Tibet is now under a news blackout

While I believe that travel brings you closer to the locals rather than the government, this type of behavior by the Chinese government does not bode well for my interest in traveling there.

I would argue for a boycott of the 2008 Olympics. A message needs to be sent to the Chinese government that their appalling human rights abuses will not be tolerated by the rest of the world.

If you plan to travel to China, travel outside of the Olympic window and be sure to support the people. Eat from the local markets. Stay in non-chain hotels. And buy handicrafts direct from the source.