Everest again, Maybe
Yesterday we had the deepest fluffy powder snow here in Chamonix, champagne powder, and yet here I am packing for Nepal.
The Chinese government withdrew all permits to climb on the Tibetan side of Everest recently, and a week ago persuaded the Nepalese Minister of Tourism to do the same on the south side. This late decision will (if it remains unchanged) be disastrous for the hundreds of Sherpas who depend on this work for their their living. A quick calulation indicates the Nepalese economy gains around 5 million USD from the Everest expeditions. Why did the Chinese do this and why did Nepal go along with it?
The short answer is the Chinese are paranoid that the Olympic torch will be greeted on the summit of Everest by a Free Tibet flag, and the Nepalese, well, there is the general confusion of the impending elections on 10 May added to this is the Chinese investment in Nepalese hydro schemes.
At this time the Ministry look like they may revise the decision, and so here we are, packing for Everest again, wistfully looking out at that inviting powder and rather envious of those friends who have the good sense to stay put in Chamonix.