Where to travel in the Year of the Pig?

One of the thousands of ancient Chinese legends tells that two and a half thousand years ago, the Jade Emperor invited all the animals to his presence. Only twelve of them responded to his call. So, to honor their loyalty, the emperor named the years after them, in the order in which they arrived at the meeting. The rat, who used his cunning and speed, came first, and the pig – loving comfort and luxury, stopping every now and then to enjoy delicacies – came last. In the Chinese horoscope, characteristic animal traits are the domain of people born under a specific sign. So check out which animal is your patron and what awaits you this year!

In Asia, New Year is celebrated by every third person on this planet – it is celebrated not only in China but also in Japan, in Taiwan, Korea and Vietnam – traditionally begins on the first new moon in February. In 2019, this time fell on February 5, and this year was taken over by the Pig – which, although it does not enjoy the best reputation in the West, is considered a symbol of good luck, wealth and success in the East. The Pig favors bold and good decisions, and is also very interested in… finances! That is why in 2019 you will earn and spend more on your pleasures and rarely deny yourself anything – and can you imagine a greater joy than exotic travel? Therefore, regardless of whether you are a trustworthy Pig, a cheeky Monkey, a friendly Rabbit or a bold Dragon, check where you should go this year to stay in line with your Chinese zodiac sign.

Chile - View of Lake Pehoe, in Patagonia

RAT - CHILE AND EASTER ISLAND

I win thanks to my wits, strength is usually not a good solution

1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996

Clever, resourceful, quick-witted and curious, gifted with leadership skills and agile, a person born in the Year of the Rat needs changes. He loves to wander his own paths that lead to unconventional experiences and blaze new trails, which is why he can be found in the most exotic corners of the world. People born under this sign are extremely active and cannot sit still, and the routine of everyday life can even physically hurt them. In 2019, Rats will take stock of their lives so far and get rid of unnecessary ballast, thus gaining space for new experiences - and a solid portion of energy. And because they love diversity, a great idea will be trip to Chile – the world’s longest country, which offers a colourful range of possibilities to the adventurous traveller. Crossing the driest desert in the world, falling asleep by starlight, hiking at the foot of massive volcanoes, discovering the secrets of the statues on Easter Island or tasting salt from mountain lakes, the challenge-loving Rats will feel the thrill so precious to them!

Sample offer: Chile and Easter Island

Japan – Kyoto

BUFFALO – JAPAN

He who is afraid of losing already has one foot on the side of failure.

1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997

A steadfast and excellent planner, conscientious, honest, pragmatic and appreciating hard work – the astute Ox has an eye for detail. Although he easily establishes contacts with other people and builds strong bonds, he prefers to deal with his problems alone. He very rarely turns to anyone for help or advice, but he can be relied on like Zawisza. The Ox greatly values ​​the lack of rush, the opportunity to take care of his garden and contact with nature, contemplating its beauty and harmony. He suffers in crowds, and the need to take a stand in a stressful or embarrassing situation causes him to suffer. In 2019, he will experience many changes and attractions that will make this year one of the best in his life. One of them may be trip to Japan – is there any other country that will fully satisfy his love of harmony, beautiful gardens and nature, and at the same time, the buffalo's restraint and self-control will be most appropriate?

Example offer: All the colors of Japan 

The oldest desert in the world – Namib

TIGER – NAMIBIA

Life is an art practiced by few. Most merely vegetate

1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998

Restless, adventurous, fond of risk, competition and strong emotions – the Tiger always follows his passions. He can cope with everything, loves unplanned adventures with a surprising course and surprises, and tempting fate is in his nature. He can be addicted to adrenaline – he would give a few of his stripes for the opportunity to experience something unconventional! Lightning-fast, spontaneous decisions, escape from routine, and in addition the ability of all cats to land on all fours and get out of trouble unscathed – after a fall, the Tiger shakes off the dust and moves forward like a true hunter. The year 2019 will be very beneficial for him, because he will discover his true potential and learn tolerance, the lack of which sometimes makes him enemies. And the restless soul of the Tiger will find a challenge in a lonely expedition through the wilderness of Namibia, a country that can surprise and charm even the most adventurous person. Abandoned diamond mines, gigantic sand dunes, huge national parks, incredible desert and wild animals – Tiger will feel at home here!

Sample offer: Self-drive around Namibia

Iran - Mosque in Yazd

RABBIT - IRAN

Only those who do nothing make no mistakes

1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999

Cautious, gentle, diplomatic and fair, the Rabbit is a quiet person who avoids confrontation at all costs and approaches problems calmly. He also has a sophisticated, often ambiguous sense of humor and pays close attention to detail, and is in love with art - his element is painting, sculpture, music and theater. He likes to delve patiently and with commitment into the history and culture of the places he visits. Walks along side, hidden paths (after all, in another version of the translation of the Chinese zodiac signs, the Rabbit is a Cat!), sophisticated surroundings and friendly company: these are the things that the Rabbit feels comfortable with. 2019 will bring the Rabbit to discover previously unknown spheres of life - it could be a new job, a new love, new skills... and a new journey! The treasury of everything the Rabbit values ​​most - warm people, architectural wonders, a wealth of history and fascinating cultural secrets, is rarely visited Iran. Of all the animals in the zodiac, it is the Rabbit who will most appreciate the intricate mosaics of mosques, poetry read to the accompaniment of nightingales, endless cups of welcome tea, and the warm, hospitable smiles of Iranians.

Sample offer: The Mysteries of Iran and the Beaches of Oman

Indian state of Kerala - Kovalam beach

DRAGON - BHUTAN AND INDIA

Knowledge is power, but you won't gain true respect that way.

1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988

The mighty Dragon is the only mythical creature in the Chinese zodiac, the most important hero of Chinese legends, a strong, brave, idealistic leader who loves to be on the move. Witty and creative, he is a free spirit by nature, leading an unrestrained life. Knowing the amount of energy accumulated by the Dragon, it is no wonder that sometimes he breathes fire! A person born under this sign lives life to the fullest, does everything on a grand scale and follows great ideas, and being endowed with great charisma, attracts people like a magnet - especially since according to Chinese tradition, the Dragon stands guard over happiness and truth, and is also considered the chosen one of fate. In 2019, the Dragon will have to learn patience and tame his emotions - his trademark, which often causes him a lot of trouble. Working on himself and self-improvement will lead the Dragon to success that even Chinese astrologers have never dreamed of. And where is the best place to explore the intricacies of your own soul, discover the powers that lie dormant within you, and shape your character, if not in the privacy of Buddhist monasteries and temples? The mist-shrouded mountains of a mystical, inaccessible, and untouched Bhutan it is a natural hiding place for the Dragon, and the soft sands of the Indian Kerala will restore his peace after the hard work of working on himself.

Sample offer: Mysticism of Bhutan and the paradise beach in Kovalam

South Africa - lions in Kruger Park

SNAKE - RPA 

I forgive my enemies, but I never forget their names.

1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001

The Snake is a wise, intuitive thinker, considered the most mysterious animal among all the signs of the zodiac. Often, and with good reason, he is considered uncompromising, acting according to his own judgments. Very self-confident, somewhat distrustful of other people, focused on achieving goals and hating failure. However, if necessary, the Snake can be so charming that it is impossible to resist him! He is usually an artistic type, and at the same time - which only seems like a contradiction - he is well-organized and precise in his actions. He can appreciate peace and quiet, likes to surround himself with beautiful and precious objects, and he enjoys exploring new ideas, learning the history, culture and language of each place he visits. The New Year will be exceptionally good for him, perhaps even one of the best he has experienced so far, and it will be related to love and family. A joint vacation may even turn out to be the trip of a lifetime! Well-organized and responsible, and at the same time gifted with understanding the nature of things and people, he will feel great in a country that poses unusual challenges to the traveler, requiring him to look under the lining of apparent uniformity. South Africa, with its complicated history, diverse architecture, boutique hotels and stunning landscapes, will be a place that will unleash the natural inquisitiveness of the Snake. He will also enjoy the vast national parks, nature reserves and empty sandy beaches, where he will hide when he desires solitary contemplation, while the tiny monarchy of Eswatini will satisfy his need to learn secrets inaccessible to most people.

Sample offer: South Africa and the Kingdom of Swaziland

Thailand - Local Boat

HORSE - THAILAND

By letting go of who I am, I am able to become who I can be

1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002

The friendly and warm Horse is a herd animal that loves company, where it often plays first fiddle among the people gathered around it. It can often be found at various cultural events - concerts, performances, sports events - where it feels like a fish in water (or rather a horse on the steppe), charming the surroundings and bursting with enthusiasm. Eternally young in spirit, it approaches all endeavors with commitment and joy, does not shy away from adventures, but with all its openness it is also characterized by a love of freedom, so people who would like to put a bit of a bridle on it should be careful! The sociable Horse suffers in silence and monotony, but thrives in travel, indulging in physical activity and sports. According to the Chinese horoscope, 2019 belongs to the Horse, so it is worth making the most of it in every sphere of life! People born under this sign will feel great in Singapore, where they certainly won't complain about the lack of company, and in Thailand, whose sandy, golden beaches and clear waters create unlimited opportunities to practice a variety of sports, so beloved by the active Horse.

Sample offer: Singapore & Thailand Exclusive 

New Zealand – Lake Tekapo

SHEEP - NEW ZEALAND

Seize every day so that you don't regret anything on your deathbed

1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015

The Sheep is intelligent, thoughtful, calm and caring. Although it likes company, it does not want to be in the center of events, but rather observes the surroundings from a distance. Usually gentle, quiet and delicate, secretive and shy, it is filled with a strong sense of justice. It usually keeps to itself, living in the world of its fantasies, and does not easily let anyone into its interior. The zodiac Sheep, like its animal counterpart, does great surrounded by greenery, in the fresh air, and when traveling, it feels safer in proven company than traveling alone across continents. All the better - the coming year will bring new acquaintances (a quite pleasant flirtation is on the horizon) and a lot of support and kindness from old friends. So why not take the opportunity and travel to a country where there are four times more sheep than people? In New Zealand, the Sheep will feel at home, and the pristine air, magnificent mountains, crystal clear fjords and neat cities hiding treasures of art and architecture will satisfy the sheep's hunger for peace and harmony.

Sample offer: Visiting the land of Hobbits

Beach in Jamaica

MONKEY - JAMAICA

Creativity and good humor are the foundations of a happy life

1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004

The Monkey is a dynamic personality and definitely stands out from the crowd. She has a mischievous nature, likes good fun, parties, concerts, dancing and frolics, is witty, curious (some might even say – curious and nosy), loves to laugh and quickly learns about topics that intrigue her. Her sense of humor and jokes are often legendary, so it is impossible to get bored in the company of the Monkey. She is also characterized by extraordinary intelligence and cunning, so she copes well at work and does not complain about the lack of cash – of course, if she does not waste it on exclusive entertainment. The best way to hurt the Monkey is to ignore it and lecture it, so if you do not want to taste the proverbial monkey malice – play it safe! The independent and liberated Monkey in 2019 will face changes and revolutions, new challenges, opportunities and great successes. It's the perfect time to let yourself follow your dreams... and since the Monkey dreams of partying until dawn, endless sounds of music, champagne sparkling in glasses and sunsets in all the colors of the rainbow - the best place to travel will be Jamaica. A drink on the beach, blinding sun, a party to the rhythm of reggae and (how entertaining) the spirit of Bob Marley floating over the island: "Warm - nice - heaven - paradise! The Monkey thinks: Play me that!"

Sample offer: Miami Beaches and Dancing Jamaica

United Arab Emirates - Dubai

ROOSTER – UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Whoever wants to achieve mastery must first take care of his tools

1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005

The brave, confident, intelligent Rooster does not let himself be fooled and makes loud statements, which is why some consider him arrogant... and there is a hint of truth in this. In an exquisite environment, remaining the center of attention, when everyone listens to his stories and anecdotes, turning a blind eye to his tendency to brag, the Rooster feels like he is in his own backyard. He loves compliments, but can also sometimes behave capriciously and unpredictably, and also focus too much on his appearance. At the same time, he is sincere, honest to the point of naivety, brave and very hard-working - he treats his career as a priority. In 2019, his dreams will come true: he will start playing first fiddle, interesting offers will fall from everywhere, and success will make him dizzy. He will start something completely new in his life - it may be a job in a new industry, a new relationship or discovering a new continent. And where better will the Rooster feel, with his love of luxury, if not in the Emirates, where splendor and wealth are a value in themselves? The city of records called gold Dubai, Abu Dhabi with one of the most beautiful mosques in the world and Ras Al Khaimah, where tame falcons hover over the palace of the desert rulers – the Rooster will delight in basking in the oriental luxury scented with incense!

Sample offer: In the footsteps of the Three Emirates

Maldives - hotel and water houses

FEET - MALDIVES

No day is wasted if a person keeps working

1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

Like their true animal counterparts, a person born in the Year of the Dog is loyal, honest, friendly, caring and kind. Above all, they value peace, and focus on their friends, who can count on their help in any situation – few signs of the Chinese zodiac can boast such a far-reaching selflessness. They like to learn new things, which is why they are valued as a valuable employee. However, there is a flaw in this unshakable rock – the Dog can be pessimistic, suspicious and often anxious. Perhaps, in order to overcome their flaws, they explore mysterious phenomena and topics related to parapsychology, hoping to find the cause of their fears in them? In 2019, they will finally want someone to take care of them, so friends who do not rise to the occasion may fall out of favour. After a few years of intensive work, it will also be time for a real vacation! And since the Dog loses confidence in the face of unpredictable situations, it definitely prefers a quiet rest in the company of a few good friends or family than solo expeditions. It feels very good in the fresh air, where it can indulge in its favorite activities or relax undisturbed by crowds, which is why the golden sand beaches of the Maldives will be a dream place for it. Relaxation under a palm tree, bathing in clear water, walks in tropical gardens and fishing trips in good company - in such an environment the Dog will feel like in paradise.

Sample offer: Romantic in the Maldives

Madagascar – the chameleon

PIG – MADAGASCAR

With hard work you can achieve any goal

1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

2019 is the year of the Pig! She has never been so strong and has never made such bold decisions. Although this is somewhat contrary to her character - altruistic, nice, polite, somewhat gullible and naive - the Pig feels that this year she is only a step away from fulfilling her dreams. Money will flow to her in a wide stream, which will be very beneficial: although the Pig is a hard-working and persistent animal, consistently pursuing a set goal, distinguished by inner strength, entertainment takes a very important place in her life, which requires considerable resources. The Chinese horoscope has no doubts - the Pig loves luxury, comfort and beautiful objects. Fortunately for her, this year acquiring both will come with exceptional ease, so she will start enjoying life to the fullest, spending time and traveling. And because the Pig values ​​the natural surroundings above all else: forests, parks, seaside beaches and all kinds of plants, it will be drawn to areas where civilization has not yet managed to do too much damage. Maybe it will go to a trip to Madagascar, where you will happily frolic among tropical forests, baobabs, lemurs and chameleons, from time to time diving among the rainbow fish that inhabit the coral reef and discovering the charms of the numerous national parks here?

Sample offer: A tropical island at the end of the world