Places to travel to in 2020


Getaways from Singapore
Image adapted from: @santoriniheritage and @kelly.beens

With the Year of the Rat soon dawning upon us, we’ve taken a quick look at 2020’s forecast – travel is certainly in everyone’s cards. Lady luck might be beaming down on some zodiac signs more than others, but whatever this year’s forecast is, we’re all psyched to pack our bags and hit the road.  

From hitting up Boracay’s beaches to Tokyo’s nightlife scene, here are 12 last-minute getaways from Singapore based on your Chinese zodiac sign:


1. Rat –  Phuket, Thailand


Getaway from Singapore - Phuket

Birth year: 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008
Travel style: Sociable but frugal. You’ll be looking for impromptu trips and will thoroughly enjoy a new destination you’ve never visited before. 

This is your year but with unexpected changes in your career and relationships, you don’t exactly have lady luck beaming down on you. With no thanks to the tai sui star, you might face roadblocks but can keep upbeat by travelling to the sunny coasts of Phuket, Thailand

Getaway from Singapore - Villa Sonata Phuket
Image credit: @villa_sonataphuket

But once you’re all partied out, all you need is a beach villa to lounge in. When in Thailand, even the most prime beachfront properties are reasonably priced – this speaks to your bargain hunter side. Take Villa Sonata Phuket: each villa comes with its own private pool and luxury finishings like a King bed, deep-soaking tub, and rainfall shower. 

Accomodation idea: Villa Sonata Phuket (from $178/person)

Get 9% Upsized Cashback from Expedia’s hotel stays via ShopBack from 18th-19th January 2020. 


2. Ox – Santorini, Greece


Getaways from Singapore - Santorini, Greece
Image credit: @4seasonsmansion

Birth year: 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009
Travel style: Planner, will have detailed itineraries. It’s not easy for you to leave your comfort zone but you enjoy all things luxurious. 

While you’re not exactly the type to leave everyday comfort, you’ll thoroughly enjoy a trip to a luxury island: Santorini, Greece, where the views are spectacular and the waters are a clear crystal blue. Your forecast speaks of an utterly amazing year, when romance gets extra emphasis. 

Four Seasons Mansion - Santorini
Image credit: @4seasonsmansion

To make the most of a romantic trip, head to a hilltop apartment like Four Seasons Mansion for unparalleled views – the entire ocean’s laid out in front of you. There’s plenty to do in Santorini too, where you can stroll through the scenic grounds of whitewashed walls and cobblestoned alleyways. 

Accomodation idea: Four Seasons Mansion (from $129/person)

Get 12% Double Cashback from 21st-22nd January 2020 or get 9% Upsized Cashback from 22nd-24th January 2020 Agoda via ShopBack.


3. Tiger – Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan


Getaways from Singapore - Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Image credit: @visitbishkek

Birth year: 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010
Travel style: Enjoys visiting destinations off the beaten path but needs a good mix between city life and outdoor scenery. Not a planner and can figure things as you go along. 

While other Singaporeans are partying it up in Bali or cafe-hopping in Melbourne, you’re one to holiday in a lesser-visited city – after all, as a Tiger, you’re more keen on visiting atypical destinations. And with that in mind, you’ll be wanting a holiday destination that’s equally edgy as it is safe.

Image credit: Airbnb

That’s when Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan comes into play. Not many spend their holidays in Central Asia but it’s their loss – Bishkek strikes the perfect balance between sweeping country views and CBD hustle. Take the chance to live like a local in one of their many Airbnbs, like this downtown apartment

Image credit: Airbnb

Accomodation idea: Airbnb in downtown Bishkek (from $40/night)

Get $10 off or $15 off with a min. spend of $125 from now-31st January 2020 via ShopBack. Valid for DBS/POSB Cardmembers only.  


4. Rabbit – Florence, Italy


Getaways from Singapore - Florence, Italy
Image credit: @mytravels_100

Birth year: 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011
Travel style: Your artsy side will enjoy a cultural destination – not necessarily one filled with art museums but a place with a rich history. Kudos if there’s good food and fashion too. 

Italy’s renowned for its rich culture, but Florence more so than any other cities. And since this year’s prediction isn’t looking great, in terms of personal and work-related matters, unwind by holidaying in Italy’s art capital. 

Florence
Image credit: Booking.com

When walking through the cobblestone alleyways, there’ll be age-old buildings and street artists around every corner. Stay in a boutique hotel – like most other flats near the Santa Maria Novella, the building has an old-charm but is decked out with modern facilities like a full-fledged kitchen and coffee machine. 

Accomodation idea: Ognissanti 67 (from $170/night)

Get 12% Double Cashback from 7th-15th January 2020 (7AM-7AM) or get 9% Upsized Cashback from 15th-18th January 2020 (7AM-7AM) from Booking.com via ShopBack. 


5. Dragon – Boracay, Philippines


Getaways from Singapore - Boracay, Philippines

Birth year: 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012
Travel style: Likes adventure and is a constant thrillseeker. Your itinerary is likely to be jam-packed with fun activities – you won’t be bumming around the hotel, that’s for sure. 

Not too far from Singapore, Boracay is the one beachside destination that’ll get your heart racing. Dragons, you’re in luck: 2020’s said to be an excellent year with lucky stars in your career and romance sectors. This island’s got an endless list of outdoor activities and you can celebrate by trying it all – everything from cliff diving to horizontal ziplining. 

Boracay
Image credit: @hennanregencyboracay

The exchange rate is on your side so you can afford to go all out with a 5-star hotel. It’s right along the beachfront but they’ve also got 3 massive pools for you to soak in – perhaps a little extra, but we’re certainly not complaining. 

Accomodation idea: Hennan Regency Resort & Spa (from $188/night)

Get 8% Upsized Cashback when booking hotels or get 1.5% Upsized Cashback when booking flights from 18th-21st January 2020 from Trip.com via ShopBack. You can also get 9% Upsized Cashback from hotels or 2% Double Cashback on 28th January 2020.


6. Snake – Dubai, UAE


Getaways from Singapore - Dubai, UAE

Birth year: 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013
Travel style: Enjoys intellectual pursuits while also genuinely interested in the destination. Has a taste for the finer things in life and will opt for upscale accommodation.

All born in the Year of the Snake will turn up their noses at bunk beds and shared bathrooms – it’s hard to stay in a hostel once you’ve gotten a taste of luxury. And with posh hotels and the world’s tallest building, there’s nowhere more suitable than Dubai for your next holiday. 

Dubai
Image credit: @firelake_dubai

While you’re inclined to splurge on things that make you happy, they’ve got plenty of grand hotels that won’t break the bank. This classy waterfront hotel is an easy 20-minute walk to the downtown area, where you can find the Dubai Mall and fountains – some of the rooms even of a stunning view of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. 

Accomodation idea: Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront (from $141/night)

Get 12% Double Cashback from 21st-22nd January 2020 (1AM-1AM) or 9% Upsized Cashback from 22nd-24th January 2020 (1AM-1AM) from Agoda via ShopBack. You can also get 10% Upsized Cashback on 29th January 2020 (1AM).*

*Cashback promotions exclude Japan. 


7. Horse – Shanghai, China


Getaways from Singapore - Shanghai, China
Image credit: @confucius.notes

Birth year: 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Travel style: Not one to solo travel, you’re happiest when surrounded with friends and family. Modern cities and beach resorts are what you’ve got on your radar but honestly, you’re happy anywhere as long as your travel itinerary is filled to the brim.

Chinese zodiac gurus might insist that 2020 isn’t your year, but you can still have fun in Shanghai. There’s something about modern, bustling cities that speak to you – and in Shanghai, it’s no different but with winding laneways and neighbourhood xiao long bao stalls for added charm. 

Shanghai
Image credit: The Waterhouse at South Bund

Since you’re likely to be travelling in a large group or with your extended family, look for a convenient hotel where it’s easy to meet each other whether it’s for brunch buffets or late-night suppers. This boutique hotel gives you privacy while also having ample spacious rooms to cram in everyone you know. 

Accomodation idea: The Waterhouse at South Bund (from $251/night)

Get 12% Double Cashback from 21st-22nd January 2020 (1AM-1AM) or 9% Upsized Cashback from 22nd-24th January 2020 (1AM-1AM) from Agoda via ShopBack. You can also get 10% Upsized Cashback on 29th January 2020 (1AM).*

*Cashback promotions exclude Japan. 


8. Goat – Jaipur, India


Getaways from Singapore - Jaipur, India
Image credit: @hannahconnie

Birth year: 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
Travel style: You’re quite easygoing and will generally enjoy wherever you’re at – whether it’s for a solo trip or a massive group tour. But one thing’s key: you’ll need a destination that’s not overtly touristy while also a place that’s rich in culture and history. 

You’ve got lucky stars in all aspects this year, crossing into your career, wealth, and romantic life. Take it as a chance to go to Jaipur, India. While Jaipur might not instantly be a destination you’d consider, it’s one that you’ll hold on to as a memorable holiday – pink palaces, historic forts, and a ton of street food are waiting. 

Jaipur
Image credit: @somaaniyaa

Since the whole city’s filled with stunning architectural buildings and intricate mosaic tiles, you don’t expect anything less from your hotel. This heritage hotel might cost a pretty penny, but is entirely worth it for its old-world charm. 

Accomodation idea: Umaid Mahal (from $583/night)

Get 9% Upsized Cashback from Expedia via ShopBack from 18th-19th January 2020. 


9. Monkey – Tokyo, Japan


Getaways from Singapore - Tokyo, Japan
Image credit: @rebecca.schoechlin

Birth year: 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
Travel style: Curious and will seek new experiences. Often gravitates towards the unknown and will thoroughly enjoy the “behind-the-scene” bits of many tourist attractions.

It’s a city like Tokyo where you can do whatever you like. From fancy omakase dinners to cosplaying conventions, it’s got a good mix of touristy things to do but also plenty of hidden nooks and crannies to explore. 2020 proves to be a decent year but you’ll still need to avoid all negative folks and take a break from the ongoing politics at work – a holiday to Tokyo will give you just that. 

Tokyo capsule hotel
Image credit: @lanylabooks

Tokyo’s not exactly known to have ample space, so instead, enjoy your holiday by spending your nights in a themed capsule hotel instead. This book-themed capsule hotel has a variety of dorms: mixed gender, single shared, or even single rooms for those seeking some private time. 

Accomodation idea: Book & Bed Tokyo Shinjuku (from $111/night)

Get 9% Triple Cashback from Hotels.com via ShopBack from 15th-17th January 2020 and 21st-23rd January 2020. 


10. Rooster – San Francisco, USA


Getaways from Singapore - San Francisco, USA
Image credit: @paul.agoncillo

Birth year: 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Travel style: No matter where you are, you’re likely to be in the centre of attention. You’re looking for fun and that’s exactly what you’ll get, whether it’s traipsing through a rainforest jungle or shopping in a designer outlet mall.

It’s not an easy weekend trip for sure, but San Francisco has everything you’ll need for a relaxing holiday. It’s entirely hakuna-matata, with a worry-free year ahead. Since San Francisco’s known for their sunny blue skies all year round, what better way to enjoy your holiday than with a cocktail at one of their many rooftop bars? 

San Francisco
Image credit: @hoteltritonsf

There’s a selection of classy hotels in downtown San Fran, but we’re eyeing this particular hotel for its stylish furnishings and convenient location – it’s near one of the world’s largest Chinatown. 

Hotel recommendation: Hotel Triton (from $165/night)

Get 9% Triple Cashback from Hotels.com via ShopBack from 15th-17th January 2020 and 21st-23rd January 2020. 


11. Dog – Gold Coast, Australia 


Getsways from Singapore - Gold Coast

Birth year: 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006
Travel style: Since you’re more people-oriented, you’ll place a heavier emphasis on the company you’re travelling with rather than the destination itself. Even better if your chosen destination is filled with unique experiences – to create memories that y’all can bond over. 

Nothing too wild for you, but a trip down under will leave a lasting impression. While many shrug off Melbourne and Sydney, thinking been there, done that, other cities like Gold Coast have plenty of new experiences. From theme parks to water sports, it’s a haven for those who are looking for an action-packed trip.  

Gold Coast
Image credit: @peterhaywood3452

For accomodation, consider Sea World Resort & Water Park – while it certainly provides a comfy bed, it also doubles up as a water theme park. 

Accomodation idea: Sea World Resort & Water Park (from $159/night) 

Get 12% Double Cashback from 21st-22nd January 2020 (1AM-1AM) from Agoda via ShopBack.*

*Cashback promotions exclude Japan. 


12. Pig – Johannesburg, South Africa 


Getaways from Singapore - Joannesburg, South Africa
Image credit: @kelly.beens

Birth year: 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007
Travel style: Flashy trips aren’t your style at all. You’d much rather be volunteering in Cambodia than partying it up in Las Vegas. Look for something that you find fulfilling and voila, your next travel destination is done and sorted.

To be honest, 2020 isn’t exactly a standout year for you but you’ll still be taking every opportunity to make meaningful breakthroughs. And that’s what you can do in your own free time too with a trip to Johannesburg

Johannesburg
Image credit: @sleepinafrica

This is especially apt for those with a passion for wildlife animals, since they’ve got plenty of volunteering programmes to help orphaned and injured wildlife. When here, stay at a local guesthouse – besides sweeping mountain views, it’s on the outskirts of the city so you’ll also get the true South African experience. 

Accomodation idea: Pablo House (from $134/night)

Get 9% Triple Cashback via ShopBack from Hotels.com 15th-17th January 2020 and 21st-23rd January 2020. 


Ushering in the Year of the Rat with ShopBack deals


We might already be prepping our reunion dinners and drawing crisp $2 notes from the bank, but it’s not too late to book a last-minute getaway. Since there’s a long weekend to look forward to every Chinese New Year, make the most of this year’s with a memorable holiday overseas

ShopBack deals
Image adapted from: ShopBack

Whether you’re a Pig who’s keen on exploring Johannesburg or a Dragon looking to lounge beachside in Boracay, you can score upsized cashback with ShopBack’s CNY travel deals. From travel platforms like Accorhotels to Expedia, you can score up to 13% Epic Cashback if you book your travel accom through ShopBack.

You can also collect Travel Presale Vouchers by using the ShopBack app on 20th Jan 2020 (3PM) to get $10 off* with Booking.com, Agoda, and Expedia.

*Min. spend of $100. 

ShopBack CNY 2020
Image adapted from: ShopBack

For a useful lifehack, install the ShopBack built-in browser button – simply login to your ShopBack account and shop as you would normally, and it helps find and apply the best promo codes within seconds. It doesn’t only include travel deals but also fashion and lifestyle promotions from sites like Qoo10, Taobao, iHerb, and ASOS. Find out more here

ShopBack
Takes just two clicks and it’s 100% free!
Image adapted from: ShopBack

You can also redeem $8 vouchers storewide on 21st January 2020 – simply use the ShopBack App and search for the God of Wealth. Hint: check their Instagram and Facebook to see where you can find him! 

Give “Share The Huat” for a try too and you might win up to $8,888. All you have to do is make a guess of 6 numbers (in any order) to share the prize pot. Those with 3 correct numbers will share the $2,020 prize pot.

Starting from now to 2 Feb 2020, make the most of ShopBack’s Chinese New Year cashback deals. It’s not only travel deals – you can also score dining, fashion & beauty, and lifestyle promos! 

Get travel cashback with ShopBack here


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