Discover Your Ideal Travel Destination Based on Your Chinese Zodiac Sign
An ancient Chinese myth states that the world’s first god – the Jade Emperor – designed the zodiac. The 12 most auspicious animals held a great race to go to the emperor’s party, and it was decreed that the animals would be placed in the zodiac in the order in which they arrived. High jinks ensued as each animal played to their natural strengths in a bid to get there first.
The rat used its wits and speed to win the race and was named first in the zodiac, with the loveable pig, who had been distracted by delicious treats along the way, finishing last; a 12-year zodiac cycle was created, with each year corresponding to one of the animals.
People born in that year are said to take on characteristics associated with its zodiac animal. Furthermore, every time ‘your year’ (known as běnmìngnián, 本命年) rolls around, it is believed to be bad luck for you, with several superstitious activities recommended to combat ill fortune.
If you’re not sure what your Chinese zodiac is, check your sign using a calculator tool. The Chinese zodiac follows the lunar calendar – the year starts at Chinese New Year and the dates shift annually – so if you were born in January or early February, be aware that you might actually fall into the zodiac year before your birth year according to the Western calendar.
Whether you’re a trustworthy pig, a cheeky monkey, or a daring dragon, read on to find out where you should travel based on your Chinese zodiac sign.
Pig – Ireland
🐷 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Lovely pigs are trustworthy, curious, and easy-going. You’re superb planners and feel at home almost anywhere. Being so trusting, you should travel somewhere you’ll receive as warm a welcome as you’d extend, and there’s nowhere more hospitable than Ireland. Your optimistic attitude and ability to have a good time almost anywhere will fit right in with the fun-loving locals in the Emerald Isle. As the Irish say: céad míle fáilte – one hundred thousand welcomes!
Dog – Colorado
🐶 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
Like their real-world animal counterparts, people born in the Year of the Dog are loyal, sweet, and loveable. They prefer a quiet life and enjoy the company of a few good pals rather than solo trips. Dogs are creatures of simplicity and enjoy being active and playful outside, so a friend-filled getaway in the Colorado Rockies would be perfect for you. Grab a scenic camping spot or cozy rustic cabin and take your pals for a long mountain walk.
Rooster – Namibia
🐔 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Though some may see your sign as a bit cocky, dear rooster, we prefer to recognize you as brave and self-confident. You dream big but are organized enough to see those dreams through to fruition, with a carefree streak that craves adventure. A road trip around Namibia will suit you just fine: sleep under the stars, explore wide deserts, witness wildlife around watering holes, and awaken like a true cockerel to watch the sunrise over sand dunes.
Monkey – Florida
🐵 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
Like China’s most famous mythical figure, the Monkey King, you have a mischievous side. You’re witty, curious, love a good laugh, and perceive learning as an exciting experience. Therefore, child-at-heart monkeys should head to Florida, where your inner kid can play in amusement parks, surf, and swim, while thrill-seeking monkeys can zoom through the Everglades on an airboat tour, or dance the night away in Miami.
Sheep/Goat/Ram* – New Zealand
🐐 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
Sheep are intelligent, social, and stylish. Your natural habitat is being surrounded by greenery and fresh air, and like your ovine counterpart, you prefer traveling with friends and making new ones. You’ll love New Zealand’s crystalline air, gorgeous mountains, and tidy cities filled with charming locals to befriend. With 30 million sheep to just 4.5 million people in New Zealand, you’ll feel right at home.
*A word about the sheep: the Chinese word 羊 yáng translates to Caprinae, the family of bovids that includes goats, sheep, and ibex, causing some confusion as to exactly which animal represents this sign. Take your pick!
Horse – Novi Sad, Serbia
🐴 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Likeable and warm-hearted, horses thrive in social situations. You find energy at big events and love being around other people; you’re also a creature of strength with an unexpected wild streak. Therefore, a visit to offbeat Novi Sad, which hosts Serbia’s largest festival (and one of Europe’s coolest), the Exit Festival, could be just what you need. Enjoy bands playing on 16 different stages, zip-lining, soaking up the crowds, then explore the hidden corners of this charming Balkan town.
Snake – Senegal
🐍 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013
Known for your wisdom and intuition, you are an artistic type and an enigma, enjoying both peace and quiet while also reveling in luxurious experiences. A visit to Senegal offers a mix of historical architecture, boutique hotels, and busy local markets, alongside a vibrant capital city, Dakar, rich in creativity and home to the Dak’Art Biennale of Contemporary African Art. For solitude, the vast parks and quiet sandy beaches await your exploration.
Dragon – Zhangjiajie, China
🐉 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
As the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac, dragons are powerful leaders who love being active. You’ll appreciate visiting a place with romance and adventure, so we suggest your spiritual homeland: China. Experience the remarkable karst peaks of Zhangjiajie in Hunan province, where a sense of wonder will fulfill the adventurous spirit within you.
Rabbit – Iran
🐇 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
Though your appearance may seem soft and fluffy, you possess a great sense of humor and attention to detail. Iran is a treasure trove of kindness and architectural wonders that offer endless cups of tea and warm smiles waiting for your arrival.
Tiger – Guyana
🐯 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
Restless tigers are adventurous, excitable, and passionate. A venture to lush Guyana, one of South America’s smallest countries, will satisfy your cravings for the unconventional. Delight in the beauty beyond its economic struggles, whether navigating its jungles or exploring the vibrant streets of Georgetown.
Ox – Appalachian Trail
🐂 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
Steadfast and excellent planners, oxen are detail-oriented and perfectly suited for long journeys. You enjoy the quiet life, making slow travel perfect for you. Therefore, hiking the Appalachian Trail offers an epic adventure through 14 states, with a journey that typically spans five to seven months, ideal for your contemplative nature.
Rat – Lima, Peru
🐀 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008
Clever, resourceful, and curious, those born in the Year of the Rat crave variety. Your energetic nature, as the first animal in the zodiac, symbolizes new beginnings. We suggest a visit to Lima, Peru, specifically the eclectic Barranco neighborhood filled with night markets, street art, cafes, and vibrant nightlife—ensuring energetic rats will never run out of exciting things to do.
