Well, I finally made it into Tibet after my flight was delayed for 2 consecutive days due to a "sandstorm". I did think it strange that the bad weather was delayed by a sandstorm and just put it to bad english translation by the Chinese staff at the airport, as it's winter and they probably meant "snowstorm". Almost 2 1/2 hours until we landed did I realise when I looked out the aeroplane window that the land of Tibet was very barren and dry. It was definitely, well most likely, a sandstorm that had caused the delay.
Danny and I checked into Phuntsok Khasang Internation Youth Hostel (www.tibetinn.cn), which was decorated with Tibetan artwork and motifs. It also looked like a backpacker's quarters with writings all over the walls, leaving messages of what experiences were had in Tibet, with some not so pleasant. There was a message that read "I don't like Tibet because my bike was stolen" or the other, "I was forced to come to Lhasa". Generally, most of the writings were positive, with many saying they'll return or even pasting a photo they took around Tibet, illustrating how great of a time they had. I don't really know why I never contribute to these things, I just find them fascinating to read.
The hostel itself isn't bad. It has a reasonable hot water system, self-laundry facility, bar & restaurant, internet (connection is tempremental), roof top seating area overlooking the Potala Palace and movie/dvd room. What I have found is the staff is not very friendly. I think we were very spoilt at Sim's Cozy with the friendliness of staff and well planned out hostel catering for backpackers.
