GLOBAL NOMAD// For the Independent Female Traveler

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most popular treks in Nepal — perhaps in the world — despite the fact it takes three weeks to complete, if you’re lucky. The 300 km circuit follows ancient trade routes between Nepal and Tibet that have been in use for well over 1,000 years — and it’s a trek that’s relatively easy to do on your own. To read the full story, click here.

Photo Copyright @ 2010 VH Media

You don’t have to be a religious zealot or history buff to appreciate the significance of Davit Gareja in the former Soviet republic of Georgia. The ancient cave monasteries, which date back to the 6th century, literally lie on the border between Georgia and Azerbaijan — at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East and Asia. To read the full story, click here.

Photo Copyright @ 2009 VH Media

The Kiwis call it tramping — but whether you refer to it as tramping, trekking or hiking, New Zealand is one of the best places to do it in the world, particularly as we head into the Southern Hemisphere’s summer season. If you’re a fan of the Lord of the Rings movies and want a chance to experience Mordor for yourself, check out the Tongariro Crossing — considered New Zealand’s best day walk — or continue on to do the Northern Circuit over four to five days. To read the full story, click here.

Photo Copyright @ 2009 VH Media

If you’re traveling to northern China, you probably want to check out the Great Wall — you, along with hordes of other tourists. In Beijing, most tourists head to Badaling, the most accessible (and crowded) section of the Great Wall, which has also been extensively renovated — if you’re looking for authentic charm, this isn’t it. But if you plan to trek the Great Wall, you may get to experience it in relative isolation (particularly during the off-season) if you organize a day trip to trek along a 12-km section of the wall from Jinshanling to Simatai. To read the full story, click here.

Photo Copyright @ 2009 VH Media

Years ago when I first visited Ton Sai Beach in Thailand’s Krabi province, it was considered off the radar. Now, tourism has increased dramatically, and Ao Nang — once a quaint fishing village — is like a mini Ko San Road in Bangkok. The tsunami that wiped away beach bungalows at nearby Railay Beach in 2004 has led to the development of sprawling high-end resorts, but fortunately, Ton Sai Beach has retained much of its budget backpacker charm. To read the full story, click here.

Photo Copyright @ 2009 VH Media