This article is courtesy of ZUJI Singapore.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Rat are intuitive and alert, and popular in social situations. Personal safety must be taken seriously when Rats travel overseas.
Lucky directions: Southeast, Northeast
Head to: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Head up north to Chiang Mai where visitors can enjoy hot air balloon rides overlooking paddy fields and mountainous landscapes. Take a trip to the Old City to visit any one of Chiang Mai’s 300 temples on offer – we recommend Wat Sri Suphan, Thailand’s only temple made entirely of silver. If you’re feeling a little more posh, check out the many beer buffets housed in cool upmarket areas, where all-you-can-drink beer is available from just S$5! Whoever said buffets were just reserved for food?
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Cow are persistent, yet honest and straightforward. They are contemplative before taking actions, and not easily affected by their surroundings.
Lucky directions: Southeast, South and North
Head to: Siem Reap, Cambodia
Rich in culture with incredible natural scenery to boot, it is a must to visit Siem Reap at least once in your life. Don’t miss out on the many temples, such as the famed Angkor Wat, which is known to be the world’s largest religious structure and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Other ruins such as Ta Som Temple and East Mebon Temple are equally fascinating. The Cambodian Landmine Museum and Relief Facility is another must-visit – give back to the less fortunate by donating to the museum’s fund for its newer school and dormitory for amputee children.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Tiger are powerful, independent, confident and brave.
Lucky directions: South, Southeast, East
Head to: Hanoi, Vietnam
With its tree-lined boulevards, lakes, parks, villas and temples, one might mistake Hanoi to be an Indonesian or French city given the many colonial influences around. To truly experience Vietnamese life, take a trip to the northern mountains to sample rural living. Enjoy a scenic helicopter ride to Halong Bay or indulge in a kayak or dive adventure. But a trip to Hanoi would not be complete without a visit to the Snake Village in Le Mat, where you can eat fresh organs and other parts, straight out of live snakes. Definitely for the brave Tigers indeed!
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Rabbit are tender, graceful and sensitive in nature, and usually particular about their quality of life.
Lucky directions: Southeast, South, East
Head to: Seoul, Korea
What better city to visit to celebrate your all-time favourite hobby – shopping – than Seoul? Apart from the common shopping districts such as Dongdaemun and Myeongdong, other districts that deserve honorary mentions include Apgujeong-dong. Stores selling upscale fashion products line the streets, catering to young trendsetters. Visitors can also head to Cheongdamdong – known as the most luxurious shopping area in Seoul (think S$17 for a cup of coffee). Nearby Garosu-gil is a narrow street filled with trendy cafes and shops and famed for its Europe-like surroundings.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Dragon are lively, intellectual and excitable.
Lucky directions: North, Northwest, West
Head to: Shanghai, China
A city with a mix of both the old and the new, it is easy to see why tourists are flocking to Shanghai, with historical relics lining its modern landscape. Thrill seekers would love the Oriental Pearl Radio & TV Tower, which offers a 360-degree view of the city. Art lovers will enjoy Shanghai’s growing arts scene at Moganshan Road, known for its Chinese contemporary art studios; and The Shanghai History Museum for everything on Chinese history. End your night with a cruise tour on the Huangpu River to see Shanghai’s night skyline.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Horse are dynamic, zealous and generous in nature.
Lucky directions: Northeast, Northwest and Southwest
Head to: New Delhi, India
Instead of the commonly visited, Taj Mahal, head to New Delhi where you can visit the Lotus Temple with its beautifully manicured gardens. Just 15 minutes away is the ISKCON Hare Krishna Temple, where the drums and chant of “Har-e-Krishna” can be heard. Additionally, the Akshardham Temple will amaze you with its elaborate architecture and detailing. Similar to Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, the India Gate is popular with both locals and tourists wanting to pay tribute to the lives lost during World War I.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Sheep have a special sensitivity to art and beauty, with a fondness for quiet living.
Lucky directions: East, South, Southeast
Head to: Port Douglas, Queensland, Australia
Located southeast of Queensland, Port Douglas is a tiny fishing village that packs a punch. Filled with trendy restaurants and a top-rated golf course, visitors can have a leisurely travel without the crowds. The town is famous for its beautiful beach, and is one of the only places in the Australian continent where visitors can get access to the Great Barrier Reef by boat. Thrill seekers can explore the Daintree Rainforest, where visitors can swing through the canopy on a zipline or discover secret swimming holes and beaches.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Snake are calm and sensitive, and also humorous at the same time.
Lucky directions: Northeast, South, Southwest
Head to: Taipei, Taiwan
It is said that Taipei is a city that never sleeps. Urban hikes through the night are common here, with Elephant Mountain giving you the best view of the city. Start your hike in the late afternoon to catch the sunset as well as an exceptional night-time view of the city. In the culture-rich towns Pingxi and Shifen, write wishes on lanterns and set them into the night sky for a moderate fee. Don’t forget to check out the world-renowned Shilin Night Market for amazing street food and great shopping finds!
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Monkey are the life of the party. They are flexible, versatile, and quick-witted in their daily lives.
Lucky directions: North, Northwest, West
Head to: Yogyakarta, Indonesia
With natural landscapes and lush greenery, Yogyakarta is more laidback than other Indonesian cities such as Jakarta and Bandung. Adrenaline junkies will love the outbound activities of rock climbing and tightrope walking offered at the Kalibiru National Park or body rafting at Kalisuci Cave. Nature lovers will find solace at the water-flowing mountains of Sewu Mountain Range. Make sure to visit the Borobudur, the world’s largest and greatest Buddhist temple, to catch the sunrise.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Rooster are independent, and dislikes having to rely on others.
Lucky directions: Southwest, Northwest, West
Head to: Maldives
Did you know that there are more uninhabited islands than there are inhabited ones in the island-country of the Maldives? If you fancy, you can book a whole private island all to yourself! Catch your own dinner during the night reef-fishing trips and grill your catch of the day under the stars. During the day, explore the different islands by flying on a sea plane, cycling or even on a cargo ship. If that’s not enticing enough, you can take a night swim alongside grey reef sharks – don’t worry, they are harmless.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Dog are not afraid of any difficulties.
Lucky directions: South, Southeast, East
Head to: Paro, Bhutan
While getting to Bhutan is a little tricky – Paro Airport is the sole international airport and only a handful of airlines are allowed to land there – it is well worth the journey! A must-visit in Paro Town is Taktsang Lhakhang, also known as The Tiger’s Nest Temple. A three-hour trek is mandatory to reach this iconic landmark located at an altitude of more than 3,100 metres. Cycle or trek through mountains and over lakes to explore tiny rural villages and catch a glimpse of exotic wildlife through the scenic hills for scenic fun. While Bhutan charges tourists a sustainable fee of up to US$250 per day, and US$40 for a visa, do not let that not hinder you from experiencing the happiest country in Asia and eighth happiest in the world.
Characteristics: Those born in the Year of the Pig are risk-averse but considerate, responsible, independent and optimistic.
Lucky directions: Southeast, Northeast
Head to: Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is said to be one of the best and most beautiful Japanese cities. From its shrines and temples – Nishi-Hongwan-ji Temple for its elaborate design and Kozan-ji Temple for its surrounding mountainous beauty – you can enjoy peace and serenity while basking in Japanese aesthetics. Home to not only the finest green tea, caffeine lovers too can head to some of the most famous coffee houses in downtown Kyoto (Nakagyō-ku). Hit the historic geisha town of Gion at night, with its array of bars, restaurants, and geisha houses. Of course, any trip to Kyoto would not be complete without a night’s stay in a machiya. These old townhouses, though fascinating and modern, are sadly becoming a rare sight due to the changing ways of Japanese living. To let you in on a secret, Kyoto is prettiest in autumn.