A personal account is given of the most notable developments in lymphatic mapping that were discussed at the international conference "Sentinel Node 2000", held in December 2000 in Santa Monica. The latest advances in tracers, imaging, instrumentation and radiation are first outlined. Thereafter, techniques, results and controversies with respect to melanoma, breast cancer and other cancers are discussed. It is concluded that lymphatic mapping is quickly gaining momentum. The technique that is best used for lymphatic mapping is well established in melanoma but not in breast cancer. The results of large randomised studies are awaited in both these diseases. Gastrointestinal cancer is the main new focus.