Recently updated on June 12th, 2020 at 04:26 pm
Dating back over 2,000 years to the Qin dynasty, the Chinese zodiac is an intrinsic part of Chinese culture. It’s based on a 12-year cycle, with 12 animals used to represent the years. To celebrate the Chinese New Year (Year of the Rat) on 25 January 2020, we’ve chosen the best travel destinations for each Chinese zodiac sign. Whether you’re a free-roaming horse or a fun-loving monkey, we’ve got the ‘sign’ you’ve been waiting for to pick your next holiday destination.
Year of the Rat – Argentina
1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
People born in the Year of the Rat are clever, curious, and highly resourceful. Energetic rats like a lot of variety on their holidays and are charming and social, so we’re sending you to Argentina.
You’ll love the seductive capital of Buenos Aires where you can learn to tango or watch a fiery football game. There’s also something different to do every day, from the jungles of the Iguaçu Falls to the icy peaks of Patagonia. It’s your year in 2020, so make it a great one!
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Year of the Ox – Norway
1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
The hardworking Ox prefers quiet and calm holidays. Your independent and resolute nature makes you perfect for longer trips, while your love for nature often takes you off the beaten track.
If you’re craving some time spent in peaceful contemplation, we suggest taking a trip to Norway. You’ll find solace in the stunning landscapes, from the dense forests to the towering fjords.
Year of the Tiger – New Zealand
1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
People born in the Year of the Tiger are confident, passionate, and ambitious adventurers. As resilient risk-takers, they’re well-suited to an intrepid holiday where they can act on their love for the unconventional.
We’re sending you to New Zealand, an adrenalin playground filled with daring activities. You can go bungee-jumping, skydiving, glacier hiking, whitewater rafting, and even take a ride on the world’s biggest swing.
Year of the Rabbit – Georgia & Armenia
1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
Rabbits are intelligent and sincere, and their patient and compassionate nature make them excellent travellers. The sensitive Rabbit also loves exploring the history, art and culture of the places they visit.
With some of the world’s most ancient histories and famed hospitality, we’re sending you to Georgia and Armenia. Rabbits will most appreciate the rich culture and friendly locals found in these neighbouring countries.
Year of the Dragon – China
1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
The powerful Dragon is the only mythical creature of the Chinese zodiac signs. Those born in the Year of the Dragon are strong and courageous leaders, with a love for adventure and romance.
We’re sending you to your spiritual homeland of China, where you’ll feel at home amongst the soaring cliffs and ancient ruins. Venture into the misty mountains and you might even find your dragon’s lair.
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Year of the Snake – Thailand
1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013
The graceful Snake is wise and intuitive, and those born in the Year of the Snake are often introverted, yet charming people. Snakes prefer the finer things in life and need a peaceful place of luxury to unwind.
We’re sending you to the mecca of tranquil beach luxury: Thailand. With lavish retreats and stunning coastlines, you’ll be able to recharge on private beaches or go walking through tropical jungles.
Year of the Horse – Tanzania
1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Those born in the Year of the Horse are warm-hearted and high-spirited. Horses are easygoing and likeable and while they’re great in social situations, they love their freedom.
They’re also hard workers who often deserve a break, so we’re sending you to Tanzania. You’ll love exploring the vast plains and soaring mountains, and you’ll feel right at home watching the wildebeest leaping through the Serengeti during the Great Migration.
Year of the Goat/Sheep/Ram – Costa Rica
1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
Goats (also known as the Year of the Sheep or Ram) are intelligent, sensitive, and compassionate. They love to socialise and their sweet nature means they make friends wherever you go.
We think you’ll love the laid-back pura vida lifestyle of Costa Rica and the country’s commitment to sustainability. You’ll adore the fresh air, beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife, and you may even feel inspired by the country’s fantastic conservation programs.
Year of the Monkey – Colombia
1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
The cheeky Monkey is the natural explorer of the Chinese zodiac signs. They’re witty, confident and curious, and are usually comfortable wherever they go. Monkeys are high energy with a great sense of humour, so we’re sending you to Colombia.
You’ll adore the playful Colombians and the country’s upbeat vibe. Hit the dance floor and learn to salsa, or get outside and enjoy the colourful cities and exciting landscapes. Adventure awaits!
Year of the Rooster – Japan
1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
The clever, hardworking Rooster is the perfectionist of the zodiac. They’re brave and confident, yet observant and deep thinkers. Roosters love order, so we’re sending you to Japan.
Like the Rooster, the Japanese are famed for their hardworking and efficient nature. You’ll love the immaculate train system and the impeccable gardens, while your adventurous streak will take you exploring to the heights of Mount Fuji.
Year of the Dog – Canada
1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
The loveable Dog is loyal and sweet, and the natural justice seeker of the Chinese zodiac signs. They’re also playful and active and love getting out into nature, so we’re sending you to Canada.
You’ll love the friendly Canadians and will relish the chance to explore the great outdoors. Stretch your paws with a long hike through the mountains and lakes of the Canadian Rockies and learn about the history and culture of the First Nations people.
Year of the Pig – Scotland
1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Those born in the Year of the Pig are kind, honest, and generous. They’re easy-going and friendly, bringing joy wherever they go.
We suggest heading to Scotland, where you’ll receive a very warm welcome and fit right in with the fun-loving locals. You’ll love sharing a delicious meal in a local pub, dancing to traditional folk music, and listening to thrilling tales of the Highlands.
What’s your Chinese zodiac sign? Have you found your perfect destination for the Year of the Rat in 2020? Let us know in the comments below….