The controversial Olympic torch has been causing chaos wherever it goes, but the proverbial shit is really set to hit the fan when it reaches the Tibetan capital Lhasa in June. In an attempt to prevent protests, the government has sealed Tibet off from foreign visitors whilst the torch ascends Everest, and the ban will continue over the summer. In the meantime, you can still get a taste of Tibet thanks to the net.

Seamus Keogan journeyed through Mongolia and China last year, taking a train through the Himalayas to reach Lhasa. In this TravelBlog entry, he explains the background to Tibet’s occupation and explores the capital before moving on to Everest Base Camp. Browse his blog and photos for a vivid impression of the region.

Also take a look at the ‘Hacking the Himalyas’ series of broadcasts, photos and blog posts that technology guru Xeni Jardin made back in 2006. Here at STA travelbuzz we try and show how social media tools can enhance and even revolutionise the way you travel, so we loved Xeni’s investigation into

how Western “hackers” are building low-cost communications networks to bring phone and Web service to displaced Tibetan refugees — and how native peoples are trying to hold onto their culture in an interconnected world.

Surely it will prove increasingly difficult for governments to keep places isolated as the web opens ever more opportunities for communication and collaboration?