Assuming (I know - a big assumption!) that the situation in Tibet relaxes and travel in that region becomes possible may I ask for your opinions on the possibility of entering China from Mongolia at Erenhot, with all the correct documents and even a drivers license, perhaps on a short guided tour with official guide but then dispensing with all that and simply traveling independently to the Taklamakan before heading south to cross into Nepal at the Friendship Bridge? (if it's open in a year or two!)
Alternatively, if Tibet stays closed, exit China via the KKH.
I will be in a truck and my idea of China in the western provinces is empty spaces, few cops but the occasional check point. I'm not too concerned about being "legal" but would not want my truck and its contents confiscated. Really, my only concern is that I don't get too much hassle from officials that I can't handle - I just want to wander at will.
p.s. is it just me or do Google Maps leave out the roads in Tibet whereas MSN maps do not...?
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