Some more information for independent traveler
The option that i had been given for traveling to Tibet was to join a tour... which is really not appealing.
However, the platinum desk came back with some additional clarification. The St Regis has a travel agent on premises. They can design an itinerary for you and take care of the visa requirements. Probably the easiest way to secure the Travel Permit.
Here is the extract from Platinum Desk:
"You can Fax or Scan these supporting to us for apply process; our sales
colleague will contact our partner TA and try our best to assist you.
Our fax No. is 0891-6954138. When the Tibetan Permit has approved, we will
send the original copy to you
There is a tour agency at St. Regis itself, named Snow Pandy. Contact person
is Mr. QiongDa and he will be able to arrange a tour itinerary for you."