Did you know your birth year might reveal insights into your personality, career, love life and maybe even travel preferences?
The Chinese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by one of 12 Chinese zodiac animal signs. Legend has it that the Jade Emperor called all the animals to a feast; the animals were incorporated as zodiac signs in the order the zodiac animals arrived.
To celebrate the Chinese New Year (Year of the Dragon) on February 10th, 2024, we’ve picked the best travel spots for each Chinese zodiac sign. Whatever your zodiac animal — whether you’re a wild Tiger, a happy-go-lucky Monkey, a wandering Horse, or a bougie Snake — we can help you book your next trip.
By the end of this article, you’ll learn where to travel based on zodiac sign and how to use your Chinese zodiac sign to:
- Discover travel destinations that match your personality and interests.
- Gain insights into your ideal travel experiences based on your Chinese zodiac signs.
- Enhance your travel planning by aligning trips with your zodiac signs.
Ready to let the Chinese zodiac choose your next trip?
Summary of Suggested Travel Destinations Based on your Chinese Zodiac Sign
- Rat People: Explore vibrant cities like Tokyo and New York for their quick-witted minds.
- Ox People: Find joy in the natural wonders of New Zealand and South Korea for their strong-willed nature.
- Tiger People: Crave adventure in the wilds of Kenya and the Australian Outback.
- Rabbit People: Enjoy the finer things in life with slow travel through France and Italy.
- Dragon People: Rediscover China or visit stunning landscapes in Iceland.
- Snake People: Immerse in the rich culture of Japan.
- Horse People: Explore the great sense of awe as you gaze over the Sacred Valley in Peru.
- Sheep People: Relax in the golden beaches of Greece and the lush hills of Mongolia.
- Monkey People: Enjoy the diverse wildlife of Costa Rica and the playful energy of Brazil’s festivals.
- Rooster People: Experience the Great Barrier Reef in Australia or the splendor of Fiji.
- Dog People: Seek travel inspiration in the food-loving culture of South Korea.
- Pig People: Discover more travel inspiration in the artistic hubs of Spain and the USA.
Rat
Born in the Year: 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2020
The Rat is the first animal of the zodiac signs in the 12-year cycle. Chinese legend says the Rat hid in the ear of the Ox at the party meant to determine the order. Then, the Rat jumped down to take first place.
In Chinese zodiac, the Rat represents spirit, wit and flexibility. Cristiano Ronaldo, born during the Year of the Rat, certainly seems to embody the ethos.
A quick-witted Rat would be right at home in a travel destination like Japan or New York. That adaptability comes in luck for those born during the Year of the Rat, as they explore a different culture.
Ox
Born in the Year: 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2021
Ox people are known for diligence, persistence and being a faithful friend. People born in the Year of the Ox are tireless workers who respect traditional ideas. Does Barack Obama feel like an Ox to you?
Students with an Ox Chinese zodiac symbol are perfect for travel to rugged natural travel like New Zealand and South Korea, where the rolling hills and lush scenery suit their love of the outdoors.
Tiger
Born in the Year: 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
Tigers in Chinese zodiac are known for their bravery, competitiveness, and unpredictability. They are natural leaders and crave adventure. Does that sound like Mr. Beast born 1998?
A great travel destination for Tigers is Kenya, where they can experience safaris and explore diverse wildlife. Another great choice for our “Tiger Kings” is Australia where the Outback offers vast landscapes and unique adventures.
Rabbit
Born in the Year: 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
Rabbits are known in Chinese zodiac for their gentle and kind nature. People born in the rabbit year are quiet, elegant and responsible. Michael Jordan is the most famous person born during the Year of the Rabbit. While he played elegantly, he was anything but gentle.
A great travel program for Rabbits, gentle or otherwise, is France and Italy. There, one can immerse in the rich artistic traditions, great food, serene landscapes and local art scenes. For Rabbits seeking more thrill than the urban centers, both countries have beautiful beaches, coasts and mountains offering epic views.
Dragon
Born in the Year: 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2012
Dragons are powerful and charismatic within Chinese astrology. A child born during the dragon year is smart, honest, confident, intelligent, and enthusiastic leaders destined for success. Does that sound like Martin Luther King Jr. or Bruce Lee to you?
A good program for young Dragons is the Wonders of China program. This experience allows students to delve into the nation with warm hearted Chinese people in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Dragons will thrive in this dynamic environment, developing their leadership skills and animal husbandry skills.
For Dragons looking for an adventure, Iceland is an excellent fit. Travel here combines leadership challenges with outdoor activities, providing the thrill that matches the Dragon’s energetic spirit.
Snake
Born in the Year: 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013
Snakes, in Chinese zodiac, are wise and enigmatic. These zodiac animals are known for their intuition, intelligence and deep thinking. The Snake, in particular, is said to be highly insightful and adaptive, with a natural ability to understand complex situations. Taylor Swift is the quintessential Snake and mogul.
A great program for Snakes is the Cultural Immersion in Japan program. On this program, students can explore the rich history and culture of Japan, from traditional tea ceremonies to modern technological marvels. Snakes will appreciate the depth and complexity of Japanese culture, gaining new perspectives and insights.
Horse
Born in the Year: 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2014
Horses are one of the most important animals in Chinese culture, previously used for transportation in days of old. Within Chinese zodiac, Horses are strong, brave and independent. They are experts in logical thinking and love nature. Who loves nature more than Greta Thunberg?
The Horse is self-sacrificing and ambitious. A good nature program that fosters these characteristics is the Andes to Amazon program in Peru. There, students use their strength during hikes, while also participating in meaningful service.
Sheep (also known as Year of the Goat)
Born in the Year: 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2015
Sheep represent wealth within Chinese zodiac. They are considered mellow, calm and empathetic. Sheep tend to keep a low profile. Doesn’t really sound like Bill Gates or Steve Jobs does it?
Greece is the place for Sheep. Mellow, calm, gorgeous and historic, it’s the perfect destination for this sign.
For younger students in this age range, the Off the Map: Mongolia program gives plenty of time to contemplate life in a remote region of the world. College students who have sheep signs can take their time exploring Morocco in the Moroccan Wanderer college program.
Monkey
Born in the Year: 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2016
The Monkey king and/or queen is considered intelligent, lively, humorous and athletic. The Monkey is said to have a strong sense of teamwork.
A good program for students with this zodiac sign may be Soccer and Service in Costa Rica if they like soccer. If that sport isn’t their banana, they can use their trip to enjoy nature in the beautiful country as well.
Rooster
Born in the Year: 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2017
The Rooster is a sign of punctuality in Chinese zodiac. Ancient people also believe its crow could dispel bad luck and evil spirits. Beyoncé and Ariana Grande can do that, right?
Zodiac Roosters are good at making friends and adjusting to new environments, which may quickly make them travel pros. The Rooster in particular is known to be energetic, so students with this sign may love an adventurous program in a very friendly country like Fiji. The best bet for a Rooster who likes to travel may be the Big Fiji Explorer program. If you’re looking for something more on the beaten track, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia has you covered.
Dog
Born in the Year: 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2018
A Dog showing up at home is a sign of forthcoming fortune. People with the Dog Chinese zodiac are loyal, but may be cautious taking a longer period of time to accept new friends. The Dog is said to be very down-to-earth and good at working with people.
Those with the Dog zodiac sign may feel welcome in a place like South Korea where cultures, foods and tastes collide. Justin Bieber is a famous Dog.
Pig
Born in the Year: 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2019
People born during the Year of the Pig are trustworthy, compassionate and loyal with a strong sense of responsibility. Chinese zodiac Pigs are also said to be brave and to love family.
Students born during the Year of the Pig may do well in countries with artistic centers like Spain and the United States.
Western Astrology vs. Chinese zodiac
The difference between Western astrology and the Chinese zodiac is that the Western system repeats annually, is based on birth month and day, according to the Gregorian calendar and has 12 signs linked to constellations. On the other hand, Chinese zodiac repeats every 12 years, is based on birth year and has 12 animal signs linked to the lunar calendar.
In short, each Chinese zodiac animal has its own year, but each Western astrology sign has its own month.
Aspect |
Gregorian Calendar |
Chinese Lunar Calendar |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Solar cycle | Lunar cycles with solar adjustments |
| Year Length | 365 days (366 in a leap year) | 12 or 13 months, alternating between 29 and 30 days per month |
| Leap Year | Every 4 years | Adds a 13th month approximately every 3 years |
| Month Names | January, February, etc. | Numbered months, sometimes named |
| Start of Year | January 1 | Varies; usually between late January and mid-February |
| Common Usage | Worldwide | Mainly in China and other East Asian cultures |
| Historical Origins | Based on the Julian calendar reforms | Based on ancient Chinese astronomical observations |
| Festival Dates | Fixed annual dates | Variable; depends on lunar cycles |
What is the order of the Chinese zodiac?
The zodiac animals in order are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig.
What is Ben Ming Nian?
In Chinese astrology, Ben Ming Nian refers to bad luck during your zodiac year. Every 12 years, when it’s the year of your Chinese zodiac, you may face more challenges or bad luck. This is because you’re said to offend the God of Age. For example, if you were born in the Year of the Dragon, every 12th year is yours. During this year, you must be cautious and many Chinese people will wear red all year after Chinese New Year to remind them to be vigilant and make wise choices during their zodiac year.
Do’s for Incorporating the Chinese Zodiac Into Travel
Chinese Zodiac Compatibility in Travel
- Do pair your travel plans with friends based on Chinese zodiac compatibility for the most awesome and harmonious trip.
- Do consider the personality traits and birth months of fellow travelers for optimal enjoyment.
Travel Based on Chinese Astrology
- Do use the Chinese zodiac animal to find travel destinations that align with your zodiac year and personality traits.
- Do incorporate Chinese horoscope insights into your travel planning for a fulfilling experience.
- Do embrace the wisdom of Chinese culture and the lunar calendar to enhance your journey.
Aligning Travel with Zodiac Animals
- Do explore the natural habitat of zodiac animals in destinations like African safaris or Australian wildlife reserves.
- Do discover the rich history and traditions of the Chinese zodiac in travel experiences across Asia.
Ready to let the Chinese zodiac choose your next trip? Find your perfect destination and embark on a journey that aligns with your zodiac sign’s traits and preferences.
Chinese zodiac sign |
Born in the Year |
|---|---|
| Dragon | 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024, 2036 |
| Snake | 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025, 2037 |
| Horse | 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026, 2038 |
| Sheep | 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027, 2039 |
| Monkey | 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028, 2040 |
| Rooster | 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029, 2041 |
| Dog | 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030, 2042 |
| Pig | 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031, 2043 |
| Rat | 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020, 2032 |
| Ox | 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021, 2033 |
| Tiger | 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022, 2034 |
| Rabbit | 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023, 2035 |
Please note: Because of calendar differences, generally birthday dates in January or sometimes early February fall into the previous year’s animal sign.