March 21, 2008, 2:01 PM

My daughters, ages 8 and 11, and I took the train from Chengdu to Lhasa last March. I knew about the situation between China and Tibet prior to our trip and wrestled with the ethical implications of our visit. Being in Tibet for the short week we were there changed us in a way I would never have anticipated. I suspect that many visitors, no matter how or why they go to Tibet will be simialrly moved by this unique country and its gentle people and, thereafter, inclined to stand with Tibet and her diaspora when the opportunity arises.

Posted By Carol on March 21, 2008, 2:37 PM

You did the right thing. The world won't get better by ignoring facts. Share information, not philosophy.

Posted By J Michael Bleck on March 21, 2008, 5:45 PM

Even if you did mention the problems of China and Tibet, I would go anyway because a lot of times things are made into a mountain from a molehill. I'd go and find out for myself, but I guess that's the very "adventure" in me. You did well in your article.

Posted By Barbara Peterson on March 21, 2008, 9:10 PM

I look to Budget Travel for my travel information not a political outlook nor opinion. If I am interested in traveling to a location, it is part of the research to learn those political issues before I go. I believe publications such as this should keep it light and report on the locations, not political issues. Things change very quickly in the world, so who is to say the information would be relevant when the reader reads it? I agree with you covering this and don't see an issue with the way the story was written.

Posted By Kathy on March 21, 2008, 9:29 PM

I agree with the writers who believe it is not up to Budget Travel to be our conscience, but to provide the most up-to-date and thorough travel information available. Politics is a very personal and volatile area to delve into, and I, for one, would only want it mentioned if it would affect my safety in travel to that country. Budget Travel is the best travel magazine on the market, and I trust the decisions they make in what to share regarding a country's political climate. I wouldn't change a thing about it.

Posted By Christine S. on March 21, 2008, 9:42 PM

does anyone remember the us boycotting the olympics when jimmy carter was president??? the beef was with the USSR at the time.
all i could think of was the tremendous waste of time and talent by all our athletes who gave up so much for their shot at representing usa and their sport. there is ALWAYS someone somewhere oppressing someone else. i'd prefer to make up my own mind at the time, thank you very much. and on a further note i was in kenya nov. 2006 and met wonderful people on both sides of whats become a heartbreaking issue now. i worry for the people that are not just faceless statistics in the news to me. my bags are always packed for the next turn around the bend.....pat s. ellicott city md

Posted By pat sherwood on March 21, 2008, 9:56 PM

Does anyone remember the US boycotting the olympics when jimmy carter was president??? the beef was with the USSR at the time. all i could think of was the tremendous waste of time and talent by all our athletes who gave up so much for their shot at representing usa and their sport. there is ALWAYS someone somewhere oppressing someone else. i'd prefer to make up my own mind at the time, thank you very much. and on a further note i was in kenya nov. 2006 and met wonderful people on both sides of what's become a heartbreaking issue. i worry for the people that are not just faceless statistics in the news to me. my bags are always packed for the next turn around the bend.....pat s. ellicott city md

Posted By pat sherwood on March 21, 2008, 9:58 PM

Of course you did the right thing by telling us about the new train. It is not your job to analyze the political ramifications of the train. Keep up the great work of informing us about travel and leave the politics to others.

Posted By Joanne Wolf on March 21, 2008, 10:55 PM

It's fine to cover the train to Tibet, however I think there is an obligation to at least mention the ethical concerns, or controversy. I think this is important in writing about other parts of the world as well.

Thanks for addressing this issue.

Posted By Naomi Steinfeld on March 21, 2008, 11:03 PM

I don't see a problem with mentionaing the Sky Train. Who, among us, does not know what's going on in Tibet? As travelers, we should make our own decisons on where we visit. I look to Budget Travel for expert info on travel, not incisive commentary on political issues. There are plenty of other publications for that.

Posted By Lori on March 22, 2008, 6:41 AM

Keep on doing what you are so good at. Nobody goes to a site called "Budget Travel" for a lecture on geopolitics or moral choices. What's next...How to boycot France because of its position on the Iraq War?

Posted By Daniel Reynolds on March 22, 2008, 12:59 PM

You were definitely wrong to cover this. Although you could not predict in advance the violence China would unleash in Tibet, their traditional abuse of human rights and the increase in the crackdown on dissent leading up to the Olympics makes covering this train, which has a very negative impact on Tibet, a bad call. You talk about leaving a tiny footprint, both environmentally and culturally, yet promote a tool for the destruction of traditional Tibetan culture.

Posted By Jim Freedman on March 22, 2008, 6:52 PM

I appreciate your including other ways to get to Tibet. I lived in China in 1996 and trains were not glamorous and I can't believe that has changed. But I sucked it up and the Chinese travellers seemed to appreciate no American griping but ready to accomodate it if expressed. Are things so different now?

Posted By Klarc on March 22, 2008, 9:36 PM

I am against publicizing travel to Tibet at this timme because I feel China is using the Olympics and associated travel to justify its long-term occupation of Tibet. China's claims that Tibet belongs to it are just plain made up.

Posted By Winifred on March 22, 2008, 10:55 PM

Oh for heavens sake, you are called BUDGET TRAVEL, not POLITICALLY PERFECT PLACES TO VISIT! For all those who complained, there's a new train to Tibet and Budget Travel covered it. They are there to help us with our TRAVEL plans, etc. I can't even think of any country with no political issues whatsoever. So what would be there for them to cover??? If you're so upset with what's happening in Tibet, complain to the Chinese embassy or form an organization to protest the ills of China. But leave Budget Travel alone!

Posted By Christine Go on March 23, 2008, 4:59 AM

I thought that past the age of three people knew that covering up their eyes didn't make things disappear. The train is there. It's something that some people may want to see. You are a travel magazine for people who want to see the world. Let those who want a 'sanitized' version of the world subscribe to the Disney magazine. Keep being the travel service that you are and leave the political editorializing to the pundits. I love you just the way you are.

Posted By Joan Engel on March 23, 2008, 4:47 PM

Yep! You were wrong, because the message was to 'normalize' and 'mainstream' this train in tibet, subtly encouraging
traveler to check it out- and line the pockets of oppressors. For the same reason, I don't want to see articles gushing about how 'beautiful' Burma
is-- not as long as they are killing monks. There is a TIMe and a Place for everything-- and NOW AIN'T THE TIME FOR PLACES LIKE TIBET and BURMA--later, probably, but certainly not NOW !!

Posted By sallie harrison on March 23, 2008, 9:06 PM

When it comes to world politics, Americans are among the least informed people on the planet. While many of the respondents here do know about the history between China and Tibet, do not assume that many of your American readers do. I believe it would be a great disservices to your readership not to inform them of political situations that may affect their travel plans. I expect Budget Travel to inform me about multiple aspects of the places I wish to visit and allow me to make decisions based on this information. If I am a person who does not wish to spend my money in places/with groups who committee human rights violations/atrocities then you have given me invaluable information that will affect my travel decisions as well as warned me about possible dangerous situations in traveling to such destinations.

Posted By Catherine Flynn on March 24, 2008, 1:36 PM

Yes, you were right to cover the Sky Train to Tibet! Where does partisan political redaction end? Should you reconsider covering any travel within the USA or Canada, simply because some Native Americans might consider the land to have wrongfully been taken from them by ethnic Europeans?

Posted By Edward W on March 24, 2008, 1:48 PM

This is an emotional issue for many. I was taught in law school to express facts and opinions and to acknwledge feelings without letting them be the horse ahead of the cart. If the fact is that there is a train that takes you from China to Tibet, then it is within your scope to write about it. It is up to each person to decide their emotionals and moral compass in using that information. Is it possible that some might ride the train to help with this oppression? Peaceful travellers without agendas might assist in the situation also. At any rate, I was not offended and believe in more tolerance of others' beliefs. Thank you for allowing a forum for this discussion.

Posted By Janeen on March 25, 2008, 8:48 AM

I think it was ok to include the info on the new train.
BUT, I think it would have been good to also include the info on what is happening in Tibet. I agree with comments from John and Sac in Missouri.
It doesn't have to be a big, long explaination, just a simple statement.
Also, the other comment from a person that suggested offering another way to get to Llasa from Katmandu.-- is a good suggestion too.
While you are a travel magazine - isn't travelers safety something that should be discussed and mentioned? Couldn't what is happening in Tibet have some potential effect on travelers safety??
I think all places that have stuff going on, should at least warrant a sentence or two.
Yes, you are not a news site, or the conscience police, but a brief mention of the facts of a locale can be helpful, and give important insight to a traveler and hopefully encourage them to go look it up for more info elsewhere.

Posted By Kelly on March 25, 2008, 2:17 PM

I here sincerely invite you all to came to China to see what the China is and What the situation in Tibet.You can see by your own eyes whether the human rights in Tibet or in other part of China is improving or bad.As a Chinese I am very sorry to hear that you all think China is a country with no human rights!That is a big misunderstanding.People can be mislead by media esay.

Posted By Alfred on March 25, 2008, 9:39 PM

Although Budget Travel is a traveling information source, part of the information needed by travelers is some indication of what is going on in an area that could affect their travel experience adversely. The sky train is a quicker way to Tibet. However, if the Tibetian culture is being destroyed even more quickly by the Chinese importing as many of their people to Tibet via the sky train as quickly as possible, is this train really neutral in it's importance in that area? The wonderful Tibetian culture is being destroyed by the incursion of the Chinese into Tibet. If the Chinese are successful in their goal of destroying the Tibetian culture and spirituality, then Tibet will become like every place else and will have lost the rich cultural and spiritual heritage that make it a special place to visit. By the way, the reason the Tibetian people do not want to send their children to the Chinese controlled schools is because the Chinese are destroying the Tibetian culture in the educational system that they have taken over in Tibet as well.

Posted By VICKI KNAPP on March 26, 2008, 5:24 AM

I just read the article in question, and it is a typical travel article. It's well-written, informative and short -- all good.
If the writer had chosen to include anything about the Tibetan/Chinese situation, he could have done so, but I feel that it would have changed the proper category from travel to politics.
People who read travel articles have access to political articles as well. If they don't know what's going on it Tibet and China, it's because they don't want to know.
Articles about Argentina don't necessarily have info about the beef strike, articles about Tucson don't necessarily include information about protested school closings.
If you read an article about a place, trip, mode of transport, etc., and you seriously consider going or doing, then do more research. Travel writers are not obligated to include political information, and to do so would change their genre.

Posted By Andrew on April 7, 2008, 12:57 PM

Tibet is a place in the sky. It is one of most difficult places to get to. There is rare arrable land up there. People of Tibet are very slow going, very religious and nice people, but when people from metropolitan cities go visit them, they want them to be like them, eat like they eat, drink coca-cola. I think it is not fair. Even linking Tibet with rail is a step in the wrong direction. But supposing Tibet is a free country and not on good terms with China, how miserable poor souls would be. Just think about it,

Posted By B K Minhas on April 14, 2008, 8:53 AM

Hi, not "several readers". You see, English is not a difficult language for all Chinese. So, many Chinese(escpecailly those who were born in or after 1980s)can read English knew what CNN is showing themselves in front of whole world of people except themselves now, then they will tell they know from CNN those who did not know what's English and who thought Chinese language should be widly used by the world.
Nowadays in China, if you talk any about CNN, he will tell you "no. Don't be such CNN" no matter what you are going to talk.

For the rail, some guys wrote "it cost many lives". What are you talking about? Is it necessary that lives always are cost in your country while you are building??????

Posted By da.vi on April 19, 2008, 1:07 PM

I think it's the job of a TRAVEL magazine to report on traveling and not political issues. People use travel as a means to understand, experience and FEEL a country's essence versus just having an opinion dictated to them. Kudos to Budget Travel for making it fun, affordable and practical to spend your free time exploring!

Farrah Nayka Ashline
www.Potenzential.Com
www.HeartacheHelper.Com

Posted By Farrah Nayka Ashline on May 12, 2008, 1:51 PM

It is a very disappointing and irresponsible article.

Posted By Allison Thomas on May 12, 2008, 3:35 PM

I agree with the antagonists. The train is actually being used by China to move thousands of Han Chinese each week to Tibet, with the ultimate goal of inundating the Tibetan people more than they already have. The Tibetans already can't get decent jobs, because the Chinese immigrants have first options. And most tourists hear little if anything about the facts, because tour guides--if you have a group larger than 4--are either Chinese or Tibetan with a Chinese "assistant" to be sure tourists hear only the Chinese story of "liberation."

Posted By Andrew M. Johnson on May 12, 2008, 4:15 PM

Budget Travel is a TRAVEL magazine, not the political editorial section of the Washington Post. You are right to focus on the travel information to Tibet. Besides, the more foreigners travel to Tibet, the more contact with the outside world the Tibetans can have, the more pictures and inside stories can be brought to the outside world. Therefore, the more likely the Chinese government will be subjected to outside pressure to ease up their political oppression

Posted By kuo liang yu on May 14, 2008, 1:42 AM