The Chinese Government’s recent announcement that it has “re-opened Tibet to foreigners” may leave the impression of free and unfettered access to Tibetan areas. The reality is quite different. Access to Tibet was already tightly controlled prior to the near total lockout that followed the wave of protests beginning in March last year. Today’s controls are unlikely to be any less restrictive

In addition to a Chinese visa, would-be visitors also require a special permit to enter Tibet. Permits are granted only to those who join an approved groups tour. Independent travel in Tibet remains almost impossible, so too does travel beyond the few prescribed tourist routes. Foreign journalists remain barred and controlling access to sensitive areas remains a critical component of the Chinese Government’s campaign to hide the reality of its oppressive policies in Tibet and convey a false sense of stability and contentment to the outside world.

Asia News: Beijing’s Imaginary Tibet Re-opens to Foreign Tourists
A special permit is still needed to travel to Tibet and the ban on foreign media remains. Tibetan prime Minister in exile says Beijing is lying about Tibetans’ prosperity and happiness in order to hide the cultural genocide that has been underway for decades.

Times Online: Beijing reopens Tibet For Tourists After Fears Of Rioting Ease
Signalling that the risk of anti-Chinese unrest has subsided in Tibet, Beijing has decided to reopen the Himalayan region’s soaring mountains and gilded temples to foreign tourists.